Batman cover

Batman

Danny Elfman · 1989

54 min · 21 tracks · new wave · ska

A dark orchestral soundscape that blends grandiosity with haunting motifs, embodying the spirit of Gotham City.

Batman is an album by Danny Elfman, released in 1989. A dark orchestral soundscape that blends grandiosity with haunting motifs, embodying the spirit of Gotham City. The 'Batman' score is significant for its influence on film music, establishing a template for superhero soundtracks that followed. It received critical acclaim, notably being nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Composition, and has often been cited as a prime example of how music can enhance cinematic storytelling. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Batman sound like?

A dark orchestral soundscape that blends grandiosity with haunting motifs, embodying the spirit of Gotham City. Rooted in new wave and ska.

What makes Batman by Danny Elfman notable?

The 'Batman' score is significant for its influence on film music, establishing a template for superhero soundtracks that followed. It received critical acclaim, notably being nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Composition, and has often been cited as a prime example of how music can enhance cinematic storytelling. When Danny Elfman released 'Batman' in 1989, he was already an established composer known for his work with Oingo Boingo and film scores like 'Pee-wee's Big Adventure'. This score marked a pivotal moment in his career, as it solidified his reputation as a leading composer for blockbuster films and introduced his unique sound to a wider audience.

How many songs are on Batman?

Batman has 21 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

Tracklist

21 tracks·54:55

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Batman Theme Standout 2:38
  • 2 Roof Fight 1:21
  • 3 First Confrontation 4:45
  • 4 Kitchen, Surgery, Face‐off 3:09
  • 5 Flowers 1:51
  • 6 Clown Attack 1:45
  • 7 Batman to the Rescue 3:57
  • 8 Roasted Dude 1:01
  • 9 Photos / Beautiful Dreamer 2:30
  • 10 Descent Into Mystery 1:32
  • 11 The Bat Cave 2:34
  • 12 The Joker’s Poem 0:58
  • 13 Childhood Remembered 2:42
  • 14 Love Theme 1:29
  • 15 Charge of the Batmobile Standout 1:43
  • 16 Attack of the Batwing 4:46
  • 17 Up the Cathedral 5:06
  • 18 Waltz to the Death Standout 3:56
  • 19 The Final Confrontation 3:49
  • 20 Finale 1:46
  • 21 Batman Theme (reprise) 1:27

Release Date

January 1, 1989

Genre

new wave, ska

More albums in ska

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

54 min 55 sec