SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 7:33 Min.
First recorded for Star Trek’s unsold first pilot, “The Cage,” in 1965, the Alexander Courage themes contained in this suite can be heard in Star Trek’s first-season two-parter, “The Menagerie, Parts I & II” in 1966. Specifically, the suite helps narrate U.S.S. Enterprise Captain Christopher Pike’s (Jeffery Hunter) illusionary ordeal on the planet, Talos IV. This specific suite was recorded by the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra for 1996’s Symphonic Star Trek instrumental album.
REVIEW:
The rejected “Cage” was reportedly deemed far too ‘cerebral’ by NBC television executives. Listening to this somewhat haunting suite, one can grasp why its unusual sound would have been far ahead of its time for 1965 American television. This “Cage” blends Star Trek’s original theme with classy instrumental flavors shifting from exotic to mysterious while still anchored to a sense of sci-fi/fantasy. Ethereally replicated by Erich Kunzel & the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, this rare track is a keepsake, not for only long-time Star Trek fans, but for any sci-fi playlist.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8½ Stars
