After all these years, it's fun to hear "It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown"'s soundtrack in a new light. This year's expanded edition includes some enjoyable alternate versions of familiar favorites. In my opinion, these are three of the more interesting ones:
- Charlie Brown Theme (Alternate Reprise Take 2) (This excerpt is an amusing glimpse into the trial and error aspects of playing a new tune. I was surprised to hear composer Vince Guaraldi say, "That's not my key, John...")
- The Great Pumpkin Waltz (Alternate Take 2) (An unexpected use of celeste adds colorful chimes to the melody, making the flute-dominated tune sound even more innocent.)
- Linus And Lucy (Alternate Take 2) (This is the most frequently heard "Peanuts" theme music for many listeners. It might take your ears a little time to adjust to hearing woodwinds and guitar repeat the theme in places you wouldn't expect.)
