Brian Tyler “Dragonball Evolution” scoring session (2009)

“Dragonball Evolution” scoring session (2009)

I bet I know what you’re thinking: WHAT? They made a live-action movie based on Dragon Ball? Where, when and how can I get it???

Not.so.fast.

There’s a reason you likely haven’t heard of this film (and if you have seen it, you know what I’m about to say): it SUCKS. Badly. I mean REALLY badly. So badly that Akira Toriyama, the creator of the Dragon Ball manga, practically disowned the film. Yea, that’s pretty bad.

Based on the titular Dragon Ball manga, the film follows Goku and Bulma as they travel together to gather the seven Dragon Balls in a race to stop the demon Lord Piccolo before he can gather them first. Several of the major characters from the series are encountered: Goku, Chi-Chi, Bulma, Master Roshi, Piccolo and Yamcha. Shen Long, the legendary wish-granting dragon who only appears when the seven dragon balls are gathered, makes an appearance as well.

Despite the film being an overwhelming failure, there is one bright spot: the musical score, composed and conducted by Brian Tyler. The score was very well received and positively compared to other contemporary film scores.

I found this short clip from a recording session for the film uploaded in February of 2009. What I love about Brian Tyler’s musical style, is that he doesn’t completely abandon classical conventions, the way some 21st century composers do. Instead, he works to blend the traditional orchestral sound with more “modern” themes using synthesizers and electronic instruments. He essentially goes for the best of both worlds and so far he has nailed it every time.

Enjoy this look at the recording of the Dragonball Evolution soundtrack, and if you’re interested in the series, try the Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z anime instead of this film.

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