Tyler Bates’ scores for the John Wick film series have become as iconic as the films themselves. From the very first movie, Bates established a unique and powerful musical identity, and the John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum soundtrack not only continues this legacy but elevates it to new heights. For fans and newcomers alike, let’s explore what makes this soundtrack the best Wick score yet and a standout in the action movie genre.
The Signature Sound of John Wick: Tyler Bates’ Expertise
Tyler Bates has masterfully crafted the sonic landscape of the John Wick universe. His signature style blends dark, brooding electronics with a raw, almost industrial edge. This isn’t your typical orchestral action score; Bates delves into the depths of electronic music, creating a sound that is both modern and timelessly cool. A key element is the John Wick theme itself – a simple, recognizable motif that perfectly captures the character’s stoic intensity and underlying menace. This theme, interwoven throughout the scores, becomes synonymous with the Baba Yaga’s presence. Having scored the previous two installments, Bates had a solid foundation, but the anticipation was high to see how he would evolve the music for Chapter 3.
Parabellum’s Sonic Arsenal: Track-by-Track Highlights
The Parabellum soundtrack wastes no time immersing you back into the world of assassins and high-stakes action.
“Parabellum (Opening Titles)”: Setting the Stage
The opening track, “Parabellum (Opening Titles),” is a masterclass in setting tone. Low, pulsating electronic percussion immediately establishes the film’s dark atmosphere. Within seconds, the familiar John Wick musical world unfolds, drawing listeners in with its unique blend of gloom and sonic intensity. Around the midpoint, an electric guitar cuts through, delivering a powerful, albeit brief, rendition of Wick’s theme. This short but impactful piece serves as a perfect re-introduction, hinting at both the familiar and the new thematic elements to come.
“Excomunicado”: Bridging the Old and New
“Excomunicado” functions as a thematic bridge, skillfully merging the classic John Wick theme with fresh musical ideas. The track opens with a recurring, almost video game-esque melody, reminiscent of classic chiptune scores. This new motif is intriguing, but it quickly gives way to the return of the electric guitar, which delivers a dramatic and commanding version of Wick’s theme. The track effectively blends the new and the established, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience.
“He Shot My Dog” and “Grand Central Station”: Action Intensifies
The pace ramps up significantly with “He Shot My Dog.” This track is a burst of electronic and percussive energy, shifting the mood from pure darkness to a more urgent, action-driven drama. Strings briefly emerge before the track explodes into a rapid tempo, with percussion driving the tension to its peak. “Grand Central Station” continues this high-octane energy. This slightly longer track maintains the tension and excitement while adding a layer of sinister undertones, making for a thrilling two-minute ride.
“Cycle Samurais” and “Winter At The Continental”: New Themes Emerge
“Cycle Samurais” is a standout action setpiece. Electronics take center stage, combined with relentless percussion and a brooding undercurrent, creating a truly edge-of-your-seat experience. This four-minute track is where the new thematic directions for Chapter 3 become most apparent, with the video game-inspired electronics becoming more prominent. “Winter At The Continental” initially follows a similar path before venturing into uncharted territory. It introduces an electronics-heavy interpretation of what sounds like classical music. This unexpected twist adds a layer of sophistication and intrigue, hinting at deeper, perhaps more refined, elements within the score.
“Zero Vs Wick” and “Really Pissed Off (End Credits)”: The Climax
“Zero Vs Wick” delivers dramatic intensity, heavily featuring the signature Wick electric guitar sound. At times, echoes of Bates’ Punisher scores seem to surface, adding another layer of familiarity for fans of his work. The John Wick theme reappears sporadically amidst the electronic battle, adding thematic weight to the action. The album culminates in “Really Pissed Off (End Credits).” This standout end credits piece brilliantly fuses the new and original John Wick themes for a final, dramatic flourish. As the electric guitar swells, the music takes on a victorious, almost heroic quality, a fascinating tonal shift that leaves a lasting impression.
The Verdict: The Best John Wick Score To Date
Tyler Bates’ score for John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum is a triumph. It not only lives up to the high bar set by the previous scores but surpasses them. Bates masterfully expands the musical world of John Wick, introducing new and compelling themes while staying true to the established sonic identity. The blend of electronics, dark atmosphere, and high-energy action cues creates a truly immersive and unforgettable listening experience. The Parabellum soundtrack is a must-listen for fans of the franchise, film score enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a shot of adrenaline-pumping music. Dive into the John Wick soundtrack and experience the music that fuels the Baba Yaga’s relentless journey.
Standout Cue: “Really Pissed Off (End Credits)”
