The BBC One season of three Sherlock Holmes films was the summer hit of 2010 with over 7.5m viewers watching the first episode. This contemporary adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic novel was created by Steven Moffat (Doctor Who, Coupling) and Mark Gatiss (The League of Gentlemen, Doctor Who) and the series stars Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes, Martin Freeman as Doctor Watson and Rupert Graves as Inspector Lestrade...

The music for series one of Sherlock was composed by David Arnold (Die Another Day, Casino Royale, Hot Fuzz, Paul, Little Britain) and Michael Price (The Inbetweeners Movie, Hot Fuzz, Paul) and encompasses a small orchestra, samples and soloists.

I couldn't help but be reminded of Hans Zimmer's music for the 2009 Sherlock Holmes movie (it's most obvious in tracks like 'The Game is On') which I found a little odd as this series is supposed to be set in modern day London but this score has a distinct Victorian feel to it.

The score lasts for almost 58 mins and is spread over 19 tracks. The opening theme is pretty impressive, the music of which is echoed throughout he album, but to be honest the while the entire score is interesting it's probably not enough for anyone other than fans of the show to add to their soundtrack collection.

While the music has been BAFTA and Emmy nominated (even winning an RTS Television Award), I couldn't help but look on this as generally full of atmospheric filler material. There are few strong themes or stand out moments that instantly catch your attention.

5

Darren Rea