Varèse Sarabande Records releases Tim Jones's score for the, now cancelled, TV show Chuck. The series was a beloved high-concept action comedy that followed Chuck Bartowski as the Buy More computer geek turned secret agent. When Chuck unwittingly downloads a database of government information and deadly fighting skills into his head, he becomes the CIA's most vital secret...

Chuck ran for five seasons (2007-2012) and, given its basic premise, that of secret agents, it's no surprise to learn that a lot of the music in the show paid homage to films like the James Bond series.

The opening track 'Bryce Larkin Super Spy' reminded me of Éric Serra's electronic score for Goldeneye (1995); whilst 'Chuck and Sarah The Beginning' houses a theme that wouldn't have been out of place in one of John Barry's epic Bond scores.

Tim Jones delivers some impressive themes across this album's 20 tracks (1 hr, 35 min, 58 sec). However, for those picking up the CD, then you'll be disappointed to learn that you'll be missing out on two additional Jeffster tracks which are only available on the digital download album... or maybe Jeffster's warblings aren't to your taste. You'll also be missing out on two more Jones tracks, 'Morgan Big Mike and the Gang' and 'Chuck vs. Rafe'. The extra four tracks come in at just shy of 20 min (so if you're buying the CD album you'll only be getting 16 tracks - 1 hr, 16 min, 36 sec).

In total, there are five songs ('Take On Me (Orchestral Version)' - which actually isn't orchestrated, but Jeffster murders it, as expected; ' Fortunate Son'; and 'Fat Bottom Girls'). On the digital album you also get 'Leaving On a Jet Plane' (possibly the only half decent Jeffster track) and 'Mr. Roboto'.

For Chuck fans, this is an essential purchase. Likewise, those that love the secret agent / spy genre will find much to appreciate here.

8

Darren Rea