Monty Python unreleased TV soundtrack released

In collaboration with Joel Martin (Quiet Village), the de Wolfe Music Library are compiling (with love) some rare slices of original sound track ephemera from their 100 year-old vaults. This is the third in the de Wolfe re-issue series, this time collecting unreleased incidental music from the legendary and cult BBC series 'Monty Python's Flying Circus'.

To Monty Python fans everywhere, "The Liberty Bell" is like a secret handshake that's actually known by everyone. When you hear the bell toll at the beginning, no matter where or when the performance, you immediately smile and think of "Monty Python's Flying Circus." What else could it be? To most of us, the march doesn't end properly unless there's a good splat. It's a silly blend of tradition and absurdity that is fitting for a television show in which knights in armor wielded rubber chickens, pepperpot women would suddenly explode, and silly walks had their own ministry.

Although "The Liberty Bell" is well known, other Python music has remained a near-mystery. One of the common questions seen on the Monty Python newsgroup over the years is, "Where did the music come from?" The answer, De Wolfe, doesn't usually satisfy those who want to know more. Until now, fans haven't had access to these recordings.

Listening to the "Flying Circus" cues is a delight. Each sketch was enhanced by the background music. On its own, the music is innocent enough, but to a Monty Python fan there's a hidden layer of comedy in each track. Sometimes the music simply set up the atmosphere. Other times it was an integral part of the script. And at other times, it was a constant straight man element in an otherwise illogical display.

What sounds like a traditional regal fanfare is actually from a ludicrous "Elizabeth L" sketch with a queen in drag, courtiers on motorized bicycles, reversed letters, and a false film director. Only Monty Python could make it work.

"Blackmail" was one of the first "Flying Circus" sketches I ever saw. The music gave this bizarre game show an air of believability. Listening now, it brings back the humor and surprise of the sketch. Its concept is simple but ridiculous, only made more so by the enthusiastic commentary.

Years later, I can still imitate the "It's the Mind" music and am prone to blurting out "Tonight, on 'It's the Mind,' we examine the phenomenon of déjà vu." The music is stuck in my brain for instant association.


And what the Python's themsleves think about this new compilation:

"De Wolfe was the music track to Monty Python. They always seem to have the right music for the right occasion." Michael Palin

"We couldn't keep de Wolfe away from the door. They kept offering us great music at ridiculously low prices. We never asked where they got it your honour." Terry Gilliam

"The only record you can play 'what sketch was that?' with....A totally brilliant and inspired con." Terry Jones