In the Bryan Singer-directed 'X-Men: Days of Future Past,' the ultimate X-Men ensemble fights a war for the survival of the species across two time periods. The beloved characters from the original X-Men film trilogy join forces with their younger selves from the past (X-Men: First Class) in order to change a major historical event and fight in an epic battle that could save our future.

Composer John Ottman - 'Cable Guy,' 'Gothika,' 'Incognito,' and Shane Black's 'Kiss Kiss Bang Bang,' et al - is back again collaborating with director and friend Bryan Singer. He's worked with him before on things like 'The Usual Suspects,' 'Apt Pupil,' 'X-Men 2,' and 'Superman Returns,' so they know each others wants and needs perfectly.

So here on 'X-Men: Days of Future Past' there are no surprises for either Singer or the listening public. Even managing to incorporate his original 'X2' theme into 'Hope (Xavier's Theme),' Ottman at least brings forth his very own unique interpretation for these characters musically.

On various tracks it's his use of a simplistic rhythmic bass with single piano notes that allow the story to unfold. Not a "loud" album of music, persay, but one that showcases thought-provoking ensemble pieces just perfectly. Oh, and we also get the wonderment that is both 'Time in a Bottle' (Jim Croce) and the always-great-to-hear 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face' from Roberta Flack.

Track Listing:
1. The Future - Main Titles
2. Time's Up (Original Version)
3. Hope (Xavier's Theme)
4. I Found Them
5. Saigon - Logan Arrives
6. Pentagon Plan - Sneaky Mystique
7. He Lost Everything
8. Springing Erik
9. How Was She?
10. All Those Voices
11. Paris Pandemonium
12. Contacting Raven
13. Rules of Time
14. Hat Rescue
15. Time's Up (Film Version)
16. The Attack Begins
17. Join Me
18. Do What You Were Made For
19. I Have Faith in You - Goodbyes
20. Welcome Back - End Titles
21. Time in a Bottle - Jim Croce
22. The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face - Roberta Flack

Reviewed by: Russell A. Trunk