The score for Netflix's 'Beef' Season 2 stands out with its innovative and immersive approach, marking a significant milestone for composer Finneas.
A Bold Musical Approach
In the season's opening minutes, the score sets the tone with a 10-minute track, 'Cold Open,' skillfully balancing tranquility and tension. 'Music for Hospitals' offers a sinister, winding experience, while 'Vicious Thoughts' surprises with its beauty.
The soundtrack features 32 tracks spanning 90 minutes, with Finneas admitting more were left out. Described as 'tense but whimsical,' the score's originality mirrors the show's unique narrative style.
Inspiration from the 2010s
Finneas drew inspiration from 2010s millennial nostalgia, evident in Oscar Isaac's character Josh Martin, who admires Hot Chip and plays synth. Needle drops flow seamlessly into tracks like Yeah Yeah Yeahs' 'Heads Will Roll' and Father John Misty's 'Real Love Baby.'
'Sonny had written those into the screenplays, which I appreciated,' Finneas notes, referring to the show's creator Lee Sung Jin.
A New Narrative for Season 2
Season 2 shifts away from its predecessor's storyline, focusing on a fresh conflict involving characters played by Isaac and Carey Mulligan, and a younger couple portrayed by Charles Melton and Cailee Spaeny.
Finneas' scoring experience extends to projects like 'The Fallout,' 'Vengeance,' and 'Disclaimer,' but 'Beef' represents his most significant TV endeavor. He likens the learning process to adjusting to a jacuzzi's temperature, achieving focus by the later episodes.
Musical Cameos and Impact
Beyond scoring, Finneas makes a musical impact with 'What Was I Made For,' co-written with Billie Eilish, featured in Episode 2. He also appears as a gym-going version of himself in Episode 7, humorously embracing a self-deprecating role.
Reflecting on the project, Finneas highlights the importance of momentum in scenes. 'If you wrote another eight episodes, I could do it faster now,' he remarks, showcasing his growth throughout the series.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/music/music-features/finneas-interview-beef-season-two-score-1236609125/
