"In 1972, a crack commando unit was sent to prison by a military court for a crime they didn't commit. These men promptly escaped from a maximum security stockade to the Los Angeles underground. Today, still wanted by the government, they survive as soldiers of fortune. If you have a problem, if no one else can help, and if you can find them, maybe you can hire... The A-Team."
If you can't understand the greatness of a television introductory theme that has an introduction of its own, then I don't know what you're doing at this blog. The spoken word preface to The A-Team theme perfectly summarizes not only the premise of the show but the no nonsense way in which the A-Team completed their work (ok, there was plenty of nonsense - but it sounded good). The rolling drum cadence combined with the helicopter blades turning creates a sense of foreboding and tension that this group will go to any length to achieve its goals...with military precision. As the cadence and voice over build to a stirring crescendo, the title of the show is emblazoned on the screen with gun shots. All before the song itself kicks in!
From this point, we're off on an excellent instrumental work calling to mind the classic American military marches of yesteryear. Complimenting the moving strings and horns is some great foley work. Its actually amazing how well the sound effects improve upon the already great score.
The rousing main melody then changes chord to a similar, though somewhat distant, tune. Leading into the pure 80s rock portion of the song. Though its a stark contrast from the original, stirring horns; the Foreigner-lite guitar and drum work lets the viewer know that even though these guys aren't your grandpa's military men. This part of the song is also well paired with the clips of Dwight Schultz's "Howling Mad" Murdock - the especially crazy one of the group.
Then with the crash of a door we're starting to be lead back to the original refrain but not before being introduced to Mr. T's B.A. Baracus. Evoking an almost Blacksploitation feel, the song is again able to relay the personality of the individual characters without having to tell us directly. Of course, the song really says nothing of his mastery of mechanics but does get across that this guy has a "Bad Attitude."
And finally the conclusion to our song - peppered with the car crashes and helicopters that would endear this show to its fans. I don't know about you, but I'm ready to enlist in the army; get court martialed; escape from a maximum security prison; and become a solider of fortune. How about you?
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