The Theme From The Power Game – A Forgotten Gem That Still Hits Right
Let’s talk about The Theme From The Power Game by Cyril Stapleton, an album that feels like stepping into a time machine set for 1966. This isn’t your typical chart-topping pop record—it’s more of a soundtrack vibe, something you’d hear while watching some dramatic scene unfold on screen. It’s got this old-school charm, dripping with strings and brass, perfect for anyone who digs music tied to storytelling.
First off, let me just say—the title track, “The Theme From The Power Game,” is unforgettable. I mean, it’s literally the theme from The Power Game, so yeah, they nailed that one. But seriously, it’s got this bold, cinematic energy that makes you feel important, like you’re striding through London in a sharp suit or sneaking around New Zealand landscapes in slow motion. The orchestration is lush but not overdone; it hits all the right notes without trying too hard. You can almost picture black-and-white footage playing in your head as it rolls along. It’s the kind of tune that sticks because it doesn’t just sit there—it moves you.
Then there’s “Lil.” Oh man, what even is this track? Is it jazz? Is it lounge? Honestly, it kinda feels like both smashed together with a dash of mischief. There’s something playful yet mysterious about it, like it’s whispering secrets only cool cats from the ‘60s would understand. Every time I hear those smooth sax lines weaving in and out, I half expect to see someone lighting a cigarette dramatically in a dimly lit room. It’s short, sweet, and leaves you wanting more—which is probably why they included it twice on the album (yep, “Lil” shows up again at the end). Maybe it was their way of saying, "Hey, we know this is good."
One thing that stands out about this record is how polished it sounds, considering its age. Credit goes to whoever handled the lacquer cut—shoutout to H! For a 1966 release, it’s crisp enough to make modern listeners do a double take. Pye Records clearly knew what they were doing when they put this out in the UK and New Zealand. These weren’t big markets back then, but boy, did they get treated to some classy stuff.
Reflecting on The Theme From The Power Game, it strikes me how albums like this don’t really exist anymore. We live in a world where everything’s gotta be loud, flashy, or TikTok-friendly. Back then, though, artists could create these little worlds with sound, no lyrics needed. Listening to this now feels like finding a dusty book in an attic—sure, the cover might be faded, but inside lies magic waiting to be rediscovered.
And hey, here’s a random thought: if this album had been released today, people would probably use it as background music for Instagram reels about vintage fashion. Just saying.
