2. Carnivàle (Jeff Beal)
Carnivàle tops many lists of shows that should never have been cancelled. A masterclass in building a show's mythology, its cancellation came just as the series reached its peak. Low viewing figures sadly brought an end to an outstanding show that featured one of the most powerful and experimental scores in television's history. The compositions themselves, from the opening and closing themes to Justin's terrifying horn-led piece, are utterly memorable and linger long after the show ends. But what is particularly fascinating about Carnivàle's soundtrack is the way it is used to make allusions and heighten the mysteries and enigmatic nature of the series. Characters with apparently few connections to one another have comparable themes to one another, designed to provide clues as to possible future revelations about hidden narrative links. The two worlds (Justin's church and the funfair) are treated differently in the score, with the carnival featuring music more suitably circus-like and the church being soundtracked by deeper, more mournful tones. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wa7VUQqGku8 Jeff Beal's soundtrack has arguably outlived its show. It's truly innovative, completely experimental and thoroughly captivating throughout the entirety of the series.