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I've been thinking a lot about the soundtracks of TV shows lately, and I have to admit that I've developed a bit of a soft spot for the original score of Hacks. The show, which premiered in 2021 and stars Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder, follows the story of a legendary comedy writer who teams up with a young comedienne from a working-class background. It's a hilarious and poignant exploration of identity, class, and the struggles of making it in the entertainment industry - and it's largely elevated by the work of its composer, David Stal.

Understated Brilliance

David Stal's score for Hacks Seasons 2-5 is deceptively simple at first glance. It's a subtle, jazz-inflected soundscape that never draws attention away from the show's excellent writing and performances. But the more I listened to the soundtrack, the more I realized just how deftly Stal is handling the emotional arc of the show. He seamlessly transitions from wry, observational humor to poignant moments of introspection, often within the space of a single scene. It's a delicate balancing act, and one that Stal executes with remarkable finesse.

The Genius of Collaboration

One of the things that struck me about the Hacks soundtrack is the way in which it seems to capture the spirit of collaboration that defines the show. The score is often more about the relationships between characters than it is about individual personalities - and it's a testament to Stal's skill that he's able to convey the nuances of these relationships through music. It's a collaborative process, of course, and one that involves not just Stal himself, but also Carlos Rafael Rivera, who co-composed the score. Together, they've created something truly special - a soundtrack that feels at once of a piece with the show, and yet also uniquely its own thing.

David Stal's Unconventional Approach

One thing that strikes me about David Stal's scores for Hacks is his willingness to break away from convention. He doesn't rely on tired tropes or familiar formulas; instead, he crafts soundtracks that feel fresh and exciting. Take the way he uses percussion to punctuate key moments in the show – it's not your typical 'dramatic music' fare, but rather a more nuanced approach that adds depth and emotion to the scene. It's this willingness to take risks that sets Stal apart from other composers, and it's something that I think really pays off in the end.

The Impact of Stal's Scores on the Show's Tone

Stal's scores also have a huge impact on the tone of the show. I mean, Hacks is a comedy, but it's also a show that doesn't shy away from darker themes – and it's here that Stal's music really comes into its own. His use of leitmotifs, for example, helps to create a sense of continuity and cohesion across different episodes, while his score also does a great job of amplifying the show's humor and wit. It's a delicate balance to strike, but Stal pulls it off with ease.

Lessons for Other Composers (and Showrunners)

If I'm being completely honest, I think one of the things that really sets Stal's scores apart is his ability to think outside the box. He's not afraid to experiment and try new things, which is something that I think a lot of other composers (and showrunners, for that matter) could learn from. I mean, think about it – how many times have you seen a show that uses the same old music cues and formulas over and over again? It's boring, right? Stal's scores are the opposite of boring – they're vibrant, they're energetic, and they add a whole new level of depth and emotion to the show.

David Stal's Scores: A for TV

Looking back on Seasons 2-5 of Hacks, it's clear that David Stal's scores were a huge part of what made the show so special. His music is more than just background noise – it's a vital component of the show's DNA, and it helps to bring the characters and storylines to life in a way that's both authentic and compelling. If you haven't checked out Stal's scores yet, I highly recommend giving them a listen. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

Final Thoughts