In the third episode of Central Park, Owen gives a speech honoring the service of one of the park’s retiring groundskeeper. The ceremony takes place at an annual high society event centered around outlandish headwear. There, Bitsy unleashes the next stage of her plan to buy the titular area; pitting the city leadership against the wealthy benefactors of the park. At the same time, Paige uses her investigative journalistic skills to get to the bottom of Bitsy’s devious plan and Molly has her first date with Kite Boy.
That’s a quick, non spoilery run down, but like last week, the focus is the music. Let’s take a look at the different numbers and hand out the episode three report card.
“Hat Luncheon”
“Momma’s Got This” written by Kate Anderson and Elyssa Samsel: B+
This is an inspiring piano heavy tune that matches well with Paige’s optimistic outlook towards hopefully breaking an important story. In a nice contrast, Cole and Molly try to be supportive but still ground her by pointing out her foibles. There’s a nice dance sequence with the family while riding the subway that provides something different than your usual breakdancers.
“Momma’s Got This Reprise” written by Kate Anderson and Elyssa Samsel: B
It begins at a slower pace than the original, which is used to help create the pizazz for the piece. Since Paige finds the info she’s looking for, she struts out accompanied by several descending glissandos. Mom proves she really does get this.
“Don’t Think About the Failures” written by Kate Anderson and Elyssa Samsel: A-
The number begins with a haunting high-pitched piano riff with a percussion heavy accompaniment to mimic Owens dread of giving his speech. It then transitions to rapping and singing as he expresses his insecurities and his game plan and techniques to overcome his apprehensions. The darker tone serves as a good precursor to the impending showdown between the Mayor’s office and the Park League.
“The Park is Mine” produced by Rafael Casal, written by Rafael Casal and Utkarsh Ambudkar: B+
The intro sets the stage for a Jets versus Sharks style rumble complete with fingers snapping between the Mayor’s bureaucrats and the Park League. The song’s bass line build via crescendo encapsulates the rising tension between the two sides until an epic food fight breaks out. It’s funny that the food hitting their targets are even on beat. Cacophonous horns that come in later add to the discord. There isn’t much lyrically except the insults that are slewed back and forth but they do play well for comedic effect.
Central Park wouldn’t be taking full advantage of its musical side if they didn’t make their songs available. You can find how to listen to the soundtrack on various platforms and visit the dedicated Central Park destination on Apple Music.
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