For better or for worse, no composer of the modern Hollywood era is more effective at creating rousingly patriotic music than James Horner — Courage Under Fire is as loud, explosive, and jingoistic as a Fourth of July fireworks celebration, a shameless exploitation of "support our troops" sentiment in the guise of a Hollywood soundtrack. Virtually interchangeable with previous Horner efforts like Glory and Clear and Present Danger, Courage Under Fire balances orchestral elements with electronics to create sweeping, melodramatic melodies that yank the heartstrings with all their might — tear-jerking stuff, especially if you mourn the death of subtlety and nuance.