Soundtrack of the Moment: Cheri
I was first introduced to Alexandre Desplat when Stephen Frears’, The Queen was released into theaters. I remember thinking in the theater how beautiful the score was and how it was unlike any I’m used to hearing. I’ve been a huge fan of his work ever since. Most would say he is too restrained, but that is why I love listening to his scores. I find his music so relaxing and comfortable. However, that doesn’t mean his music is boring; well to me it isn’t. His music is full of texture and color. Every time you listen to a track you find new layers and interesting sounds you may not have heard before. That is what I find most fascinating about his film scores. His scores are meticulously crafted and delicate, yet they still manage to bring the film to life. Very rare with most film scores today, usually filled with heavy brass melodies and percussion (not that I don’t like such film scores).
Desplat’s score to Frears’ latest film, Cheri, is a beauty. Here is a little preview to the wonderful score.
The first track “Cheri” is a fun and sprightly cue, with percussive elements and short bright notes giving it a playful feel.
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With “The Rose Acacia”, Desplat quickly introduces the main theme. I love the interesting rhythmic beats supporting the theme. I also love how Desplat shifts his themes. The strings are leading when suddenly, but subtly, they fall back and a soloist is featured or the percussion section takes front.
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What I love about Desplat’s themes are the supporting rhythms. Listen carefully to the repeating notes underlying the main theme in the cue “Flower Tunnel.” It gives the cue so much more texture and depth. The solo violin is wonderful in this.
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“To Biarritz” is the biggest piece of the soundtrack. It starts with a low sounding beat, then adds repeating strings and various solos, finally culminating into a beautiful grand chord. I can’t wait to hear this cue in the theater.
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It’s too bad I haven’t been able to see the film. Cheri premiered at the Berlin Film Festival back in February and will be in limited release here in the U.S. on June 26th. I usually try to watch the film first before buying the soundtrack, but I’m not too disappointed this time. Being such a Desplat fan, I had to have my hands on it the minute it was released.
If you’re in the mood to relax and relish in the beautiful strings of the London Symphony Orchestra, then Cheri is the score for you.
Check out the score over at Amazon.com.
