Nut Suite. Mini reviews of albums old and new. Minimum words. No fuss. No spoilers [?]. Occasional smugs.

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

JÓHANN JÓHANNSSON / The Miners' Hymns: United To Obtain The Just Reward Of Our Labour [2011]


Atmospheric Icelandic composer Jóhann Jóhannsson tackles the wonderful world of film score composing for Bill Morrison's documentary The Miner's Hymms.
Relying heavily on a brass ensemble which is incredibly powerful and moody it reminds me somewhat of Howard Shore's brooding David Cronenberg score work. It rumbles quietly in the corner rarely ever stepping into the light adding a haunting backdrop to the film. While it might be effective on film, it makes for a somewhat uninspired listen.
With long lulls of ambient drones, The Miner's Hymms soars with stark beauty when it is finally allowed to. A so-so affair from an otherwise brilliant musical act.

3 Durham Miners of yesteryear out of 5

Songs Of Note: They Being Dead Yet Speaketh; The Cause of Labour is the Hope of the World

No comments: