Ennio Morricone – The Mission (1986) [2003 Remaster] [SACD / Virgin – SACDV 2402]

Ennio Morricone - The Mission (1986) [2003 Remaster]

Title: Ennio Morricone – The Mission (1986) [2003 Remaster]
Genre: Soundtrack
Format: SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

Ennio Morricone’s Academy Award-nominated score captures the conflict between 18th-century Jesuit missionaries trying to convert the native Indians, and the slavers who want to destroy them. In keeping with the serious subject matter and epic scope of Roland Joffé’s film, the score is by turns grave, lyrical, and tense. Ever inventive, Morricone mixes liturgical chorales, native drumming, and Spanish-influenced guitars, often in the very same track, to capture the drama of the culture clash. His trademark lyricism also comes through, notably in the beautiful themes for “Gabriel’s Oboe” and “The Mission.” Not as over-the-top as his well-known spaghetti Western scores, The Mission shows Morricone at his dramatic best.

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1 min read

Ennio Morricone and Dulce Pontes – Focus (2003) [SACD / Universal – 980 829-3]

Ennio Morricone and Dulce Pontes - Focus (2003)

Title: Ennio Morricone and Dulce Pontes – Focus (2003)
Genre: Jazz
Format: MCH SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

Focus, a 2003 album, features Portuguese singer Dulce Pontes interpreting film composer Ennio Morricone’s cinematic themes. Pontes transforms Morricone’s music into songs in English, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese with epic grandeur. Her potent yet subtle voice blends gracefully, capturing the nuances and beauty of Morricone’s eccentric style. Standout tracks include the English song “Your Love” from Once Upon a Time in the West and the Brazilian-inflected “Nosso Mar.” Her finest moment is “No Ano Que Vem,” inspired by Jerusalem and set to upbeat music from Maddalena. Focus is a superb achievement in Pontes’ career, matching Morricone’s classical stature. The album showcases her ability to elevate Morricone’s compositions with breathtaking vocal artistry.

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1 min read