Search - Jocelyn Pook :: The Merchant of Venice

Medieval Atmosphere, Contrasting Textures

Miz Ellen | Bovine Universe | 10/08/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This soundtrack for a movie version of The Merchant of Venice makes for an interesting music album. Without actually having a note of authentic Elizabethan music on it, a medieval atmosphere is created. Contrasting styles and textures seem to immerse the listener and transport one to different places. In addition to the three tracks featuring countertenor Andreas Scholl, track number eight has words by Shakespeare sung by a delightful boy soprano, Ben Crawley.



My main gripe with this, as with most movie soundtracks, is that however well they serve the movie, they do not provide an "even" musical environment for the listener at home. I play music to relax or to match my mood. Because of the variety of styles and textures on this album, there is always something that strikes a jarring note so this CD does not get as much play on my home rotation."