Sony Classical release Craig Armstrong's score to Thomas Vinterberg adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s classic love story Far from the Madding Crowd. The movie tells the story of independent and headstrong Bathsheba Everdene, who attracts three very different suitors: Gabriel Oak, a sheep farmer, captivated by her fetching willfulness; Frank Troy, a handsome and reckless Sergeant; and William Boldwood, a prosperous and mature bachelor. This timeless story of Bathsheba's choices and passions explores the nature of relationships and love - as well as the human ability to overcome hardships through resilience and perseverance...

Craig Armstrong’s score for Far from the Madding Crowd is another one of those soundtracks that is timeless. The music is almost classical in nature and certainly one that is both heartbreakingly beautiful and memorable.

The only tracks that I wasn't so keen on, but I'm sure they will be welcomed by fans of the movie, were the church hymns and the traditional British ballads. These took me out of the environment that Armstrong had lovingly created with his music and had me reaching for the skip button on subsequent listens.

The album contains 23 tracks (53 min, 50 mins) and while there are many beautiful themes woven throughout, I challenge you to not instantly fall in love with the score's main love theme.

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Darren Rea