Milan Records releases the soundtrack for Minamata with music by Ryuichi Sakamoto. The film, directed by Andrew Levitas, is based on true events and follows an American photographer as he documents the effects of mercury poisoning on a coastal town in Japan. Also included within the 22-track (59 min, 10 sec) album is the film’s end credit song 'One Single Voice,' which is performed by Welsh mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins...

There are perhaps a few too many background atmospheric cues ('Hidden Data' being the most notable track) on Ryuichi Sakamoto's score for Minamata. And while these help to build the tension in the film, they sound a little bland in isolation. Having said that, there are other atmospheric tracks ('Chisso Co.,' for example) that get under your skin with slow building themes.

On balance, it's a subtle, reflective score that captures the essence of the movie. And, while it might not be an essential purchase, those that enjoy low key, melancholic scores will find much to enjoy here.

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Darren Rea