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Edward Artemiev — The Odyssey
(Electroshock Records ELCD 008, 1998, CD)

by Peter Thelen, Published 1999-04-01

The Odyssey Cover art

While the musical interpretations of Homer’s engaging tale are too numerous to count, The Odyssey in this case is the soundtrack to a motion picture directed by Andrei Konchalovsky, starring Armand Assante, Christopher Lee, Bernadette Peters, Vanessa Williams, Eric Roberts, and others. Artemiev is a respected composer in Russia, working in film and in experimental and electro-acoustic fields. If his name sounds familiar to Exposé readers, it’s probably because we’ve regularly reviewed the releases of his son, Artemiy. This film score captures all the emotion and grandeur of this epic tale of ancient Greece, utilizing the power of a full orchestra and all the dynamic range therein. The music is strong enough to stand on its own, although the story it attempts to convey will not be obvious to the listener, which in a sense allows a wider degree of interpretation. The overall composition consists of two dozen segments that may as well be 50 or 60 — things are constantly changing and unfolding throughout, as good film music should. Artemiev skillfully brings to bear a multitude of classical, experimental, ancient folk, and minimalist ideals that bring the drama and suspense of this timeless tale to life. Fans of classical and film music will find much here to enjoy.

Filed under: New releases, Issue 17, 1998 releases

Related artist(s): Edward Artemiev

 

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