CD REVIEW - CONFESSION


Confession
Music by Ryan Shore
La-La Land Records LLLCD 1119 (US)
23 Tracks 42:28 mins

I have been mightily impressed with what I've heard of Ryan Shore up to this point, which is why I was looking forward to hearing his orchestral/choral score for Jonathan Meyers' 2005 film Confession. It's taken a while to appear on CD, but the presence of Chris Pine (Star Trek) in the cast may have had something to do with its release at this time.
Overall, the score has a solemn, religious feel, the choir often floating ethereally above the orchestra; but highlights include the opening "Philosophy,"which presents a mournful a Capella main theme for female voice, supported by male choir, which is reprised in the final track, "Sacred;" the violent "Luther Kills Bennet;" the lovely piano-lead "Choose;" the hopeful strings of "Escape;" and the breezy, Celtic-flavoured "Bicycle."
Shore's main theme is a sorrowful, piano-lead affair, first heard in "Dining Hall," and featured still further in "Bennet's Confession" and "Priest Interrogation," before being developed more fully in "Requiem," where the female voice returns to accompany the piano; and "Confession," where strings provide a final feeling of hopeful resolution.
Perhaps not as instantly likeable as some of his recent scores, Confession nevertheless has its moments and it's good to have the chance to add it to your Ryan Shore collection. It's Limited to just 1000 units, so go to www.lalalandrecords.com/Confession.html for samples and to order your copy.