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The ensemble in Snow Falling on Cedars is led by strings, though the true appeal of the score comes from the employment of solo cello, numerous electronic accompaniments, boy soprano solos, a shakuhachi flute, and, most impressively, the Los Angeles Master Chorale. Although these elements may seem typical, Howard weaves them into a highly ethnic and romantic product, with the romance stemming from the intimate nature of the music rather than any particular overwhelming theme. The themes that tie the score for Snow Falling on Cedars together are very subtle in statement, yet heavy on the heart. With a variety of bass heavy strings and synthesizers, the orchestra's performances of these statements are solemn and haunted. While the solo cello performs a meandering theme in the film's opening moments (and sparingly thereafter), a simple 4-note rhythmic motif captures your attention throughout the score. Always performed with the assistance of the chorus, this theme debuts in "Carl's Fishing Net" and graces "Hatsue and Ishmael Kiss" (pure beauty at work), "Typeset," the resounding "Tarawa," and the central portion of the "End Titles." In some ways, the allure of this remarkably simple motif mirrors the that of the equally basic progressions of Lady in the Water many years later, and a faintly rising and falling motif for violin will foreshadow the famous parts of Howard's The Village. The shakuhachi flute is utilized in a much more fluid manner than James Horner's typically blasting use. Several crescendos of melodramatic, quivering strings litter the score, usually followed abruptly with the soft beat of an ethnic drum. While there are some outbursts of impressive volume and intensity in the score, the subdued harmony and a stark sense of reality define Snow Falling on Cedars. The only true standout cue is "Tarawa," with the battle sequence offering a harrowing and powerful performance of the 4-note choral motif with the same almost religiously engaging resolve as the peaks in Devil's Advocate. Overall, the score is an outstanding atmospheric listening experience, seamless and uninterrupted by a weak cue. The captivating subtleties inserted by James Newton Howard, from the cello solos to the soft electronic tinkling, will leave you impressed by the score's dark strength and relaxed by its soothing demeanor all at once.  ****   @Amazon.com: CD or Download

Bias Check:

For James Newton Howard reviews at Filmtracks, the average editorial rating is 3.4 (in 70 reviews) and the average viewer rating is 3.36 (in 86,511 votes). The maximum rating is 5 stars.

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