The powerhouse music by Jarre offers a rich symphonic score - by turns stirring, melodic, flavorful and exciting. The first track launches an epic musical journey with a rich array of material: dynamic brass fanfare opens, leads to rousing Blackthorne theme, then collides with low-brass dominated Toranaga theme which finally melts into the tender melody for Mariko before coming to a close. Jarre melds the evocative sounds of Japan (shakuhachi, koto, biwa, shamisen) with a full orchestra to create a world of Japan at the dawn of the 17th Century.

In 1980 the composer assembled a terrific representation of his score for LP on the RSO label and in doing so, fashions one of his most compelling albums of a sensational award-laden career. This CD presents the LP program, newly re-mastered by Universal Music Group engineers.

Packaging & Liner Notes
Standard jewel case with a great 8-page booklet. Liner notes from John Takis.