Ulysses' Gaze

by Eleni Karaindrou

Kim Kashkashian, viola

ECM New Series 1570 ****1/2

Review by Filmbuff32

In the unending quest to find new and interesting film music, rarely does one come across a soundtrack as unique as "Ulysses' Gaze". The film itself, which is foreign and directed by Theo Angelopoulos, takes place in the Balkan regions of Europe and primarily focuses its war-ridden and grey scenery and the lives of the people there. Harvey Keitel leads the cast, and does a good job in his role as a movie director trying to collect film about the native people there. The plot is somewhat vague as a whole, primarily because the film is slow and long (around 3 hours), but it is quite interesting. After a single viewing, the film's merit seems to lie in the wonderful photography/cinematography of the region and the music. Much of the film stands without dialogue, but that adds to the feel that is trying to be portrayed, one that is quite gray, nondescript, and filled with silent melancholy, which is also quite representative of the region. The script is in English and Balkan dialects, with subtitles. Overall, it is quite an artistic film, certainly not the everyday Hollywood brainless thrill-ride. "Ulysses' Gaze" actually makes the viewer think, and the soundtrack really sets the stage for an intellectual journey through the Balkan region.

The soundtrack itself, is composed by Eleni Karaindrou. The orchestration chosen is quite sparce, but original. The main instruments heard throughout the score are viola, oboe, accordian, french horn, trumpet, cello, voice, and string orchestra. The viola solos, which comprise much of the score, are performed by Kim Kashkashian, who is perhaps the most well-known violist recording today. Much of her other work is quite impressive as well.

The structure of the score itself is basically in theme and variation form. There are three primary themes in this score, "Ulysses' Theme", "Woman's Theme", and "Litany". These themes go through changes throughout. The themes are transferred from instrument to instrument, and changed slightly, as is the traditional use of theme and variation. The majority of the music can be analyzed as solo passages over a drone, which is quite representative of much of the ethnic music from that part of the world. The melodies are modal in nature and are quite melancholy as well. There is a recurring dance piece that is heard from time to time, and is seemingly authentic.

Hearing the main theme on different instruments is a very effective scoring device. Perhaps, the most impactful choices are french horn and accordian. In the middle of the score is a large suite, comprised of all of the main themes and new ones as well. For a film score the length of this suite is extremely long (17:02), but for a classical listener, no problem. It is in this suite that some of the more lush and complete orchestrations and renditions of the themes are heard. When the string orchestra is backing the main theme, rather than a drone, the effect is quite powerful.

Perhaps one of the most interesting sections of the soundtrack is the track entitled "Byzantine Psalm", which occurs directly after the large suite. It is set for acappella voice, as the title reflects, and is sung by Georgia Voulvi. This short piece is quite haunting, especially being sung in the traditional language.

Overall, this soundtrack is quite reflective and melancholy, but serves the film very well, as its function demands. Another point worthy of mention is the blending of classical and ethnic elements in this score. Kim Kashkashian's viola performance is wonderful in this score and even outside of it. Her recordings for the big classical label, Deutsche Grammophone, and also for ECM New Series are first-rate, and wonderful. The viola is often neglected as a solo instrument, and it is quite pleasing to give it some more exposure. So, for those listeners always wanting something new and interesting, "Ulysses' Gaze" is highly recommended. Hopefully, the more artistic side of film and film music can be brought into the limelight more. This is a perfect example of quality art, and should not be neglected. Check it out!

***

Folks: It's a tall order for us to fill this daily column every time out, and we welcome guest writers. In particular, tell us about a score or album you really like, as Chris has done here. Help people discover new gems--it's a wonderful thing to share something you really like, and that's what we'd like to do here.

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