With a 40-year legacy as a composer for film directors Hayao Miyazaki and "Beat" Takeshi Kitano, Joe Hisaishi has scored dramas and Studio Ghibli anime classics like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke. Now, 28 of his works, many of which have never been released outside of his native Japan, are collected on this double disc set. Hisaishi's command of western classical music is profound, with distinctly Japanese influences underscoring these compositions. While much of Hisaishi's music is created to accompany animated visuals, his enchanting themes are a standalone listening treasure.
Distributed by: Decca Gold
Produced by: Joe Hisaishi/Various