This soundtrack to the 1996 Canadian art house film should be cross-listed in the classical section. Mychael Danna has composed very convincingly within medieval modalities, ranging from chant to polyphony. The Hilliard Ensemble recorded the music, as most of the music is a cappella, but solo cello and trumpet are also used to good effect. Highlights are the ebullient Gloria, the warm and gentle Sanctus II, and especially the layered Agnus Dei which compares favorably to the 16th century setting of your choice. The combo of pure male voices and heartbreaking cello is stirring and will send chills through you.
Mychael Danna is a very versatile composer and has numerous soundtracks to his credit. Most are very different from this one but they all stand alone as CDs that you can throw on and enjoy from beginning to end. He has also released New Age compositions.
