Customer Reviews

Against the Wind

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Against The Wind was a powerful 13 episode mini-series televised in 1980. This film, starring Mary Larkin and Jon English, was a masterpiece. The story of an Irish convict, who was transported to New South Wales, and her struggle for survival. Jon English, who composed this score, starred as Mary's husband in the film.
The music is hauntingly beautiful. Too often soundtracks don't accurately reflect the film's storyline and emotion, but this one does. It has all the elements you would expect to find in a film depicting an 18th century love story. The instruments used are quite authentic, giving the songs even more validity in comparison to the movie story. Not quite Celtic, not quite folk, but rather a sweet and haunting blend. Contemporary instruments and styles also remind the listener that this is not just another instrumental folk/celtic album, but something as fresh today as it might have been back in the 18th century.
Jon English and a writing partner, Mario Millo, really outdid themselves with this soundtrack. The title track, "Against The Wind", is performed several times, yet in different syles with different emotions. The vocal piece, "Six Ribbons", is a wonderful lyrical version of the title song.
I have played my vinyl copies of this album to death, and it is wonderful, that someone finally had the wisdom to release this soundtrack on CD. Whether you've seen the mini-series or not, you will love this album. You'll never look at Irish/Australian history the same way again.
I give it a thumbs up for composition, instrumental blending, and overall production.