CD Review: The Theory Of Everything (OST) - Johann Johannsson

Soundtrack albums can be a curious breed. In an age where every film now possesses its own unique soundtrack, an album of music to accompany a film release has become a necessary piece of marketing.

In the case of The Theory Of Everything, the forthcoming biography of Stephen Hawking, the accompanying soundtrack features no less than 27 pieces of music from Icelandic composer Johann Johannsson.

Releasing the album ahead of the films release gives listeners a chance to appreciate the music on its own merits and without the intrusive imagery of an accompanying film. As much as I enjoyed the intricate orchestrations I did find them incredibly short in length, but maybe thats more the limitation of CD space than Johannsson's impeccable compositions.

• This review by Andy Howells was featured in the South Wales Argus entertainment supplement The Guide on December 19, 2014