Movie Music and More 27# : "Chocolat" (2000)

Here's Hamlette, back again to discuss more movie music with you.  I've only heard a few soundtracks by Rachel Portman, but I really like what I've heard.  The scores for both Chocolat (2000) and Emma (1996) make me happy and are great for listening to when I feel like listening to something sprightly, but with a pang of melancholy here and there.  Considering the movie's subject matter, I'm sure it's no surprise that I really like to listen to the Chocolat soundtrack while I bake. 

I'll start you off with a feel-good song, lots of energy and spring to it.  It really conveys the idea of vigorously setting to work, doesn't it?

Here's a completely different mood.  "Caravan" is soft and sensuous, a slow and beautiful simmer.  It was first performed by Duke Ellington in the 1930s, but here, the guitar track is laid down by none other than Johnny Depp, who co-stars in the film.

My favorite track on the whole soundtrack is "Minor Swing," another '30s jazz song which Johnny Depp also plays guitar on.  It's joyful and energetic and just plain fun -- it gets my toes tapping and my fingers snapping.

Thanks for listening!