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PASSION OF THE CHRIST SOUNDTRACK CD

Description: The Passion of the Christ-Original Motion Picture Soundtrack is the official music from this highly anticipated film. Produced in Europe, this Soundtrack captures the same powerful emotions from the film in a beautiful and moving orchestral score.

Reviews (55):

haunting and beautiful
Reviewer: Craig G. Olson "craig_oh" Long Beach, California 02-28-2004
John Debney's intense, melodic score adds much atmosphere to Mel Gibson's magnificent film, but can also stand on its own as intriguing and lovely listening. It uses a lot of background vocals and chanting to great effect, and fascinating instruments that give it a middle-eastern flavor; notable is the duduk, which is an ancient double-reed similar to the clarinet, often used in Armenian folk traditions.

It is a score that changes from gentle tenderness to percussive strength, always interesting in its many moods. A few tracks have lush string arrangements, and track # 9, "Mary Goes to Jesus" takes flight on wings of sound.
Other contributors to the score are Jack Lenz, Shankar & Gingger, with lyrics by Lisbeth Scott. The sound quality is terrific and total playing time is 54'09.
It is all at once inspiring, peaceful, and energizing music, and a score that I will be listening to many years from now.
See the film, and hear the music; this is the rare stuff that changes lives with its beauty, power, and truth.

John Debney's Best Score
Reviewer: Craig G. Olson "craig_oh" 08-17-2005
This is one of the few Debney scores not written for a kid's movie. It is a deep, violent soundtrack. It is very passionately written, well constructed and mathematical.

The only complaint is the lack of highlight songs. Many of these songs are merely underscoring, "although they are very good." The major highlights are Mary Goes To Jesus, and Ressurection, although all are good, those two will have you stunned.

Awesome soundtrack to an awesome movie.

Debney really hit rock bottom here....
Reviewer: Craig G. Olson "craig_oh" 07-21-2005
Well the movie itself made me do a couple of things; One is Boycott any future movie that Gibson writes or appears in. The man is crackers and lves to destroy people's viewpoints. Another is to avoid any movie that deals with subjects as controversial as this, because Hollywood seems to delight in trash films like this, and another is to think half the world is crazy for reacting as they did to this movie. Bottom line is "IT"S JUST A MOVIE, NOT A MAJOR TURNING POINT IN LIFE." okay, now on to the music, IT STINKS. One reviewer said that Debney recycled themes from other movie scores, Yes, I would say so. The music pieces are a tirture to listen too and you want to throw the CD out the window, I did, only into the trash.

Best Original Score of the Year
Reviewer: Anonymous 05-27-2005
John Williams, Hans Zimmer, James Horner, and now.....John Debney. Yes, with his extremely out-of-the blue score for The Passion of the Christ, Debney has risen to legendary status in movie music history. Not only was his score the best music of 2004 and only lost to Finding Neverland's because the Oscars didn't want to stir up controversy at their awards, but The Passion of the Christ's music is some of the most powerful and emotional music ever created. From beginning to end, there is never one dull spot on this soundtrack. Even Williams (movie music's greatest composers) has some boring songs on many of his soundtracks. But John Debney keeps the listener enthralled with a wide variety of instruments and a commanding, dramatic choir. Each song is different from the other, instantly destroying the chances of the regular monotony found in most every soundtrack. Below I have created the list of songs and each one's ratings.
1) The Olive Garden: B An excellent introduction to this film. Very mysterious. But, as I said, it's only the introduction

2) Bearing the Cross: A Drums and ethnic music fill this song and when the chorus comes in this song becomes indescribable in terms of emotions.

3) Jesus is Arrested: B Another dramatic song...chorus again uplifts it into greatness

4) Peter Denies Jesus: A Judging by this song's title, it obviously should be very dramatic. Debney delivers just that.

5)The Stoning: B+ An interesting combination of chorus and women soloist. Many emotions are stirred.

6)Song of Complaint: B- Possibly the worst song on the soundtrack but in no way is that saying anything bad about it. This song needs to be in this soundtrack for a "cool down" from the drama. Wind instruments used.

7) Simon is Dismissed: B+ I call this song the "Song of the Devil" because of its use in the film and it sounds exactly like a swarm of annoying insects never leaving the listener alone.

8) Flagellation/ Dark Choir/ Disciples: B+ One of the most emotional songs of the soundtrack. The title tells it all.

9) Mary Goes to Jesus: A This song starts of peaceful and then soars with the help of violins and chorus.

10)Peaceful But Primitive: A- Very good song leading up to best song on soundtrack

11) Crucifixion: A+ Best movie music song of the year. Powerful.

12) Raising the Cross: A Dramatic follow up to Crucifixion...Chorus does not disappoint once again.

13)It is Done: B- I changed my mind since this also could go into the category of worst song on soundtrack. But again it's greatly needed to "cool down" listener and their emotions.

14) Jesus is Carried Down: A If the listener has seen this film they know that Jesus being carried down from the cross isn't the only thing going on in this scene. One listen and it's an easy guess. No, not a stampede.+

15)Resurrection: A+ Only loses out to Crucifixion for best song of the year because of its lackluster finale. But still, the chorus and drums used in this song can inspire the listener. This song gets the award of Most Likely to Make the Listener Cry.

Bitter Sweet
Reviewer: Andres Segovia 05-10-2005
Let me start off by saying "I'm glad James Horner did not write this score." Horner has been recycling a lot of his music lately. Hiring John Debney to score the film was not only good for Mel Gibson but for John Debney himself. The Passion gave John the opportunity to show the world his skills as a film music composer. The Passion was a challenging film to score. The film was dark, depressing, gruesome, horrific at times, and sad. John found the emotional core of the film and exploited it. The album track is not listed in chronological order but its setup makes for a greater listening experience.
After the opening track, we have the powerful song "Bearing the Cross." This song is heard differently on the film but the album version is better. It starts off in depressing low, soft strings increasing in volume accompanied by a solo male singing the lyric-less vocals. The orchestra escalates in volume and accelerates in pace as Jesus carries the cross. The London Voices join in to add further tension and emotion to Christ's long journey to Golgatha. This is one of the best songs on the album.
There really is no theme to the film but if there is, it would have to be Lisbeth Scott's solo vocal work on various tracks on the album. The most beautiful track on the album is "Mary Goes To Jesus." This is the song one could point out to be the main theme of the film. "Crucifixion" follows the same powerful buildup as "Bearing the Cross." "Crucifixion" is the most heart-wrenching song on the album. As the orchestra and chorus build the emotion to the slow, sad string part, one can feel their heart skip a beat as they recall the climax of the film. The music nearly makes one shed tears when the flute takes the lead in the piece. The last song on the album is triumphant signifying Christ's victory over death by rising from the dead. The song starts off quietly being interrupted occasionally by loud percussion. The percussion adds further triumph to the moment with the rising string accompaniment and blown into a victorious cry by the London Voices. The song ends with Lisbeth Scott's solo vocal.
For those expecting to find the trailer music in the album will be disappointed; it's not on the disc. At about 55 minutes of running time, The Passion of the Christ is an excellent add to your collection. It captures the agony, the emotion, the passion, and the glory of the film. If you want to hear John Debney at the top of his game, buy CutThroat Island as well.

The Passion of the Christ (Score) ~ John Debney
Reviewer: Bjorn Viberg 05-06-2005
This is one of my favorite movie sound tracks of all time. Gibson certainly picked the right composer when he picked John Debney and he himself shows true mettle by singing and chanting. I feel like I am not giving it enough credit by putting an adjective to describe it. If I have to then it has to be the following. stupendous, incredible and astounding. There are so many great elements, amazing vocals, great musicians and amazing composers in the form of Gibson and Debney I love the cover and it certainly is a haunting and reminds me of paintings done in Italy during the 16th and 17th century and the book-let has some truly astounding pictures from this epic movie.

Very moving, Incredible, Breathtaking
Reviewer: Bjorn Viberg Lebanon, Oregon 03-05-2005
This Soundtrack is so beatiful. When I hear it, it is almost as if I am seeing the story. The music is just so powerful that it takes me back to the time of Jesus and I see the whole story as depicted in John through this music, it is wonderful. Although it does choke me up when I hear it sometimes, I can't help but listen to it. Amazing Score.

Hey, It's excellent
Reviewer: Bjorn Viberg Greensburg, PA United States 02-25-2005
This sound narrative constantly seeks the heart of god, prays for it. Those who know of what i sepak, know that I do not refer to Gibson's heart or anyone else's. That as these artisans, through the bible, illustrate, even the keeper of god's word, the Sanhedrin, was just a man, as peter admits; And tore his clothing at the words of jesus.

The wind instruments of brotherhood in the midst of spiritual suffering, reflect the reality of such acts, of being in unison with god's will, as being few and far between.I have litte doubt that Maurice Jarre(composer)and Gibson see themesleves as the Sanhedrin, hopeless to find the will of god alone. The melodies are often full of remorse.

But it finishes with a choral music that reflects the grand freedom of truth. One of the few tellings of the story that properly acknowledges the UNANIMOUS universal nature of the scapegoat mechinism, our need to label a human's exsistance evil, to help justify our own.

All abused minorities will find the acknowledgement of thier suffering, and the freeing revelation of the mechanism that marred them,in the story told by this music. a mechinism which, 2000 years ago, found itself with no place to hide.

Intriguing musical interpretation of the Crucifixtion
Reviewer: J. K. Moser "JKM" Flemington, New Jersey USA 02-16-2005
The Passion of the Christ is an epic film and as such, it needed an epic score. John Debney provides one. At some points, Debney's music is extremely moving and the addition of choral music serves to give evil, as it is represented in the film, an unnerving quality. However, my favorite tracks in this cd span from the quite, personal moments, "Mary Goes to Jesus" to the expansive "Crucifixtion" as well as the moments in the film that flash between past and present. I admit, however, that my favorite track on the cd is the final one. While, I admit I was not overly moved by Gibson torture of Christ (I have seen better, more impactful films: Zeffirelli's Jesus of Nazerath for one), his finale left a deep impact, especially with the music. THe end of film has a scene of Satan laughing, then a moment of absolute horror on Satan's face as it realizes that it just lost, then Gibson switches to a scene of the Resurrection with the grave clothes collapsing inward and a Resurrected Christ rising up. The music as this point in the film is triumphant and epic and totally enjoyable. The whole point of the Crucifixtion is the Resurrection and while that message may get lost in the film, Debney does not lose it in the score.

It's Okay..
Reviewer: J. K. Moser "JKM" 01-31-2005
But everyone knows that the soundtrack to a Jesus movie made by Danny Glover would have sounded much, much better.

Totally moving
Reviewer: Barbara Wright 01-26-2005
The music actually takes you back to the time of Jesus. Very moving. I highly recommend this soundtrack.

Done exactly the right way
Reviewer: Josh Likes Music Houston, TX United States 01-22-2005
I went to see this movie, not because I wanted to see all the blood, but I figured if Mel Gibson were to do this right then the music should be exceptional. I was right. Debney's score is inspiring, especially for someone like myself who would love to be in his shoes someday. Music like this is not necessarily just written in two short weeks, like many scores are done. This required a good deal of research, as per the instruments, the voices, the musical modes and structures, and a little influence from the awesome peter gabriel. This is a great film score, and in addition, how often do you find that an original film score can also stand alone and be sold in the world music section of a CD store?

OUTSTANDING
Reviewer: Josh Likes Music Edmond Oklahoma 01-18-2005
I have to agree with user William Smith. The last track brought Christ's resurrection to life in such a powerful way, that I had tears streaming down my face all the way home when I first heard it!! I do disagree with his review of the other tracks- they were breathtaking.
I hadn't even heard of John Debney until I heard this exquisite soundtrack, so I had to come look him up. Being a huge fan since birth of John Williams, John Barry and James Horner, I am now including him in that category of unforgettable and completely gifted musicians.( even if his other music wasn't so hot!)
He has captured the death and resurrection of our Savior in a touching way and I believe God used him to convey his incredible love to all of us. Don't run from the LIVING Jesus Christ, go see the movie if you haven't, and listen to this album. You will be moved.

Pure Armenian Talent Mixed Well With Gibson's Work
Reviewer: True Armenian "Hike" Boston, MA USA 12-27-2004
I like to comment on the statement regarding the Armenians and our instrument. Many of us have watched this amazing film thinking in our heads how amazing this instrument known as duduk is with such powerful movie. We are handful of people born and raised in a little country which many people dont even know that it exsists. Armenia the former Russian republic lies right in between the Red and the Black Sea also on top of a hated country due to our history Turky. For this film its a must see and the score truly amazing. At first I though this had to been the work of Hanz Zimmer but I was ver suprised it was Gabriel. It does hurt a little knowing he didn't give any credit or even mention the man behind the original score Mr Gasbarian who had played that piece with the duduk to long ago before this piece. But, I guess we dont need any recognition in writing. We know this was our musical instrument and piece which was chosen in such great movie and we also know we are the first christians to practice christianity in the world. You can only listen then realise how amazing this piece is. Hikaz Boston USA

A Riveting Score
Reviewer: True Armenian "Hike" Greenleaf, ID USA 12-24-2004
John Debney's score composition for The Passion of the Christ is a riveting score of epic proportions, complementing perfectly one of the most powerful and penetrating films of all time! John Debney has superbly rendered the musical side of the film, greatly expressing the power of the film, the power of Calvary's cross. The score also expresses the cultural atmosphere of that most momentous time in history by incorporating sounds of the time and Middle Eastern music.
The Passion of the Christ score soundtrack is an album that I highly applaud and recommend. It will always have a special place in my music collection. 5 stars.

The Passion of The Christ Soundtrack-- good soundtrack
Reviewer: Musac Critic 12-14-2004
While this isn't something that you would sit down and listen to over and over again, the score to THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST does suit the movie and gives you a feeling of the biblical events taking place within the movie. It is a pleasent listen if you want to listen to something that is kind of soothing or calming. 4 stars.

Bella Musica
Reviewer: Silvanus Bridgeport, NY 11-12-2004
This is a most beautiful audio CD full of haunting Mid-Eastern style music. It can bring you to tears, or certainly at least shivers, even if you are not a religious listener. It is one of my favourite scores to any recent film to be most honest. I must also take this chance to advise something that may sound slightly odd. If you listen to this CD, particularly tracks 2 and 3 I have found, while watching footage (with the sound off of course) on your television of the disaster of September the 11th, 2001, it provides for a most moving haunting and for me at least spirtually and emotionally cathartic experience. Buy it soon !

Excellent film score!
Reviewer: Silvanus 11-09-2004
Easily one of the best film scores of the year and worthy of an Oscar nomination, John Debney puts together a great score for the film. He is becoming one of My favorite film composers! The sound is incredible and the choir is fabulous! I recommend this score!

Soundtrack
Reviewer: John R. Iverson Saint Maries, Idaho 09-15-2004
The Passion of Christ is truly a DVD to own. I ordered it on its release date. I also have the soundtrack with the bonus prayer CD. For you trivia fans looking for modern day Lutheran connections with the movie I'll tell you it is not incorrect to think that Mother Mary in this show had one mastectomy. I could tell you other trivia, like her modern day name was really Lois, though that's a load right there. So if you don't want to think modern day trivia, including Carols, think two thousand years ago and Mary will be fine. I also know other modern day Mary girls. The show has the concept of discouraging relationships, at a person's option, for all the singles, monks and nuns out there even with the name passion in the title. But you can play with movie at your option with modern day CDs and DVDs that are available. I've already done that. The music on this CD is truely the best. The bonus prayer CD available at Sony music is good to own.

Amazing!
Reviewer: John R. Iverson Asia 09-10-2004
Combining layer upon layer of sound, the music of The Passion is not something you can just listen to. You will get completely caught up in the rise and swell of music that is occaisionally accompanied by an amazing choir. This is one of the best scores ever and it serves to help you relive each moment on-screen. Even those who have never seen the movie can find themselves completely enthralled with it. It carries a story of its own. This music MAKES the movie! I'd recommend it to anyone who truly appreciates music.

Powerful
Reviewer: John R. Iverson Washington, US 08-21-2004
And that's all there is to it. It almost brings tears to my eyes every time I hear it.

Beautiful music about The Passion Of The CHRIST
Reviewer: Anonymous 08-06-2004
Beautiful music for a beautiful film about the love and sacrifice of JESUSCHRIST for all of us.

All religious politics about the movie aside...
Reviewer: Anonymous Arizona 07-18-2004
Personally, I think the best song out of all of them was used for the movie trailer because it had a similar emotional impact the way the Gladiator soundtrack did. I have yet to see the movie myself, but what attracted me the most was the music. After listening to it, sometimes it's a hit and miss to the ears. Previous reviews I've read either rave about it, or think that it's a piece of recycled crap. It's neither in my opinion. The tracks each have their own distinct method which I'm sure was meant to enhance the scenes of the movie instead of overshadow them. Some songs I liked, others not so much (because they lacked impact). I'd highly suggest listening to the entire track in bits and pieces before buying it. Personally, I don't think it's as bad of a soundtrack as certain people are reviewing it to be. However, it's not the greatest. It has yet to compare to Gladiator's phenomenal soundtrack.

makes opera sound good...
Reviewer: Anonymous 07-09-2004
The Passion of the Christ movie is rotten
The Passion of the Christ soundtrack is worse.
But them together...... TORTURE!!!

don't buy this.

Powerfull!
Reviewer: joaomsp "joaomsp" Portugal 06-28-2004
I liked the movie! We have to see behind the scenes and the powerfull message beyond the images. I has so beatifull images and the photograph in wonderfull. this soundtrack is very beautifull and we can go deeper within the Passion than in the movie. It has so peacefull and insight movements in the tracks, and the female voice and chorus and atonishing. I feel myself very toutched emotionally and spiritually every time I listen to this score. I very good cd to add to your music collection!

Lousy music to a even lousier movie
Reviewer: Eric Kent 06-24-2004
The Passion of the Christ music is almost as bad as the movie, and that is pretty bad.
The music has some semblance of good to it. The movie is pure evil.

A Few Cross Words
Reviewer: Eric Kent New Jersey United States 06-06-2004
Right off the bat, there's a few things you should know. I don't consider myself a religious person, and I have yet to see Mel Gibson's The Passion Of The Christ, and I don't know if I ever will. This review is about the score itself, standing away from the film, and contains my opinion about it. I studied soundtrack/score in film school and have written reviews on many scores, for both movies I have seen, and many films that I have not...
Given composer John Debney's previous works and his spotty resume--prior to The Passion he is perhaps best known for his work on Seaquest DSV The Television series and the horror film I Know What You Did Last Summer--I was as surprised as anyone that hewas chosen to score the controversial film. Going from the likes of say James Horner (who bowed out) to Debney, is like going from steak to hamburger. Quite honestly, the score sounded a lot like Greame Revell's work to The Crow, with a touch of Gladiator thrown in. The music is somber, befitting the film's subject matter and that's fine, I just thought Debney would have taken this opportunity to make a better musical statement. The exeption for me is the track Resurection-the use of percussion and chorale, combines for a fine finish.

Without question anyone who saw the film, and either liked or disliked it, would have more to say about how the music relates to the movie. Coming to the score with nothing to go on, but the music, I have to say it's not all that great. Sure the film put Debney further up the success ladder, but as a collector of soundtracks, I was disappointed. For fans of the film only...The 15 track CD has a running time of 54:37

Excellent Score
Reviewer: Kenneth Norway 06-06-2004
This movie wouldn't have stod a chanse of being sucessful without its wonderful score. The emotions that it delivers to the viewers are constatly present. Comparing it to another score for a film about Jesus, The Last Temptation of the Christ, this one's at lest 10 times better. A Score

The Passion
Reviewer: Kenneth 06-02-2004
Great, powerful, moving music. Haunting and memorable. Echoes many of the great epic Zimmer and Horner scores.
However,

I heard that James Horner was going to compose the score then Lisa Gerrard. What happened to Lisa Gerrard? I think she would have done an excellent job. Her new album with Patrick Cassidy, "Immortal Memory" has some songs that sound as if they belong in this movie. I dunno, but I want to know why she didn't wind up doing the score.

And on the newest trailer (not the teaser with the great peter gabriel "Long walk home" song) there is a song that has the same melody of the "Resurrection" song from this soundtrack, except it features the duduk, many other ethnic instruments, and Gerrard's haunting voice. Does anyone know why this wasn't in the movie? Is there any way to get this song? Thank you

Music from first Christian nation in the world - Azerbaijan
Reviewer: Kenneth 06-29-2004
No one ever said that the duduk is an Azerbaijani instrument -- read more carefully. Not only did I
cite the relevant quote from the Great Soviet Encyclopedia, which I recite again below, but here's

my only quote relevant to the national belonging of the duduk: "The instrument used, duduk, is an

ancient one used in the Caucasus, particularly in Western Azerbaijan".

The duduk musical instrument cannot belong to any one nation, it is neither exclusively

Azerbaijani, nor Armenian, nor anyone else's, but instead common in the Caucasus region and the

greater Middle East. There are some nation-specific variations, like "Armenian duduk", Azerbaijani

duduk/balaban", "Turkish dtidiik", etc., which all are duduk's. Although, we should consider the

following facts and evidence, proving the duduk to be slightly more relevant to Turks and

Azerbaijanis, than any other nation.

First, the word duduk is Turkish, as the relevant entry from the Great Soviet Encyclopedia (edited

by two Armenian academicians) and another Armenian source proves.

"DUDUK (from the Turkish du:du:k), a wind instrument having a pipe about 300 mm in length with nine

fingerholes and a double reed. Usually two duduks are played--one performer plays the melody while

the other holds a single tone (the pedal point). The duduk is widespread among the people of the

Caucasus" (Great Soviet Encyclopedia, 3rd edition, vol. 8, 1973, in English, p. 438).

"The word "duduk" seems to be derived from either the Turkish duduk, whistle, or the Russian duda,

pipe. The phonetic resemblance between the Turkish and Russian words is probably coincidental. The

word and minor phonetic variants are used throughout Eastern Europe, Russia and the Caucasus, but

the name in much of the earlier literature is applied to various forms of the Turkish duct flute

.... This sometimes results in uncertainty as to the differences between duduk and dtidiik, in

other words, the differences between a Turkish flute and an Armenian or Georgian oboe. In addition,

the duduk is often referred to as an instrument of the Caucasus, an area that is home to over

thirty nationalities" (from Arsen Grigoryan, a prominent Armenian duduk player).

Second, to prove the duduk predating Armenia and Armenians, here's a quote from an Armenian

propaganda source: "The musical ancestors of the duduk existed as long ago as 4,000 years ago.

These musical instruments were found in Egypt, however, its use was more widespread in the

Caucasus." (Gayane Abrahamyan, ArmeniaNow magazine, June 13, 2003).

What material is the duduk best made from? "From the informative folder we learn that the duduk's

body must be carved from the root of the apricot tree, while the reed -- called "ramish" or "

yegheg" -- is ideally cut from canes growing along the banks of the Arax river." (Again, an

Armenian source: Gevorg Dabaghyan, Miniatures: Masterworks for Armenian Duduk, Traditional

Crossroads, 2002). The Araxes river in the left bank mostly flows through Azerbaijan, and the

entire path of it along the right bank, the Iranian side, is populated by ethnic Azerbaijanis only.

Same it is in history, ancient Armenian historians write that the southern border of Caucasian

Albania, the predecessor of Azerbaijan, is along the Araxes river -- naturally.

Finally, to show how common the duduk is in the Caucasus, let us remember that even Georgians have

the duduk as part of their culture and traditions, having two famous songs, "Duduki" and "Duduko",

and many prominent musicians and theaters using the duduk (e.g., The Dancing Crane Georgian Dance

Theater presents Songs and Instrumental Music from the Republic of Georgia Traditional and City

Songs, Church and Classical Music).

Use of Duduk Armenian instrument
Reviewer: Kenneth 05-27-2005
I am just leaving this note for some person who thought duduk is an Azery instrument.Dear friend if you don't know where duduk music or duduk is originated please don't mislead other people as you are misled. Duduk is an Armenian instrument which was originated by Armenainian people. If you had a better knowledge of music or even your culture you would have known this.Duduk explains the intersting history of Armenian people in last years and after the Armenian genocide

Utterly Breathtaking and Beautiful...
Reviewer: Beth "rosegirl_72" Wyoming 06-21-2004
This soundtrack is one of the best soundtracks that I have ever heard. John Debney was an unknown composer to me before first hearing about "The Passion of the Christ", and I have to say that his score for this film is equal to the integrity and beauty of many of my favorite scores, which include "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, "The Shawshanke Redemption"...Just to name a few....This score did not immediately blow me away...But after seeing the film and having my devotion and perspective of my relationship with Christ changed, I am moved each and every time that I hear this music. How anyone can even compare it to Peter Gabriel's score is completely unfounded. I do agree that the style is similar, because of the use of Middle Eastern instruments, but that is where the comparison ends. Gabriel's score uses the same melody over and over again and there is hardly any use of strings at all while each of the pieces on "The Passion" score are different and obviously mean more to the composer then just trying to be a breakthrough in scoring movies. "The Passion of the Christ" soundtrack

A blend between James Horner and Peter Gabriel's "Passion"
Reviewer: Beth "rosegirl_72" Orlando, FL 05-21-2004

Somehow, John Debney, having composed the scores to a good number of films has managed to stay well below the radar of popularity. It may not be a complete accident, then, that one of the all-time top 10 most popular movies, 'The Passion of the Christ' lent itself to catapult his name among the most famous scorers out there now. However, I have a dilemma with this album.
It is not difficult to be captivated by the album's beauty. One song after another bring in elements drawn from a blend of soul-touching choirs and straight-up epic musical soundscapes bound to please fans of epics in the league of 'Braveheart' and 'Gladiator' alike. Here's where part of my dilemma begins, then. I love the music, but I can't help think once and again, like other reviewers, that I've heard this before. If the comparisons with James Horner's compositions have you bored, I invite you to play the music to "The Last Temptation of Christ," by Peter Gabriel, which he captured in his legendary 1989 album 'Passion'. You will be shocked at how similar some of the tracks from Debney's score are to Gabriel's work 15 years ago, in particular where he brings in middle eastern elements to the mix.

In sum, since I can't take away from the score's beautiful work, I will give it a high score, which would be five stars under normal circumstances, but given the amount and depth of the similarities between this work and others, I will take a way a full star. Let's leave it at a comfortable four, which will make me feel in peace with my [musical] soul.

Hauntingly Inspirational
Reviewer: V. Marshall North Fork, CA USA 05-19-2004
I ran to buy this CD after seeing "The Passion" and I have nothing but an excellent rating for this soundtrack.
The music is haunting and wraps you in a cloak of inspiration. Perfect of meditating, praying, pondering life as well as relaxing after a long day. I personally find arabic type music breathtaking and many songs on this CD carry whispers of instruments that are not often heard on American CD's. You are able to envision biblical times, with harems and tribes and all that life offered even the tragedy and triumph of Christ. John Debney has orchestrated a masterful soundtrack that I highly recommend for those of you spiritually inclined.

The Passion of the Christ (Score) [SOUNDTRACK]
Reviewer: B. Viberg Atlanta, GA United States 05-12-2004
Not only is the Passion of the Christ the best movie ever made; the soundtrack is simply sublime. The songs are all well written and composed with God in mind. Highly Recommended.

Best Soundtrack of the Year!!!
Reviewer: Anonymous 05-08-2004
This CD is very touching. I love the music. It's so soft and sad sort of. The songs are in order with the movie. The movie is so sad. Everyone should get this CD. I bet you'll listen to it everyday. The songs sound the same at first but once you keep on listening to it...you'll know the difference. This CD really goes with the movie. It completely matches. Some songs may be short but it's worth it. John Debney did a great job with the music. Mel Gibson did a terrific job directing the movie! The movie is very violent and realistic. I love it.

Glory days
Reviewer: Robert Graves Thompson Station, TN USA 05-07-2004
I liked this music much better the first time I heard it in "Glory." The Passion is perhaps the most powerful movie ever made, and during the crucifixion scene I really didn't want to be sitting there thinking, "Haven't I heard this before?...oh...right...Glory."
Other than lifting 8 bars straight from James Horner, Debney did a fine job, giving appropriate and moving music in each scene. Gibson would've done better to go with Horner again, who is notorious for ripping himself off (compare Glory and Braveheart). At least that way the inclusion of Glory's main theme in The Passion would've been a little more acceptable.

Best Movie Soundtracks...
Reviewer: BKK "BK" Egypt 05-06-2004
The music of the film can't be better, rightly composed to suit such a movie like THE PASSION!
It's the best movie I've ever watched, my favourite! :)

Music from the time of Kristos
Reviewer: BKK "BK" Mountain View California 05-05-2004
This is a fine album--almost as good as Gabriel's Passion soundtrack. However, many of you seem to be interested in using music to 'transport yourselves to the time of Christ while meditating on scripture.' For those people, I must reccomend that you immediately buy a copy of Passion Sources, which showcases the actual artists from the Holy Land, to transport you to an actual time of Christ rather than a modern film maker/star's idea of what the actual time of Christ would sound like if it were in a movie.

Amazing
Reviewer: BKK "BK" 05-02-2004
It is fitting that a movie so amazing and wonderful be accompanied by music equally astonishing. Every single track transforms you to a higher level. I especially loved the "Azeri" track featured in the cd performed by The Goksel Baktagir and Yurdal Tokcan. The soundtrack is a classic and should be part of collection of every self-respecting music lover.

Music from first Christian nation in the world - Azerbaijan
Reviewer: "baguirovadil" Washington, DC USA 06-01-2004
The whole soundtrack is of course a must-own for any music lover. John Debney made a truly remarkable job in bringing the music from all over the world and fuse it into one in this CD. Of particular interest, is the "Song of Complaint", which has music from distant Azerbaijan, played by Goksel Baktagir and Yurdal Tokcan, and internally known as the "Azeri" song. (...). The instrument used, duduk, is an ancient one used in the Caucasus, particularly in Western Azerbaijan. Here's how the "Great Soviet Encyclopedia" defined it in its last, 3rd edition (1973, in English): "DUDUK (from the Turkish du:du:k), a wind instrument having a pipe about 300 mm in length with nine fingerholes and a double reed. Usually twoduduks are played--one performer plays the melody while the other holds a single tone (the pedal point). The dudk is widespread amon the people of the Caucasus. (vol. 8, p. 438)".
One of the best duduk players from Azerbaijan, Alihan Samedov, can be heard here: (...).
The relevance of such music in the OMS for the film is that Azerbaijan, known as Caucasian Albania in ancient times, was one of the first - and some say the first - nations in the world to make Christianity as their official religion, back in 4th century A.D. The oldest church in the whole region is also located in the north-east of Azerbaijan, in the village of Kish. This is the ancient land visited by the apostle's and contemporaries of Christ. (...)

A Purist's Opinion
Reviewer: William Smith Djacarta 04-29-2004
I'm of two minds when it comes to John Debney. The one considers him an entertaining purveyor of action scores, with the likes of Cutthroat Island and The Scorpion King coming to the forefront. The other remembers The Relic and every other forgettable score he's done just to pay the bills.
These two minds were warring with each other when I first heard Debney was doing one of the more controversial films of of the... century?... all time? Why put a film like this, whose score would no doubt need the touch of a master, in the hands of a composer who is at best hit-or-miss?

His last track to the score, the brilliant "Resurrection", put my fears to rest. This man is a thematic genius, and has capably invoked Christ's ultimate departure from the tomb with such emotion that I get a rush every single time I listen to it. The rest of the score is secondary to me, compared to this last piece of music, it simply fills the void.

For a film that woefully glorified Christ's torture and death and only touched upon the miracle of His resurrection, John Debney took those few seconds and turned them

A Powerful Soundtrack
Reviewer: William Smith Tucson, AZ 04-29-2004
First of all I will say that I am only going to do a review of the recording of the soundtrack. I am not going to try and review the film, which I have to admit I have not seen as yet.
The music John Debney has composed for the film "The Passion of
The Christ" tries and succeeds in evoking a different time and place from the present. This is one of a number of soundtracks that seem to be trying to do homage to the soundtracks composed in the late Fourties and early Fifthties. It also itroduces the listener to sounds that are not usually heard in traditonal Western music. Apparently Mr. Debney and company did their homework on what sounds would be right for the film. The only complaint I have with the soundtrack is that there are some chants that I assume have words to them, it that is true, why not
add a short libretto to the booklet. Or add the words to the movie's web site. I must also say that I was reminded of other recent soundtracks such as the ones Howard Shore composed for the Lord of the Rings movies. All in all the music score is a haunting one and a beautiful one. Hopefully we will get to hear more from Mr. Debney again soon.

The Most Moving Film Score
Reviewer: William Smith Sidney, Me. United States 04-25-2004
John Debney is now a film-composer favorite to many, including myself. The powerful choir and percussive strength brought out in the music is truly amazing. What makes the ending to the film unique is the music. It's common to end a movie with the feeling of 'this is only the beginning' (when Christ is ressurected). When the credits start to role, people in the theatre don't get up to leave. Part of the reason is that they are mopping up the tears on their face. The other reason is that the climax of the music being played is happening just as the film ends and cuts to black. There is power in this score that moves us and keeps us through the credits.

Sweeping Score
Reviewer: Matthew Neal 04-24-2004
One word, stunning. Like the film, the score for THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST is gripping and beautiful. John Debney successfully blends Middle-Eastern and Occidental musical styles to create a film score that is rich in depth and diversity. It accurately conveys the film's sorrow and beauty in a such a way as to leave one begging for more. Inserting Middle-Eastern instruments (and at points actual melodies) into the fabric of the music gave an authentic glimpse into the time and setting of the film. Immediately after seeing the film

Connection
Reviewer: Barbara A Stewart South Shore, Massachusetts 04-20-2004
This incredibly beautiful and spiritual soundtrack evokes all the feelings a Christian should feel, and which I have NEVER in my life felt more deeply or completely until hearing this! The suffering of Jesus, His complete surrender to suffering and dying so that all mankind can live eternally is brought home to me so clearly when I listen to this hypnotic music. John Debney is a very gifted artist, and God is speaking to all of us with this haunting production.

Amazing
Reviewer: roger Canada) 04-18-2004
The Passion has gone down in history as one of the most successful scores ever. None others have deserved such treatment. This score is among the best I've ever heard-passionate, moving, thrilling, amazing, mind blowing, and deeply emotional and powerful. This is a must have not only for Debney fans (who, by the way, has now just entered into the Composers Hall of Fame because of this soundtrack), not only for movie score collecters, but people in general who just like good music. My good friend was moved to tears with the tracks 11 and 15, and he is a fan of 50 Cent and Eminem. The power of this score will truly blow your minds...it is an amazing achievement, with the best tracks being-I can't even finish that statement. This is one of those rare times when a soundtrack does not have a single bad track (the only weak ones I can think of are the first and eighth tracks, but even then they are stunning). At any rate, this is

Far more than just an accompaniment
Reviewer: "simbo96" Bristol, South Glos. United Kingdom 04-16-2004
I have to admit that I was somewhat bemused by Debney's appointment to this film - but how I must eat my words.
The Passion of the Christ includes, without doubt, some of the best music Debney has ever written, and in my opinion stands proudly beside his other masterpiece- Cut Throat Island.

Shades of Gladiator, Passion and The Last Temptation of Christ there may be, but this is quite obviously music coming straight from Debney's heart.

This is one of the most stunning soundtracks I've ever heard.

5 star music from a 5 star movie
Reviewer: W. Dierker Pittsburgh, PA 04-16-2004
Very moving music. That reminds you of a very powerful movie. As the movie reminds you of the sacrifice that was made for us, the music reminds you too. I keep connecting a line from Saving Private Ryan with the movie - "earn it." I feel that we need to earn the sacrifice that was willingly made on our behalf. As the music helps us remain conscious of that sacrifice, it helps us to work each day to "earn it."

Moving "new age" soundtrack
Reviewer: frisky2000 "frisky2000" New York City, NY 04-14-2004
Had I not seen the film, I'd have listened to this soundtrack as just another "new age" compilation, great for popping into the stereo while relaxing at home. Upon seeing the film, however, the music took on a whole other dimension. Quite moving and surreal, the songs will take you back to the scenes in the film, and on trackS #8 and #13 I found myself weeping. Controversies aside, you can't miss this theatre experience, but if you do, get the soundtrack to at least lose yourself in the intense feelings behind the story

review the music-not your beliefs
Reviewer: A music fan 04-13-2004
I am a fan of middle eastern and world music and have not seen this film-however i do occasionally rely on reader reviews to decide whether or not ill pick up a cd. All im getting is religion crammed down my throat or intellectual meanderings countering it. please just stick to the music score. would someone without prejudice just tell me whether this cd is good or not- your faith or lack of it means nothing to me-i just want a good cd ala peter gabriels passion or any natacha atlas cd which i both like. thanks

exellent score
Reviewer: Anonymous 04-13-2004
A great score for a great movie, and a very touching one too. It's like you were watching the movie.

Crap movie, decent score
Reviewer: Anonymous 04-13-2004
OK, I didn't like this heavy-handed, one-dimensional, money-maker of a movie. However, I have to give credit where credit is due. This is an exellent score that can not be as easily dismissed as the film that it supports. Magnificently recorded and very well composed, this is a real piece of work. Some of these other reviewers seem a little confused. This score is definitely not the sound of 2000 years ago. I say this with confindence as I know how the composer generated these sounds, and trust me oh simple sheep, the instruments didn't exist even 10 years ago let alone 1000. Buy this score if it caught your attention from seein

Music OK, movie terrible
Reviewer: Anonymous 03-07-2006
This movie turned Jesus into one of the biggest money making scams of them all for Mel Gibson. A disgrace. The music is what I am reviewing though and it is ok, but not superb.

Crap. Utter crap like the movie.
Reviewer: Anonymous 07-16-2006
ITs crap. The movie is total bullshit based on no actual events, and the songs are recycled.

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