by Demetris Christodoulides on 1/22/2006
 
Beltrami's latest is a rather offbeat, moody, and generally atmospheric, organic score with bits of minimalism. Main traits are the small string ensemble, fronted by melancholic cello / violin / viola solos in a chamber-musical style, nostalgic accordion with acoustic guitar, various woodwinds, smooth electronics, electric guitar and a varied Latin instrumental ensemble (led by Mandolin, Guitarron, and Nylon String Guitar) with relevantly groovy rhythms, at places. Main theme is based on couplings of a sad 2-note motif, and the whole score carries elements of Beltrami's own I Am Dina and the beautiful The Pledge by Hans Zimmer and Klaus Badelt. Its last part ("No Jimenez," "Forgiveness" and "Goodbye") deserves the purchase alone! Those of you who'd enjoy a particularly personal, warm, intimate and melodic little score will find a lot to appreciate in this new work which greatly grows in you with each new listen. Furthermore, Three Burials proves Beltrami is a versatile composer avoiding typecasting and deserving all the praise he gets. Beautiful music.