For years now, German composer Max Richter has provided the sonic accompaniment to my most fervent emotions. His albums—from Memory House to The Blue Notebooks— are gorgeous and kinetic, wrapping you in a sense of melancholy beauty that’s at once calming and visceral, but always cinematic. Complex and varied, his work amalgamates intelligent and classical pieces with electronic notes that give it a pulse and make his sound entirely unique. And when it comes to his original film soundtracks, there are few modern composers that know how to perfectly score a moment so delicately, bringing the directors vision and emotional and psychological intentions to their highest point.

And today, Henry-Alex Rubin’s first narrative feature, Disconnect, begins its theatrical run. The thrilling and heart-wrenching drama weaves together story lines that reflect the immediacy and dangers of the digital age without preaching, simply shedding light on the strange, strange world we’re living in today. And as a massive admirer of Richter himself, Rubin chose the brilliant composer to score his film, highlighting what could be considered Richter’s masterpiece thus far, the devastatingly stunning “On the Nature of Daylight.” Not only does the song play in its entirety multiple times throughout the film, the soundtrack is filled with edits of the tune and weaves its wave throughout, becoming a character of its own in the story,—an emotional touchstone for the audience. And when the film hits its crescendo, Richter’s dramatic tones are there to elevate the moment into something beyond words.

So on this rainy day and to honor the soundtrack for the film, I’ve compiled some of Max Richter’s best songs for your sonic pleasure. Take a listen, see the film, and stay tuned for our interview with Rubin coming on monday. Enjoy.

On This Grey Day, a Tribute to Brilliant Composer Max Richter

Stream Max Richter’s Beautiful Score for Henry-Alex Rubin’s ‘Disconnect’

Watch Max Richter Re-Imagine Vivaldi’s ‘Four Seasons’ Live

Wayne McGregor II ‘Infra’ (Max Richter; Barry Wordsworth, Royal Opera House, 2009)

Maybe one of the most beautiful things you will ever see.

pauses-and-silences:

On the Nature of Daylight by Max Richter

In case I haven’t posted this enough.

rekupp:

 There are no words.

The best thing about Fall: endless amounts of Max Richter swirling around in the wind, mingling with the leaves, and leaving you feeling completely desolate yet deeply impassioned. Cozy, sinking, etc.

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