Some music is made to be heard played on soothing, emotive strings, and that definitely applies to Joe Hisaishi’s scores for Hayao Miyazaki‘s films. The music has as much depth as the incredible story and visuals. We got a taste of Vitamin String Quartet’s skilled covers of Hisaishi’s work with a track from My Neighbor Totoro, and we were impressed. And now, we’re thrilled to exclusively debut another moving piece from their upcoming Studio Ghibli cover album, “The Legend of Ashitaka” from Princess Mononoke.
Vitamin String Quartet’s treatment captures the nuanced musical layers of Ashitaka’s story from prince, to hunter, to warrior. Following the roadmap created by Hisaishi, they add rich tones and a unique quality. I’m looking forward to hearing the group’s versions of more selections from Studio Ghibli films, including Howl’s Moving Castle, Spirited Away, and more.
The 12-track Vitamin String Quartet: The World of Studio Ghibli will be released on Black Friday Record Store Day on November 24 as an 180-gram vinyl with a download card and full color sleeve. If you’d rather own the album digitally, it will be available on December 1. Get more information at their website.
Will you be adding this album to your rotation? What do you think of their rendition of “The Legend of Ashitaka?” Share all your thoughts in the comments.
Images: Studio Ghibli, Vitamin String Quartet
Amy Ratcliffe is an Associate Editor for Nerdist. Follow her on Twitter and keep up with her Disney food adventures on Instagram.
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