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SOUNDTRACK REVIEW:
Just like we know that we shouldn’t judge a book by
its cover, we also shouldn’t judge a soundtrack by its
packaging. But from the moment we received this soundtrack
to the most successful Taiwanese movie of all time in the
mailbox, we haven’t been able to lay our hands off it.
To coincide with the film’s plot about unsent love letters,
the soundtrack is cleverly designed as a mail parcel printed
with the Cape No. 7 address, the addressee’s name and
four stamps – tied up with a string.
Yes,
we are suckers for pretty packaging indeed. But before you
dismiss us as superficial folks, let us assure you that the
music in this album isn’t that bad either.
The
44 minute album is a joy to listen to, from the moment the
first track introduces you to Kageyama Yukihiko's resonating
narration of the first love letter. Sure, not all of us understand
the Japanese language, but his deeply moving voice makes the
recitation calming to listen to. Besides, the genius soundtrack
producers have provided the Chinese translated sheets resembling
the love letters in the package (note: award extra points),
making the pleasant listening experience complete. The serene
main theme is a recurring one, and will please any listener
with a heart.
Between
these cues are tracks performed by various artistes as heard
in the film. From the cheeky (04: Love You To Death), the
indigenous (06: Where to Go?) and the soothing (08: For Daughter),
each has a unique flavour that will appeal universally.
The
movie’s leading man, Van Fan performs several memorable
tracks on the soundtrack that remind us of his heydays during
the early 2000s. From the angst ridden “Don't Wanna”,
the catchy and upbeat rock tune (10: No Limit to Happiness)
to the hopefully romantic Golden Horse nominated (12: South
of the Border), you can tell the almost forgotten singer (now
actor) is in top form again.
There
are two especially noteworthy tracks here. The first one entitled
(13: Wild Rose) is a Mandarin and Japanese version of Franz
Schubert's familiar classic composition “Heiden Roslein”
which fuses traditional instrumental composition with the
performer’s vocals. The second one is (14: The Seventh
Letter – Love Note) has Fan singing the last love letter
to the film’s lovely main theme.
And
guess what? You can sing along too, projecting your soaring
vocals while holding the pretty lyric sheet in your hand.
ALBUM
RATING:
 
Recommended Track: 14 (The Seventh Letter – Love Note)
Review
by John Li
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