Hisaishi is definitely one of my favourites too. The Totoro soundtrack is sublime and hes done some really good work with Takeshi Kitano on his films, amongst others. I have to admit I’m not an expert on film composers, but I love Morricone, particurlarly for Once Upon a Time in the West, and Goblin for their Dario Argento soundtracks. Talking of anime, the Paprika soundtrack is brilliant, composed by Hirasawa Susumu.
I loved Joe Hisaishi’s score for KIKUJIRO. Hadn’t thought it for years, though, so thanks for reminding me via this thread!
@Joe Kennard
I pretty much agree with everyhing you just posted (: ,Morricone has to be my third or fourth favourite composer after Hisaishi and Glover Gill (Who composed for Waking Life), “The Ecstacy of Gold” is an amazing piece. I also own Paprika and the parade theme is fantastic, sounds like a weird mix of marching band and electronica. If you like music like that, “Flying Lotus”, produces some of the finest experimental music I’ve ever heard.
Connor
I was just wondering who your favourite film composer is?
Personally, while not a huge anime fan, (I like GiTS, Cowboy Bebop and most of what Ghibli produce) Joe Hisaishi’s scores have had a huge influence on me and always inspire me. His epic orchestral pieces really convey a sense of openness and freedom and his quieter broodier pieces are just sublime. I’ve included two examples of what I’m talking about below but I’d like to know who your favourite composer is, go ahead, post a video. (: