Keosz Delivers the Brilliant Soundtrack for Neven
Sometimes an almost supernatural synergy occurs when you combine themes in certain combinations; things just seem to work well together and one part wholly compliments the other. For instance, Peanut butter and jelly, Abott and Costello, or John Williams and Stephen Spielberg - and you cannot seemingly fathom one existing without the other. This droll introduction is used to convey such synergy that exists between the magnificent short film, Neven and its soundtrack of the same name, composed by sound design maestro, Keosz. Known for his previous works on the Cryo Chamber label (Be Left to Oneself and AVA), composer Erik Osvald has lent his creative prowess to become the emotional lynchpin to one of the most brilliant films I have had the distinct privilege of viewing in a long time. Neven is a tale of loneliness and drive, of one man trudging through a war-torn post-apocalyptic landscape trying to survive, all while carrying the burden and pain of memory with him. It is a desolate sojourn, but not without moments of happiness, much akin to the lives we ourselves experience, with a science fiction backdrop that is used to help propel the story, not to become the focus of the story, an important distinction. I make this distinction as that is precisely what this soundtrack from Keosz provides to the film, as well.
Keosz is known for his proclivity to use eloquent, sweeping pads that congeal with sub bass tones, and the professional way in which he can contain the often untameable frequencies together into a palatable melange for the ears. His previous albums (from Cryo Chamber) have carried the distinct flavors of transhumanist thought and philosophical musings, with the answers to these ruminations as oblique as the softened tones he uses to craft his sounds. His soundtrack work in Neven is nothing short of inspired genius, and his style of subtle drones and intermittent piano motif as a focal point works immaculately with the movie, especially since the story has hardly any spoken dialogue. The subtle caress of those signature pads and warming tones is frequently punctuated by the ominous forbearance of his ubiquitous bass craftsmanship, lending presence and the weight of some unseen dread to the ambience.
Not only do I recommend this soundtrack, but I greatly recommend watching this film, to experience the soundtrack at work in the way it was crafted. Ominous sci fi ambience that helps give the futuristic survival story the weight that it needs. The movie itself is incredible, and really shows what can happen with a little inspiration and the drive to see something to completion, as it was filmed with practically no budget. I will also break kayfabe and thank Theatre Divadlo z Pasáže - Municipal Community Theatre who work with actors with down syndrome.
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