Blood Diamond (2006)
Directed by Edward Zwick
Released in theatres on December 8, 2006
Credit: Ambient Music Design
Overview: I wasn't familiar with the term 'Conflict Diamond' before I was asked to get onboard this project, needless to say it opened my eyes to yet more injustice taking place on the African continent. It was a great project to be involved in, musically as well on a personal level. I began sending James ideas over from London and eventually joined him in LA for the last few weeks refining of ideas. There was a lot of driving electronics as well as the need for a large amount of atmospheric material. Eventually we all traveled back to London for a few weeks to record the orchestral score, plus a variety of soloists. Always nice to have the gang on my side of the pond for a change!
Highlights: It's not often you get the chance to contribute to something that might actually make a real difference to other peoples lives. If this project helps to alleviate the suffering of just one person it'll be worthwhile, but hopefully it'll achieve much more than that. Ed Zwick's fervor for the cause was inspiring, as was the enthusiasm of the African Children's Choir. I've never seen such sheer joy in a session before, that day was one the highlights of the many years I've spent in recording studios. Check out information on the issues involved at:
http://www.amnestyusa.org/amnestynow/diamonds.html
http://www.un.org/peace/africa/Diamond.html
http://www.globalwitness.org/pages/en/conflict_diamonds.html
...and of course the amazing African Children's Choir:
http://www.africanchildrenschoir.com/