Before the Flood – Music from the Motion Picture by Gustavo Santaolalla

About this album

Sound: "A haunting blend of orchestral textures and ambient soundscapes that evoke a sense of urgency about climate change."

Where they were

By the time 'Before the Flood' was released in 2016, Gustavo Santaolalla had already established himself as a prominent composer and musician, known for his work on film scores like 'Brokeback Mountain' and 'The Motorcycle Diaries'. This album marked another collaboration with director Fisher Stevens, following their previous projects, emphasizing Santaolalla's continued evolution into environmental themes through music.

Why it matters

'Before the Flood' is significant not only for its musical composition but also for its association with Leonardo DiCaprio's documentary on climate change, which raised awareness globally. The soundtrack received positive critical acclaim and contributed to discussions around environmental issues, making it a notable part of contemporary film soundtracks addressing urgent social concerns.

Essential tracks

"Before the Flood" — The title track encapsulates the album's central theme with its expansive sound and emotional weight, setting the tone for the entire soundtrack.
"Dust Bowl" — This short yet impactful piece uses minimal instrumentation to evoke feelings of desolation, mirroring the environmental devastation discussed in the documentary.
"8 Billion" — '8 Billion' serves as a powerful culmination of the album, combining rich layers of sound that reflect on humanity's collective impact on the planet.