Spirited Away (2001)

Joe Hisaishi’s score for *Spirited Away* is a masterclass in emotional storytelling, providing the beating heart for Hayao Miyazaki’s animated masterpiece. Released in 2001, the soundtrack's ability to transition seamlessly from whimsical wonder in tracks like "One Summer's Day" to the aching melancholy of "The Name of Life" demonstrates a remarkable range. With 21 tracks on its original release, the score offers a rich tapestry of orchestral beauty, and its enduring popularity is evident in its consistent high rankings on 'best anime soundtracks' lists, often appearing in the top 3 spots. This extensive composition is significantly broader in scope than many contemporary film scores, offering at least one more track than the typical modern movie soundtrack, which often features around 20 tracks. The album achieved notable commercial success, peaking at number 13 on the Oricon weekly album chart in Japan.