One of Ghibli's most beloved films. For fans of Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki, My Neighbor Totoro hardly needs an introduction. The simple tale of two young sisters that get help with their life struggles from a few surprising creatures, is easily one of the Studio's most touching works. Again, Joe Hisaishi was tasked with soundtracking the film, but before that happened, an Image Album (not to be confused with the soundtrack) was made. Like other Image Albums, these songs were created before the animated film was completed, but rather than being based off concept art or comics, Hisaishi-san was instructed to create these works with the concept of "making songs which children really want and can sing out loud with their mouth widely opened." For anyone who has seen the film, those instructions could not have been more perfect. This limited edition reissue is comes complete with a 16-page booklet with drawings and sheet music, obi strip, and illustrated cover by Miyazaki, just like it did back in 1987. A must any Ghibli fans. Recommended.

• black vinyl pressing
• limited edition Japanese import reissue, originally released in 1987
• includes obi strip + 16-page score booklet
• music label: Studio Ghibli Records 2018

reviewed by Otakun 09/2018