This soundtrack has the EXACT same contents as the Japanese
My Neighbor Totoro Soundtrack, but at a fraction of the price.
Whilst this isn't technically the official Japanese soundtrack, it is an OFFICIAL UK version, which is licensed by Wasabi Records. As there are many bootleg companies ripping off the Japanese soundtracks, it's very hard for those who don't know what they're looking out for to purchase a genuine one, so buying this is a safe option.
When I stated this is an exact copy of the Japanese soundtrack, unfortunately for those who prefer the English version of "Hey Let's Go!"/"Sampo", will not get it as the lyrics is Japanese.
Personally for me I prefer the Japanese version so this doesn't really bother me at all, but I would agree that the case is misleading as not only is everything is in English on the case, it states "Hey Let's Go" on the track listing, they should of just labelled it as "Sampo" only.
That aside, this soundtrack is one of my favourites and is delightful to listen too.
The style of the case is wonderful, it has a lovely picture of Totoro and the girls on the front which is actually a slipcase, slip that off and you are presented with a beautiful artwork of the house Mei & Satsuki live in, inside you will be presented with a very collective looking audio CD and booklet.
The booklet contains track listings, an interview with the composer Joe Hisaishi, more beautiful artwork, a description about the film and English & Japanese lyrics for the Ending theme.
*Also would love to see Wasabi Records release the rest of the film soundtracks, especially from the films
Pom Poko,
Porco Rosso,
My Neighbours The Yamadas,
Whisper of the Heart &
Howl's Moving Castle.
For those who have seen the film and love the music or anyone who are a genuine fan of Studio Ghibli, this is a must for your collection!