Moses Sumney’s Journey as a Film Composer for ‘Is God Is’

Moses Sumney, the acclaimed singer-songwriter known for his ethereal voice and innovative music, took on a new challenge as the composer for Aleshea Harris’ directorial debut, *Is God Is*. The film, released in 2021, explores themes of revenge, trauma, and the complex bonds between twin sisters. Sumney’s transition from musician to film composer offers a unique glimpse into the creative process behind the movie’s haunting soundtrack.

The Vision Behind the Score

Sumney first encountered the script for *Is God Is* and was immediately captivated by its originality. “The script was really wonderful, and it was cool to read such an original voice jump off the page,” he told VIBE. The story of Racine (Kara Young) and Anaia (Mallori Johnson), who seek to kill their abusive father, resonated deeply with him. This emotional core guided his approach to the score, which blends his signature “elastic voice” with experimental sounds.

One of the most challenging aspects of the project was crafting the soundtrack for the twins’ telepathic communication. Sumney and co-composer Joseph Shirley experimented with unique audio textures, often using Sumney’s voice as the foundation. “A lot of the synths and keys are built off my voice,” he explained. “It’s about stretching the human voice to its limits, much like the characters in the film.”

Collaboration and Challenges

Sumney admitted that working on a film was a departure from his usual solo creative process. “I’m used to being self-employed and working alone,” he noted. “Film is a collaborative industry, and adjusting to that workflow was both challenging and rewarding.” His long-time friend and collaborator Joseph Shirley played a pivotal role in mentoring him, helping him navigate the intricacies of film scoring.

The duo also drew inspiration from a diverse range of musical influences, including the works of Nicholas Britell and Cristobal Tapia de Veer. Sumney emphasized the importance of creating a “unique palette” for the film, avoiding overused sounds. “I never want to do anything if I don’t feel like I can add something unique to the art form,” he said.

The Emotional Core of the Film

Sumney highlighted the film’s powerful exploration of Black women’s rage and resilience. “There’s a juxtaposition of internalizing rage and expressing it outwardly,” he observed. This theme is particularly evident in the scene where Anaia (Mallori Johnson) is left to raise her child alone after Racine’s death. Sumney’s score for this moment, featuring a soulful folk-inspired track, balances melancholy with hope, reflecting Anaia’s journey toward independence.

Looking Ahead

While Sumney is currently focused on completing his next album, he remains open to future film projects. “I’m excited for this to come out and for people to live with this work,” he said. His experience with *Is God Is* has left him with a newfound appreciation for collaboration and the power of music to amplify a film’s narrative.

As *Is God Is* continues to receive critical acclaim, Sumney’s contribution to its soundtrack stands as a testament to his versatility and artistic vision. For fans of both his music and cinema, the film offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of sound and storytelling.