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HOUSE OF DARK SHADOWS / NIGHT OF DARK SHADOWS
SOUNDSCAPES
FILM SCORES
ABOMINABLE
Released in 2006, by Aleph Records
21 Tracks, with a running time of
Music by Lalo Schifrin
If you don't the name of Lalo Schifrin, you do know
his music. He is the main behind the theme for Mission Impossible, both the
original TV series and the movies. But as a horror fan, you might know his work
on AMITYVILLE HORROR, which is probably one of the best horror scores out there.
And now, helping out his son who directed ABOMINABLE, Schifrin has created
another great score. It's been quite some time since he has worked on horror
film, but he still shows that he knows what makes an effective score. Just by
listening to the different tracks, you can almost tell what is going on in the
movie. That is how good he sets the mood. There are some tracks that are more
action or suspense building. But other ones, like #6 (There Is Something Out
There), creates some great eeriness to it, through the use of come creepy
strings. The master still has it. Hopefully he will do a few more in the
horror genre.
THE
ABOMINABLE DR. PHIBES
Released in 2005, by Perseverance Records
14 Tracks, with a running time of 39:49 min.
Composed by Basil Kirchin
One of the earliest movies that I remember where I
loved a piece of music from it, was the opening organ music that Dr. Phibes is
playing in the beginning of THE ABOMINABLE DR. PHIBES. Hell, I even recorded it
off my video tape on to cassette so I could listen to it by itself. With Price
doing his best Phantom of the Opera, it's one of the many fond memories I have
of this film. Well, that piece of music is here on this soundtrack.
Which brings me to this soundtrack. While this isn't filled with the gothic
sounds or creepy atmosphere that I usually like my soundtracks, what this does
have is memories. Just listening to this score brings back the film in my
mind. Maybe it's because I've seen it so many times, but it's a great score for
a great movie. The film does have an eerie sense to it, since during these
elegant ballroom waltzes, you have a skeleton-faced man dancing with a young and
beautiful woman! But there are moments in the score, like the Dr. Phibes theme,
where it does bring a sense of sadness.
Perservence
Records has done another great job with this release. While the material is
from a few different sources, they have done a fine job digitally mastering them
here. Once again, it's nice to see another small label doing such great work
for fans of these types of movies. The disc comes with a 20-page insert that is
filled with notes from the composer, the director and also some great artwork
from the movie.
AEON
FLUX
23 Tracks, with a total running time of 59:30 min.
Composed by Graeme Revell
Now this is a film that is perfect for Revell's
musical style. Revelle has a great unique industrial style of music, which fits
perfect for this new sci-fi flick. While we haven't seen the movie, Revelle
music gives us our own visions of cyberpunk action. Revelle is at his best with
his fast paced, rhythmic beats, fused with strange synthetic sounds filling the
your ears.
But while he does his best with the faster action pieces, he is still able
to slow things down enough and create some great mood pieces, even to the point
of creepiness. And even more so, he can combine the two, the eerie slow pieces
and the techno-beats, to create a piece of music that can have the action, but
also build the tension. And that is something special.
The only question I have of Mr. Revelle, is why the hell wasn't contacted to
do the soundtrack for UNDERWORLD!?!?!
ALIEN
TERRAIN
11 tracks, with a total running time of 41 mins.
Composed by Demetri Fox
This is another release from Darren
Callahan's Phantom
Soundtracks. These are soundtracks to movies that never existed.
But that doesn't mean they are not as entertaining if they were from an actual
movie. What they do is come up with a concept for a movie, a brief
outline, even casting actors for photos shoots, then create a soundtrack for
that film.
This time out, they create a more subdue, slow and quiet, but
eerie score for a possible alien encounter movie. Staring out with a
piercing piano (which is always a good way to get my attention), the music
slowly starts to surround you with this combination of piano and electronic
sounds, almost like feedback, giving it an strange combination of a melody but
with something futuristic trying to take over or intrude.
Being very reminiscent of the early works of Howard Shore,
this is one score that is wonderful to be playing in the background while
reading, working on the computer, or just for a little ambience to put you in
the mood for something different, something possibly un-worldly, but something
can calm and quiet your nerves while at the same time, making you wonder of the
possibilities of what just might going on.
THE
AMITYVILLE HORROR
17 Tracks, with a total running time of 61:02 min.
Composed and Conducted by Lalo Schifrin
We recently got this soundtrack and am simply amazed
that we never had gotten this years before. Schifrin has done an incredible job
of creating a truly creepy and scary score. Listening to this now, reminds me
of so many other scores, that came out way after this movie.
This score shows just how more effective a movie can be with the right
score. This adds so much to the film, with it's eerie strings and choir
singing. And even listening to it on it's own, still gives you the feeling of
tension and horror.
This is one score that if you are a fan of soundtracks, and don't have this
one, you need to order it now. This is simply a must for horror soundtrack
fans. They don't get much better than this one.
BEING
HUMAN
24 Tracks, with a total running time of 45:39 min.
Released by Silva Screen Music
Music by Richard Wells
We've been a fan of this British series
for about a year now and have really enjoyed it. It is funny, sad,
thrilling, and even a bit scary at times. So when we got the soundtrack
for the first two seasons (sorry...series, since that is what they are called in
the UK), we were pleasantly surprised to see that the score follows those
emotions as well. There are plenty of tracks that give you that somber and
almost reflective feelings that occur during the more serious and quieter
moments in the series, while others are louder and faster, for the action-based
scenarios. One of my favorites here is the 4th track, A Wonderful Thing,
which shows the emotional aspect of the show perfectly.
There are also tracks that are not really music as much as
background soundscapes, usually creating the mood of tension or uneasiness.
But each fit perfectly into what we are seeing on screen without overpowering
the viewer. That is the making of a great soundtrack.
We were not really that familiar with Wells name, but
discovered some other horror films in his filmography that we are going to have
to check out now. For more information about this soundtrack, head over to
Silva Screen Music.
For more information about Wells, you can get to his official website by
clicking HERE.
BLACKTHORN
ASYLUM
By Nox Arcana
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 1:03:13 min.
With their 10th outing, Nox Arcana once
again takes the listener on an audio journey, but this time it's through the
darkened hallways of an old abandoned sanitarium, Blackthorn Asylum. All
of the terror, the loneliness, and cries of madness that filled the walls while
it was opened, continue to do so years after it was closed down. All one
has to do is listen.
With their latest eerie soundscape, Nox Arcana hits many
different levels throughout this release. We have the slow and melodic
piano echoing through the darkened halls, but also have some more faster paced
themes that fit different aspects of the unfortunate souls that were doomed to
remain there. Each track gives us a small insight at some of the horrors
that were experienced at this place, even if those experiences happened only in
someone's mind. The terror is none the less...real.
For more information about this CD, or any of the other Nox
Arcana CD's just head over to their website by clicking
HERE. And make sure
you tell them we sent you!
BLOOD
OF THE DRAGON
By Nox Arcana
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 1:06:11 min.
With this release, Nox Arcana takes us on a journey to
the time and land of dragons and the mighty warriors who sought to destroy
them. While this CD doesn't have the usual 'horror' theme, which is what we
normally prefer, BLOOD OF THE DRAGON has enough darkness flowing through it to
appease any horror fan.
What amazing me the most is the epic sound of this release. Not to downplay
their previous releases, but this one seems much more on a grander scale, coming
up with many different layers of sound and music. I could easily see this as a
soundtrack for many a sword & sorcery or barbarian movies. The different tracks
bring to life various journeys and quests for the dragon, filling the listener
with visions of smoky caves, wide open & barren lands, and even different
cultures.
While we still love the horror themed ones, I feel that BLOOD OF THE DRAGON
is their biggest and best sounding album yet. Just listen to it and you can
almost smell the burning smoke from the Dragon itself.
BORN OF THE NIGHT
By Midnight Syndicate. An Entity Production
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 47:51 min.
After a few attempts by my nephew for me to give these
Midnight Syndicate guys a spin, I finally gave in and purchased their first cd,
BORN OF THE NIGHT. It only took one play on the computer for me to realize I
had been missing out on these guys.
BORN is a like a soundtrack to a horror movie, but without the movie. The cd is
filled with gothic and atmospheric music. So much so that I was half expecting
to have fog start to seep out of my computer. From haunting piano and
keyboards, to eerie strings, to the little background sounds hiding behind the
music, this is one great cd. Whether you need something for your Halloween
party, or just something to set the mood, this disc does just that and more.
THE
BUTTERFLY EFFECT
Released in 2004, by La-La Land Records
24 Tracks, with a running time of 43:44 min.
Composed by Michael Suby
Uncertainty. That's the feeling I get from this
music. Some soundtracks give off a feeling of uneasiness, or a creepy feeling.
But what Suby comes up with here is to bring a feeling of uncertainty. Like
you're not sure...Not sure of what's going on...Not sure of what's going to
happen...or maybe even where you are...uncertainty. At times the themes are
soothing, but there seems to be a undertone of something hidden or something out
of your control.
With the slow and haunting strings, and the quiet sounds of the piano, Suby
gives us a very interesting score here. It's not one that has themes or catchy
sequences, but one that is just plays in the background, setting a great mood.
La-La Land Records has done another great job with this release. It comes
with a 6-page booklet that contains notes from the writers / directors, and
photos from the movie.
CABIN
FEVER
Released in 2003, by
La-La Land
Records
32 Tracks, with a running time of 1:16:30 min.
Composed by Nathan Barr and Angelo Badalamenti
Normally, I'm not a big fan of soundtracks that have
source music, especially when they use modern day hard rock. So I wasn't
especially happy to hear that this soundtrack was going to have not only an
original score, but source music as well. But fortunately, the source music
only takes up a small part of the cd. I'm sure the music works well in the
film, but I just didn't care for it listening to it on the cd. And it's not
really this particular soundtrack, just that I prefer my movie soundtracks to be
original scores.
But for the original score here, I was very impressed. This is one of those
scores that is not really about melodies or themes as much as just about plain
atmosphere, and very creepy atmosphere at that. This soundtrack would be
perfect to be played outside during Halloween night to give those
trick-or-treaters an added thrill. It gives off a great feeling of eeriness and
the mood that something is just not right, or that something is about to
happen...something bad. Barr and Badalamenti have come up with what a horror
soundtrack should sound like.
I haven't seen the movie yet, but hearing this gives me high hopes that the
director seems to be going for the genuine scariness in the movie, way more so
than your average horror movie these days.
The 6-page booklet comes with notes from the director and composer Barr, who
discuss how the project came about, and working together on it. The retail
price is $15.98, and be purchased through their website.
CAPTAIN KRONOS: VAMPIRE HUNTER
Released in 2007, by GDI Records
37 tracks, with a total running time of 59:37 min.
Composed & Conducted by Laurie Johnson
I can't think of another company that
has continued to put out amazing releases each time....for movies that are all
over 25+ years old! GDI has continued to release these CDs of classic
Hammer movies, and this one is no different. The sound is amazing, the
booklet has an small introduction by Caroline Munro, and a very informative
essay by Randall D. Larson, entitled Slayage in the Dark Ages: Music and Myth in
Captain Kronos.
But the real reason were here is the music. If you are
a fan of this movie, then you do need this score. Like the movie, it is
filled with action, drama, romance, and of course suspense, terror and horror.
It is a Hammer film after all.
This in a limited edition of only 2000 copies. So if
you are interested in this title, I strongly suggest you order it now. You
can order them from
Screen Archives Entertainment.
CARNIVAL
OF LOST SOULS
by Nox Arcana, 2006
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 102.53 min.
Last time out, Nox Arcana took us on a journey through
the Carpathian mountains with their TRANSYLVANIA cd. But with their latest
release, we don't have to go that far. Instead, we are taken to a place that is
as close as the next town, but often more scary than any distant country. And
that would be a carnival.
But don't just expect some simple twisted circus music here. Yes, there are
some creeping organ and carousel music. But there is much more. As always,
they give us that great gothic atmosphere that just seeps out from the
speakers. It's almost like you're actually traveling with this carnival
throughout the country. Each musical piece gives us images of this dark and
brooding carnival, one that you wouldn't want to be at alone at night. Whether
you're caught in the Hall of Mirrors, getting your fortune read by Madame Endora,
avoiding the Snake Charmer, or just trying to escape the Theatre of Sorrows, you
will soon realize you can't escape this nightmare.
Nox Arcana have once again created a haunting musical score that had me
thinking of Ray Bradbury's Something Wicked This Way Comes. And with this
release, something wicked is coming. And it' waiting for you to join them. But
as the warning states in the opening, "There's no turning back."
CARNIVAL
OF SOULS
Released 1998, by Birdman Publishing
37 Tracks, with a total running time of 49:14 minutes
Composed by Gene Moore
One of the reason that CARNIVAL OF SOULS is a haunting
and chilling movie is because of the soundtrack. With quite a bit of the movie
not having any dialog, the music plays an important part there. And with most
of the music coming from an organ, it gives it even more of a creepy feeling.
Well, this soundtrack brings all of that creepiness out just by playing it.
There are a few sound clips from the movie which adds nicely to the whole
package. The organ music is like out twisted dream that one might have while
falling asleep in a small church.
Even if you're not a big fan of this movie, this is a great soundtrack.
It's one where the atmosphere just seeps out of the speakers. Highly
recommended.
CHILD'S
PLAY
Released in 2009, by La-La Land Records
14 Tracks, with a total running time of 64:56 min.
Music Composed by Joe Renzetti
Oscar winning composer Renzetti
delivers a synth score that hits all the bases. There is a lot of slower
atmosphere pieces that are intertwined with the more action based themes.
Not a score of just eerie sounding keys, Renzetti balances out with the
louder and faster paced music. But one problem with had is that a lot of
music is just a low rumbling of sound, with maybe some other notes or sounds
coming in and out. This usually is something that we would enjoy, being of
the atmospheric type. But since it's more background noise or vibration,
it just didn't hold our attention for that long. With the action picks up,
and the music follows, then we have more entertaining and engrossing score.
So this one is really a mixed-bag for us.
But the CD does come with a 14-page book with liner notes by
Brian Satterwhite, who talks about the film. There is also a breakdown of
the tracks with Renzetti explaining what the music is doing in the film.
CHILLERAMA:
ZOM-B-MOVIE
Released in 2011 by BuySoundtrax
16 Tracks with total running time of 60:48 min.
Music by Bear McCreary
McCreary
We've been a big fan of McCreary since we
got hold of his scores for WRONG TURN 2 and REST STOP: DON'T LOOK BACK. So
we were excited to give this new score a try and see what he has come up with
now. What amazed me the most about this score was it's diversity
throughout the CD. We were used to McCreary's scores being
somewhat...simple. Effective, but not a big sounding or even classically
orchestrated. This is not meant as a complaint since as we've said, we
love some of the work he's done. So hearing this soundtrack, I was very
surprised to see such a wide range of musical styles here.
The main title
track sounds like a cross between a early sci-fi horror movie, but then builds
into something much broader. Using what sounds mostly like an electronic
score for the first few tracks, McCreary still makes it sound bigger than it is.
It really shows off his skill as a composer to come up with something very new,
and yet make it sound so familiar to fans of those older films.
For the Deathication track, McCreary takes us back to
a time of blaxiploition films, or at least that is the feeling I got. I
haven't seen the film yet, so I'm sure the context in the film, but that sure
sounds like it. But then we have a slower piano and flute track that is
somber and soothing. But then we get to Fugue in Z Minor and it
sounds like something Bach did in between composing! Great stuff.
The CD does have a track or two of original songs, which are
humorous and probably work well in the movie, but we tend to forget about those
kinds of tracks on soundtracks.
So even if you haven't see this movie yet, I would go out on
a limb and suggest you pick up this one. It is a throwback to some old
style of soundtracks, and once again shows me the sheer talent of Bear McCreary.
CONAN
THE BARBARIAN
Released in 1982, by Varese Sarabande
16 Tracks, with a running time 1:07:52 min.
Composed and conducted by Basil Poledouris.
Granted, this is not really a horror movie, but in my
opinion, this is one of the most incredible & powerful movie scores out there.
This is the type of soundtrack that has the power to bring back the emotions
from the film, where you can almost feel the action that is going on during the
music. Granted, it might also have something to do with the fact of how many
times I've seen this movie. But none the less...
With loud, thundering drums, blaring horns, and the chanting choir, this is
one unforgettable score. The score adds so much feeling to the movie, but also
brings those same emotions on it's own. That is the sure sign of a great
score. You can almost feel the ground shake with the oncoming horses in the
opening 'Riders of Doom' or the blood being spilled during the track 'Battle on
the Mounds'.
The cd insert comes with a brief 2-page history of how the score came
about. Of course, this comes highly recommended.
CREEPSHOW
Released in 2003, by La-La Land Records
14 Tracks, with a running time of 1:06:49 min.
Composed and performed by John Harrison
George Romero and
Stephen King made this movie as homage to the old EC comics from the 50’s, such
as Tales From The Crypt and Vault of Horror. Well, listening to John Harrison’s
score for this movie is just like reading through the comics yourself. The
eerie sounds both in and around the music is incredible.
If
one was looking for a soundtrack that sounds like it’s from a horror movie, then
this is the one. But that’s not just saying that Harrison came up with your
basic spooky sounding music. Well, he did. But he made it better than that
average spooky music…much better. What this soundtrack does is just seep
atmosphere. From the evil laughing, the haunting piano, and the growls, this is
loaded with the power to bring those chills to the listener.
This soundtrack was never released in the States on CD, and has been a
highly sought after title for quite some time. If you were one of those who
plopped down up to $50 for the Japanese import, I feel sorry for you. Since now
thanks to La-La Land Records, you can get this awesome soundtrack for only
$17.00.
Plus this version has extras from composer John Harrison. It features three
suites from the TV show Tales From The Darkside that he directed and composed
the music. They include "Satanic Piano", "Everybody Needs A Little Love", and
"Sorry, Right Number". There is also some music that Harrison composed for
George Romero projects that never came to pass.
The CD comes with a 10-page booklet, that has notes from Harrison, Romero,
and also a short article by Randall D. Larson about the score.
Even without the extras, this soundtrack really is a must for a collector.
I know I seem to say that a lot, but this really is one of my favorite scores.
You can order it directly from La-La Land Records website by clicking
here.
CRYPT
OF THE VAMPIRE (aka LA CRIPTA E L'INCUBO)
Released in 2011 by Digitmovies
23 Tracks, with a total running time of 48:59 min.
Music composed and conducted by Carlo Savina
We recently
picked up this new release from Digitmovies, even though we didn't really
remember the score from the movie. So why did we buy it? Because we
know that these films usually had a great gothic sounding score for them.
And we were not let down at all.
Savina created some incredible mood and atmosphere with his
score for this 1964 film, which starred Christopher Lee. Using all of the
usual trappings of these types of movies, from the harpsichord to the strange sounds that
can come emit from an grand old organ. But the score is well rounded with
love themes as well as the darker brooding themes. Of course, those are
the ones that we enjoy the most.
Digitmovies has created a great release here, not only
releasing the complete score in full stereo for the first time, but also for allowing these
amazing scores to be archived and saved for future gothic film fans to listen to
and enjoy. Kudos to them and we hope that they keep up the great work!
CRY
WOLF
Released in 2005, by Lakeshore Records
27 tracks, with a total running time of 55:05 min.
Music by Michael Wandmacher
Here's another
first for us. I had recently reviewed the film CRY WOLF, and thought it was
just okay. But the one thing that really stood out to me was original score.
That's a tough thing to happen, when you are paying more attention to the score
to then what's going on in the movie. But I think that shows how effective this
score is. I wasn't familiar with Wandmacher's name, but had heard of some of
the films that he had worked on.
I think what sets this score apart from others is it's simplicity. It
reminded me kind of John Carpenter's early scores, when you didn't need a lot of
music or noise going on to set the mood. And here, Wandmacher does just that.
Using simple notes on a keyboard or a little cello or violin (I think?) gives
some great mood pieces here.
This is a great score to just put on for some background music, creating
some great atmosphere. Simply put, this is one of the best scores I've heard in
quite some time. Unfortunately, it's pretty tough to find, unless you go
online. But make sure you get this soundtrack, and not the one that music
"based on" the movie. Make sure it's this graphic, and says "Original score".
DARK
NIGHT OF THE SCARECROW
Released in 2011, by 2M1 Records.
17 Tracks with a total running time of 39 min.
Music Composed by Glenn Paxton
It seemed to take forever to have this movie finally get an
actual release on DVD, so we were very surprised to see that the soundtrack had
also been released. Most people remember this movie from their childhood
as being one of those films that scared them to death when they first seen it on
TV. So much so that it became this lost cult classic. So listening
to this new soundtrack from this film that we love so much, it is amazing how
much feeling and atmosphere from the film comes out in the music.
There is nothing over the top here. Nothing fast and
furious. Just a simple score, with a minimal use of instruments that
creates an eeriness and suspense to the listener. Not real melodies or
themes here, but just a quiet and moody sounds that work quite well on their
own, not to mention how well they work in the movie. This is a great score
to be having playing in the background if you just want to some mood music.
We weren't familiar with Glenn Paxton's work that much, but
since he did a lot of TV stuff in the '70s, I'm sure I've heard his stuff many
times before.
For more information about this CD, head over to
2M1 Records. Make
sure you tell them we sent you!
DARK
SHADOWS (2012)
Released in 2012, by WaterTower Music
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 52 mins.
Music Composed Danny Elfman
Well, after the hope we gained after Elfman's WOLFMAN score,
it seems we are back to where we before it. His score for the latest Tim
Burton remake is will probably fit nicely with the film. But as a stand
alone score, I don't feel that it stands out at all. It seems very
generic. Coming from Elfman, who has made his share of gothic themed
scores, I really had hoped that he would have come up with something more...dark
and interesting. Not this time.
The work that Robert Colbert did for the original series
still holds up today as some of the best gothic themed music around. So
why Elfman didn't at least try to use some of that as influence for his score is
beyond me. Again, this is not a bad score. But you can listen to it
a 2-3 times and complete forget what you just heard. And to me, a great
film score is one that you leave the theater with the themes and melodies still
in your head.
Guess Elfman is back on the generic train once again.
Hopefully it is a short trip.
DAWNING
Released in 2011, by Screamworks Records
10 Tracks, with a total running time off 30:14 mins.
Music Composed by Nathaniel Levisay
It seems more and more that we are getting to review
soundtracks way before being able to see the movies. What this does is
allow one to focus on the actual music, as opposed to the film itself. So
then we look at these just as an original piece of music, hopefully creepy
enough for our dark tastes. And we have found this in Levisay's DAWNING.
This score features many different themes that we found both
creepy and suspenseful. We always love hearing a piano, which can always
add a eeriness to a score, which they do quite well here with the main title.
But using more sounds (almost a touch of industrial) than actual music, Levisay
creates an uneasiness that will put the listener on edge. Something is
just not right and the music is emphasizing that feeling. From
reverberating banging, to thundering pounding, to the echo of a piano key,
Levisay has created a unique blend of music and an atmospheric soundscape.
We're looking forward to what Levisay will do next in the
horror genre.
DARK
HOLLOW
Released in 2006, by Lame Duck Digital
11 tracks, with a total running time of 52.58 min
Music composed and performed by Virgil Franklin
We're always a
sucker for that echoing sounds of a piano. Throw that in with some creepy
organs and strings and you've got my attention. Virgil is a one man show here,
creating some nice and moody atmosphere with his music. Though it's pretty
simple, he still delivers the chills, and sticks to what's creepy. Don't get me
wrong, when I say simple, I mean basic. Nothing really fancy here, or over
produced. Just some great echoing sounds of piano, strings, and organs, all
blending together to raise those hairs on the back of your neck.
This is great for some nice music to be playing in background, a Halloween
party or event, or simply just because. You can check out his website
HERE for more info.
THE DARK TOWER
by Nox Arcana, 2011
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 65 min.
It has been
over a year since we got to take a musical journey into the unknown, with Nox
Arcana leading the way. But since Joseph Vargo is busy doing so much, with
many other projects. Two of those had come together in the form of an
anthology of stories based on his artwork. Vargo, along with several other
writers contributed 13 tales of gothic traditions. So what does this have
to do with this CD? Simple. Because Nox Arcana has created a
soundtrack for this book. Each of the 21 tracks features a theme from one
of the stories. Such as Vampire's Kiss or Dark Desire, this cd gives you
an audio accompaniment to the stories as you read them.
And just like all of Nox Arcana's work, as you play the cd,
you are waiting for the fog to slowly seem out of your speakers, filling the
room with a dark mist, waiting for a dark intruder to enter. From the use
of echoing pianos, to the haunting voices, they have again created a very
memorable piece of music. We get a range of music, from the slow and
eerie to the more fast paced, tension building pieces. Like all of their
work, this comes highly recommended.
You can read more about this CD and Vargo's other
work/projects by going to their official site
HERE.
DEAD SILENCE
Released by Lakeshore Records
30 Tracks, with a total running time of 45>07 min.
Music composed and preformed by Charlie Clouser
Okay, so
I'm a sucker for a nice eerie piano theme. But right off the bat, while
watching this movie, the score really stood out for me. Taking similar
themes from Carpenter and Mike Oldfield's Tubular Bells, Clouser has created
another haunting score. This piano melody flows throughout the whole
score. Even when the music starts to pick up and get a little bit
more intense, we still have that creepy melody oozing through.
While we were huge fans of this movie, I still immediately
when out and picked up this score. It's that powerful and noticeable while
watching the movie, that really adds to the chilling-ness of the film, making it
a lot more creepy than it would have been without this music.
This comes highly recommended. One of the best scores
that I've heard in a long time.
THE
DEADLY SPAWN
Released in 2005, by Perseverance Records
12 Tracks, with a total running time of 44:20 min.
Music composed, arranged, and produced by Michael Perilstein
I couldn't believe that
someone would actually release a soundtrack CD for this low budget film. But
Perseverance Records once again releases titles that one would never expect to
see coming out. And as usual, they do a great job again.
Like the film itself, the score is a little low budget. Nothing fancy here
folks, but just some good old fashion music from an electronic organ (or
something like it). But don't let that fool you. Composer Perilstein manages
to come up with a some cool music and themes for this 80's video classic. I
don't think this is a film that you'd want some 60-piece orchestra playing.
From the opening sounds of The Landing Of The Meteorite, it brought back some
wonderful images of the beginning of the movie. The soundtrack also comes with
a 12 minute montage of themes from the original score with newer stuff that
might have been for a possible sequel.
The CD also comes with a 12-page insert that contains an interview with
special fx and monster maker John Dods, some very strange horror-scopes, and an
even stranger "about the composer" section. Plus the 12 pages are filled with
wonderful images from this little classic.
Huge kudos to
Perseverance Records for putting out something so obscure, for fans like me
who just love this kind of stuff. This truly shows that they are doing this for
the love of these films, which is always a great thing.
THE
DEVIL RIDES OUT
Released in 2000 by GDI Records
28 tracks with a total running time of 1:01:26 minutes
Music composed by James Bernard
Any fan of
Hammer films should know the name of James Bernard. If not, start taking
notes. Bernard was one of the main guys responsible for making Hammer
films sound like they did. He created the music that surrounded the
incredible colorful images that we were watching. Probably his most famous
score was that of HORROR OF DRACULA (just DRACULA in the UK) where he would use
the name of the film to create the main theme. The music is one of the
things that let audiences know they were watching a Hammer film.
With DEVIL RIDES OUT, Bernard gives us another classic Hammer
score, filled with loud thundering tones, along with the quieter sounds of
pianos and horns. Bernard uses his talents to create another score that
fits perfectly with the action that we are watching on screen. It helps
build the tension and atmosphere perfectly.
This release also included a 11 minute interview with star
Christopher Lee as he talks about this film. While these CDs are way out
of print and not the easiest to find, if you can find one, any Hammer Films
soundtracks are a must for a serious collector.
THE
DEVIL'S REJECTS - Original Score
Released by La-La Land Records
24 Tracks, with a total running time of 59:28 min.
Composed by Tyler Bates
"The power of music in a
film is an amazing thing", says Rob Zombie in his intro in the soundtrack's
booklet. And he couldn't be more right than that. He understands very well
just how important the music can be in a film. For his follow up to HOUSE OF
THE 1000 CORPSES, he decided to have someone else do the soundtrack instead of
himself. And with Tyler Bates, I think he made a great choice.
Since the movie has it's share of song music, Bates score is mainly mood
pieces and use to add and amplify the atmosphere of the film. And he does an
excellent job doing just that. Filled with strange types of music and sounds,
Bates gives us a different type of score. This isn't your ordinary orchestrate
sounding music, but lots of weird and eerie sounds come through the speakers
when listening to this. Great for something to play in the background while
working on the computer (as I am while I'm writing this), or whatever.
And as usual, La-La Land has done an excellent presentation with this
release. The booklet comes with an introduction by Rob Zombie, as well as some
notes from Bates. The rest of the booklet is filled with some great photos from
the movie.
You can order this from La-La Land's
website.
THE DEVIL'S REJECTS - Dual Disc Soundtrack
Released by Hip-O Records
29 Tracks, with a total running time of 1:04:56
Various Artists
In a great companion
piece to the original score soundtrack, there is also the soundtrack with the
music from the movie. Fans of the 70's rock with a southern twinge to it will
love it. Zombie has done a great job combining these songs within his movie.
And now you can have the "greatest hits' from the REJECTS movie.
The one great thing about this movie is that Zombie has now made it possible
for me to listen to Freebird again. I was so sick of that song due to the radio
overplay, but now, with the images from the movie flashing through my head, I am
no longer turning off the song. Thanks Rob.
But besides Freebird, you also have other classics like the Allman Brothers
Band's Midnight Rider, Shambala by Three Dog Night, Joe Walsh's Funk #49, and
many more. You also have little audio bits from the movie in between each song,
which are great.
This soundtrack is available without the audio bits, and just with the
songs. Or you can get this dual disc release which has the songs and audio
bits, as well as a DVD side to the disc. This features a great 20 minutes of
behind-the-scenes from the movie. There's little interviews, footage of the
movie being made, and all sorts of cool stuff. It also has trailers and
photos. If you play the soundtrack on your computer from the DVD side, it will
play a slideshow of shots from the movie. Very cool.
So, obviously, if you are a fan of the movie, you will want both scores.
But I see this one being the most popular.
DON'T BE AFRAID OF THE DARK
Released by Lakeshore Records
21 Tracks with a total running time of 54 movies
Music by Marco Beltrami & Buck Sanders
This is a
tough one, folks. A movie score can do many things. It can enhance
and heighten what is going on the screen, almost amplifying it. Or it can
play in the background, very moody and quiet and not really noticed, unless it
wasn't there. This score is the later. It is a fine piece of music,
don't get me wrong. But since we haven't seen the film yet, we are solely
basing our review on the music on it's own, which we always try to do anyway.
There are some fine pieces of music here, some even having sort of a lullaby
sound to them, or maybe even a fairy tale quality. Other tracks that are a
little more fast paced and louder will surely help build the action and tension
that i happening on the screen. But as a stand alone soundtrack, it is not
that memorable.
Beltrami & Sanders do well in creating a score that is quiet
and soothing for the most part, loud and faster at times, which you can almost
picture what is happening in the movie. We were just hoping for something
a little bit more.
DRAG
ME TO HELL
Released by Lakeshore Records
14 Tracks, with a total running time of 52:33 min.
Music Composed by Christopher Young
Ever
since he's score for Hellraiser, we've been a fan of Christopher Young. He
never ceases to create an audible journey with his music. At the time of
this review, we had not seen this movie yet, so are reviewing it on the score
alone and not how it works within the film.
From the first track, we were a little worried since it
sounded a lot like something that Danny Elfman had done for Raimi on his earlier
works, especially Darkman or some super-hero theme motif. But luckily, it
was just that first track. The rest of the score Young creates some
beautiful and eerie music at the same time. Combining chilling piano and
shrieking violins, he creates a very effective score. There are plenty of
slow pieces as well as some more background soundscapes.
As expected, Young has not disappointed us with his latest
horror score.
DR.
PHIBES RISES AGAIN
Released by Perseverance Records
29 Tracks, with a total running time of 45:10 min.
Composed and Conducted by John Gale
Perseverance Records have done a great job with their
release of this little rarity. This soundtrack is like a mixture of many types
of musical styles. There are pieces from the big band era, some classical
pieces, and some that are damn close to opera. But that is just what composer
John Gale was going for when writing the music for the film. Hearing some of
these brought back some fond memories from the movie, especially hearing Phibes
sing the beginning of "Under The Rainbow", which was missing from most prints
for a very long time.
The cd comes with a 10-page booklet where we get to hear from the director
Robert Fuest, and also the composer himself, John Gale. Gale talks about how he
came to be part of the film, and also what ideas he came up with and why. It's
a very interesting little read.
I must also give a lot of praise to Robin Esterhammer and Perseverance
Records for taking the time and effort to put out a title that some might not
think would be a commercial success. But like a lot of us, apparently is a true
fan of the genre and of the music from it. We are looking forward to what else
they can put out in the future.
CRY OF THE BANSHEE / EDGAR ALLAN POE SUITE / HORROR EXPRESS
Released by Citadel
14 Tracks, with a total running time of 61:58 min.
Composed & Conducted by Les Baxter and John Cacavas
This CD is a real gem, for it has music
from three different films, and all are worth having in your collection.
The first four tracks are the music that Les Baxter did for AN EVENING WITH
EDGAR ALLAN POE, starring Vincent Price. These were a series of little
one-man plays that Price did based on Poe's stories. Baxter does a great
job enhancing what is going on with Price in the film, but even by itself, you
can still feel a strong dark presence of mystery and horror.
The 5 track is over 19 minutes long and is a suite from CRY
OF THE BANSHEE, also done by Baxter. Because of the long running time, the
music goes through many different moods and themes. But all of them a joy
to listen to, especially if you're fond of the older and classic style from that
era.
But the last 9 tracks are from HORROR EXPRESS, by John
Cacavas. I have to say that even though I do enjoy the work that Baxter
has on this CD, Cacavas gives us one of my favorite scores. While only
lasting about 15 minutes, the music has a very recognizable and memorable score.
Both beautiful and haunting, it sticks in your head long after the music has
stopped. Couldn't recommend this CD enough.
EFFECTS
Released by La-La Land Records, 2005
22 tracks, with a total running time of 40.25 min.
Music by John Harrison
Okay, first of all, we've been a fan of Harrison's
music ever since the first time when heard the score for CREEPSHOW. It's still
one of our favorites. But EFFECTS is a very different type of movie than the
creepy and standard horror movie than CREEPSHOW, and was made several years
before.
As he does in most of the scores we're familiar with, Harrison shows that
you don't need a huge orchestra or a lot of music to set the mood. With
something just as simple as a piano or organ or even drums, Harrison creates
some great and moody music. In the movie EFFECTS, you're not really sure if
what we're seeing is the movie-within-the-movie, or in the movie itself. And
his score blends into that nicely, just adding that slightly uneasy feeling to
the mood.
As always, La-La Land has put out another great release. This one does have
some what I would call novelties on the score, such as some radio commercials
and music heard in the movie that Harrison also wrote. But even with only a 40
minute running time, there are some great bits of music in here. More and more,
I am impressed with Harrison's scores. He shows what talent can do, even if you
don't have the big budget or orchestra behind you.
THE FOG
Released by Varese Sarabande
8 Tracks, with a running time of 34:01 min.
Composed and performed by John Carpenter
This is probably the most sought after score of
Carpenter's, next to HALLOWEEN of course. It features the same style of music
that Carpenter is known for, lots of repetitive notes. But that is not a
criticism. Carpenter has always been able to come up with a theme that fits
perfectly into his films. HALLOWEEN is a perfect example. Something very
simply, but works wonders.
With THE FOG, Carpenter does it again. But instead of building mainly
suspense as he did with the HALLOWEEN score, here the score emits atmosphere
that comes rolling out, just like the title character in the film.
Even with the success of HALLOWEEN, and that music being so recognizable, I
still prefer this score. It's a lot more subtle, and always enjoying to hear.
The insert contains a 2-page history of the film and score by Carpenter
himself. Can't go wrong here. A must for the collection.
THE FOG
'05
Released 2005 by Varese Sarabande
19 Tracks, with a total running time of 39:20 min.
Music by Graeme Revell
Taking of the task of composing a score for a classic
remake is one thing. But when the original score was done by John Carpenter,
that makes that task even more of a daunting one. But instead of trying to
duplicate the original score, Revell treads out on his own feet.
We've been a fan of Revell's since his incredible score for THE CROW. We
assumed the sound of that score was due to the feel of the movie. But Revell's
style seems to be more industrial than most, not using conventional orchestra
sounds. And this gives him a distinct style.
I think that his style works better in films like THE CROW then here in THE
FOG. But that being said, Revell is still able to create some good atmosphere
with this score. The 'chilling-ness' that Revell brings through this music is
not like your ordinary 'haunting' score. He creates that same feeling but with
the squeaking, screeches, bumps and grumbling, with a little piano to heighten
the effect even more.
So regardless of what you thought of this remake, you might want to give
this a whirl. You might enjoy it. I know we have.
FORGET
ME NOT
14 Tracks, with a total running time of 19:55 min.
Music by Elia Cmiral
We've enjoyed Cmiral's work many times
before on films like Splinter. For this horror/thriller film, he uses a
combination of quiet piano themes with some stronger and louder industrial type
music. The piano themes, and even the other slower tracks really let the
atmosphere sneak through, giving an almost dream like background. But when
the techno style kicks in, it changes the feeling and mood of what we've been
listening to. I'm sure if fits in the movie, but as a score alone, it's
kind of jumpy, going from one style to the next.
We really did enjoy the moodier background theme, which would
be great to listen when you want to relax and just veg-out. But it seemed
that the faster paced pieces were just too much of a jump to the opposite side,
which we found distracting. It also didn't help that the score is less
than 20 minutes long. Doesn't give you a lot to go by.
But none the less, we still enjoy Cmiral's work and look
forward to his next project.
FROM
BEYOND
Released 2003 by La-La Land Records
13 Tracks, with a total running time of 46:06 min.
Music composed by Richard Band
This was one of those scores that I had the LP for,
and was sorely disappointed when I couldn't play it anymore. If I had a top ten
list, this would definitely be in there. With it's eerie strings and sounds, it
just gives off a great atmospheric and strange feeling of the bizarre. Richard
Band had composed another great score that not only really adds to the film, but
it one of those that can be listened to on it's own, and still give off that
same feeling you get when watching movie. That uneasy feeling that something
just doesn't seem right...that things are not the way they should be...that
something is coming...something FROM BEYOND!
La-La Land Records have come through again with an exceptional release of
this soundtrack. Containing almost 10 minutes that had not been previously
release, this is the definitive edition for fans of this movie. The packaging
comes with a 6-page booklet that contains some notes from Stuart Gordon and
Richard Band, as well as a brief history of Band and this score.
You can order this CD from La-La Land Records'
website.
GODZILLA:
50th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
Released 2004 by La-La Land Records
22 Tracks, with a total running time of 46:29 min.
Music composed by Akira Ifukube
Having recently seen the re-release of the original
1954 version of this uber-classic film, I was very surprised at the musical
impact the film has. Maybe it was the fact that I was able to see it in a
theater, but the music had more of an impact on me than before. Before it was
just the famous "Godzilla Theme", which I have always enjoyed. But there are
other parts of the score that are haunting (track 17 - Oxgygen Destroyer),
creepy (track 7 - Stormy Ootojima Island), and even very sad (track 20 -
Godzilla At The Ocean Floor).
La-La Land Records
releases soundtrack in a wonderful 50th Anniversary package. The score has been
digitally re-mastered, and just sounds incredible. There is also a 10-page
booklet that goes over the history of composer Akira Ifukube and his work with
the Godzilla films. There is also a nice breakdown of each track and how it was
used in the film. For fans of Godzilla, this is a no-brainer. But even for
plain fans of soundtracks, this is a very powerful score, and still amazes me
that it came out 50 years ago!
GRIMM
TALES
by Nox Arcana
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 1.05.38 min.
Once again, Nox Arcana takes us into
another dark and brooding world. Their work is like an audio time machine,
taking us to another time, as well as another world. And with this new
release, we are guided down into the dark and mysterious world of fables and
dark fairy tales. Not the nice and safe ones that have been lobotomized
over the years, but the true tales that were meant to give children nightmares,
in hopes of teaching them to beware of what is out there waiting for them in the
world.
As always, Nox Arcana does an exceptional job creating these
incredible audio backdrops for the themes they have chosen. There's no
better way to get into the mood then to play one of their CDs and to have their
wicked spell cast over you.
For information about this release and Nox Arcana, check out
their website HERE.
HALLOWEEN
HORROR HITS
25 Tracks, with a total running time of 74:22 min.
For your average horror fan, this would be
a great disc. Filled with all the classic horror themes, from the works of
John Carpenter, to the theme from The Munsters and The Addams Family, to even
the more recent True Blood series themes, this will have many images flowing
through your head. It would be great for your average Halloween party
background music.
Now that being said, if you are a serious collection of
horror film music, then you will notice right away that these are not from the
original scores, but versions done by someone else. Not they sound
terribly different....but they do sound different. And if you're use to
listening to a score over and over again, you will notice the differences.
So depending on how picky you are, you just might be able to
enjoy this. Worse case, as we said before, it would make a fun party CD.
You can purchase this CD, and many others, from
www.bysoundtrax.com
THE
HAMMER FILM MUSIC COLLECTION
- VOLUME ONE
Released in 1998, by GDI Records
25 Tracks, with a running time of 55:11 min.
Misc. composers.
Being a fan of Hammer films, I was ecstatic when I
first heard heard about GDI Records putting these out. They started out with
some compilations, and then moved on to full soundtracks. I'm sure we'll have
some of those up here soon.
But in the meantime, this was the first one that they released. The music
from Hammer Films was one of the things that made them so recognizable. Just
like they all had that Hammer "look" to them, they also had the same sound to
them. With powerful and haunting scores, the music always made an impact with
their films.
Here, there are little themes and bits from a varieties films from Hammer,
with some very recognizable themes. Such as THE DEVIL RIDES OUT or TWINS OF
EVIL. But then there are also some oddities in there, like the opening theme
song from MOON ZERO TWO, which we found extremely entertaining. They all have
been digitally restored from the original recordings and sound incredible.
The cd comes with a 14 page booklet that gives a brief history of the
musical department at Hammer, with an introduction by Roy Skeggs, one time
Chairman of Hammer Studios. You hear about names such as Philip Martel John
Hollingsworth, and of course, James Bernard. The booklet also shows who wrote
and conducted each of the pieces of music, with dates to their recordings and
film release.
I couldn't recommend this cd enough. For fans of Hammer films, and
soundtrack lovers alike, this is some of the best music from a period in time
that we will probably never see again.
THE HAMMER LEGACY: THE FRANKENSTEIN COLLECTION
Released in 2010 by Silva Screen Records
14 Tracks, with a total running time of 36 min.
Music by Various Artists
Lets see...a CD packed full of tracks from
7 different Frankenstein pictures from Hammer Films. I wonder if I'm going
to like it? Of course, if you are a Hammer fan, then you simply have to
have this CD in your collection. From the great talent like James Bernard
and the other talented musicians that Hammer hired to work on their scores, they
always made their films recognizable just from the music. When that
opening score started, you knew the kind of picture you were in for. And
now, thanks to Silva Screen for giving us Hammer fans something to listen too to
take us back to those wonderful cinematic dreams and nightmares!
The collection consists of single tracks from THE CURSE OF
FRANKENSTEIN, THE REVENGE OF FRANKENSTEIN, THE EVIL OF FRANKENSTEIN,
FRANKENSTEIN CREATED WOMAN, and HORROR OF FRANKENSTEIN. But there are 5
tracks from FRANKENSTEIN MUST BE DESTROYED and 4 from FRANKENSTEIN AND THE
MONSTER FROM HELL.
Once again, highly recommended to classic horror fans as well
as Hammer fans.
HEARTLESS
Released in 2011 by Screamworks Records
14 Tracks, with a total running time of 41:32 min.
Music by David Julyan
David Julyan impressed us already with his
subtle score for Neil Marshall's THE DESCENT. And since we hadn't seen
this film HEARTLESS yet, we were curious on the type of score we were going to
get this time out. And what we got was something very similar to THE
DESCENT, in that it for most of the score it is very quiet and in the
background. There are a lot of atmospheric elements at play here, with the
faint sound of a piano or some strings. Not really creepy or scary but
peaceful or somber most of the times. There are some more lively tracks
for more of the action based sequences of the movie.
But don't get me wrong. There still are a few tracks
that seem to have something darker trying to get through or come out. The
strings get deeper and stronger, giving you the feeling that something is out
there...and might be coming.
As we expected, Julyan delivers a score that is perfect to
have playing in the background for some nice quiet sounds, dark at times, and
almost peaceful at others.
HELLRAISER
Released in 1987 by Cinedisc
14 Tracks, with a total running time of 43:08 min.
Music composed by Christopher Young.
Christopher Young has come up with probably one of my
favorite film scores here. With this haunting score, that accompanies the film
so well, it really brings the feelings and mood of the film across so much
better. The music is very simple, but very effective.
Young has created a score that could give one the ominous feelings just by
listening to the music, even if you had never seen the film. From the eerie
strings, to the thundering gongs, or the haunting piano keys, this is simply one
great score. This comes highly recommended!
Unfortunately, this score has been long out of print. It was released a few
years back, but even that is extremely hard to come across. But if you can find
a copy, don't miss out.
THE
HILLS RUN RED
Released by Varese Sarabande
24 Tracks, with a total running time of 45:43 min.
Music by Frederik Wiedmann
Wiedmann
was not a composer that we were too familiar with, and hadn't even see this
movie yet. But a truly effective score doesn't require either of those
notions to be met to enjoy a good score. Wiedmann fills this score with a
variety of sounds and emotions. Most of them are on the slower and moody
ones, which we found most effective. There also seems to be a variety of
styles used, using both what seems like a typical orchestrated sound as well
something simpler with a basic electronic score. Both are used very
effectively, especially the slower, almost like background noises. It
gives a real eerie atmosphere to the piece. There's even a track or two
that have a bluesy feel to them, which we also enjoyed quite a bit.
The score does make us more interested to finally see the
film, to see how it plays out during the story. While Wiedmann hasn't done
that many big movie scores, we're looking forward to hearing what he will be
doing in the future.
HOSTEL
Part 3
19 Tracks, with a total running time of 54 mins.
Music by Frederik Wiedmann
Not being a fan of the HOSTEL movies, I
was looking forward to be able to listen to Wiedmann's score without having to
be distracted by the movie. The first thing that grabbed me with it was
the use of strings. Fast and in your face. Not all the tracks are
like this, but when they do take off, it is something close to listening to
heavy metal cellos. Very entertaining. This is a style that Wiedmann
uses throughout the score, which while is good, by the time we get to the end of
score, it seems to be over used.
But it not just this kind of music on this soundtrack.
There are other tracks that are more slow and even just atmospheric sounds and
noises, as oppose to actual music. He does a good job creating the feeling
of tension with the use of the strings, and other strange sounds.
Overall, I think Wiedmann has created a good score, creating
a lot of tension through the music. I'm sure in the movie, in enhances
what we are seeing on the screen. But as a stand alone score, it does seem
a bit repetitive, hearing a lot of the same style of music through. But as
I said, we find that entertaining, but not a score that we would be going to
listen to over and over.
HOUSE
OF DARK SHADOWS / NIGHT OF DARK SHADOWS
Released by Rhino, 1996
50 Tracks, with a total running time of 76 min.
Music composed and conducted by Robert Cobert
If you are even remotely a fan of the
original TV series, then you will most likely just this soundtrack. Using
themes from the series, but also creating plenty of new music and gothic
melodies, Cobert creates an amazing package for fans of these movie version of
the series. Cobert's way of creating haunting melodies and themes
really takes hold of the listener where it stays with them for quite some time.
That was the beauty of Cobert's talent. And with this packed CD, we get
plenty of those themes and cues that will take us back to sitting in front of
the television watching this bizarre soap opera that just happened to have a
vampire running about!
With his use of the piercing strings, Cobert is just about
able to make the hair on your arms stand straight up, creating such an chilling
feeling to the listener. And with that same skill, he can also creating a
beautiful love theme for the characters on the screen. That is the talent
of Robert Cobert. So once again, if you enjoy the original series and/or
the movie versions that were release in the '70s, then you need to add this disc
to your collection.
HOUSE OF NIGHTMARES
By Buzz-Works
Created by Jeff Hartz and Nox Arcana.
19 tracks, with a total running time of 44:31 min.
Once again, Jeff Hartz from Buzz-Works
teams up with Nox Arcana to create another fun trip, this time through the old
dark house of your nightmares. HOUSE OF NIGHTMARES is like a collection of
themes, noises, and sounds that could accompany the many dark and twisted
journeys our brain might take us during our sleep. There are slow and
moody pieces, as well as ones that are a little more face paced and in your
face. But all what we hear on their latest release, it really is the
soundtrack for our nightmares.
For more info, head over to
Buzz-Works.
THE HOUSE THAT SCREAMED
Released by Singular Soundtrack
16 Tracks, with a total running time of 29:40 seconds.
Music Composed, Arranged, and Conducted by Waldo de los Rios.
For this Spanish thriller, de los Rios
uses slower, more classical sounding themes here, but still varying in range and
tempo, depending on the action on the screen. Sine the film is a mystery,
there is a lot of slower and quieter paced pieces. One track in
particular, Murder at the Greenhouse, is a hauntingly beautiful piece that
really sets the mood for that piece.
Singular Soundtrack has put this soundtrack on a two disc set
that has the original score for the movie, as well as two different versions of
the score that de los Rios did for WHO COULD KILL A CHILD?
This release was only limited to a 1000 copies and be
ordered through Screen
Archives for only $19.95. For two scores of this film, plus a complete
score for another Spanish classic, that is a great price.
THE
HOWLING
Released by La-La Land Records
34 Tracks, with a total running time of 45:58 min.
Music composed by Pino Donaggio
"When I was sent the master for this CD rendition of THE
HOWLING score, I hadn't listened to that music for quite a long time. I must
tell you, I couldn't help being astonished, and pleasantly so, by the quality of
the result." - Pino Donaggio.
That quote is in the booklet that comes with the CD. I guess if the
composer is that impressed with the quality of the release, I don't think you
could as for more of a compliment. But as usual, La-La Land has always gave us
great releases, and this one is no different.
It's amazing that his long sought-after score has not had an official
release until now. Fans have been waiting for this for quite some time. This
score is all over the place as far as moods and sounds. We have some tension,
some suspense, some action, everything you could want.
So now the wait is over. Head on over to
La-La Land and
pick it up while you can. You don't want them to go out-of-print, or maybe
you'll have to wait another 25 years.
The CD comes with a 10 page booklet with an introduction by the composer,
and also a nice little article on the movie, the director and the composer.
INVASION OF THE
SAUCERMEN / IT CONQUERED THE WORLD
Released by Percepto Records
38 Tracks, with a total running time of 1:16:30 min.
Music composed and conducted by Ronald Stein
For fans of those early AIP movies, you've heard the
work of Ronald Stein. He scored a lot of pictures for them and Roger Corman
back in the early days, in the 50's and 60's. With such classic titles under
his belt like SHE-CREATURE, NOT OF THIS EARTH, SPIDER BABY, ATTACK OF THE 50ft
WOMAN, Stein was a busy man. But thanks to the fine folks of Percepto Records,
you can enjoy two of the more famous movies that Stein worked on, both on one
CD.
These scores are not your 'scary' type of music. But they do give you a
feeling of those types of movies...the old black & white sci-fi / horror films
of that time period. So while they may not send chills up your spine like some
scores do, it does bring up that feeling of enjoyment that we got (and still do)
from watching these low budget quickies.
The CD comes with a beautiful 20-page booklet that is filled with
information about the two films, as well as some great photos. You can order
this CD directly from Percepto's
website.
ISLAND OF THE FISHMAN (aka SCREAMERS)
Release by Fin de Siecle Media
13 tracks, with total running time of 35.13 min.
Music composed by Luciano Michelini
Much like the movie itself, this score
crosses many genres. Here we have themes of adventure, horror, action,
suspense, and even a love theme. This film has always been a favorite of
mine, so I was amazed to see that someone would have actually released it on CD.
Not like the jazzy / Goblin themes coming from Italy at the time, this is a
straight up orchestrated score. The themes are simple but very effective
when it comes to bringing of images from the film. Of course, it helps
when you've seen the film as many times as I have.
My only complaint for this release is that it's short,
running a little over a half hour. But none the less, in that short time,
we do get a wonderful score.
IT!
THE TERROR FROM BEYOND SPACE
Released by Monstrous Movie Music (2011)
26 Tracks, with a total running time of 36:29 min.
Music Composed by Paul Sawtell & Bert Shefter
We picked up this score recently with a
bunch of other old classics and actually thought this one would be the least
favorite of the bunch. But I have to say that we have really been enjoying
this one. Even though it is a science fiction film, the soundtrack is a
good old fashion '50s monster movie. Yeah, we get the typical 'outer
space' sounds, but it really plays well here. And if you didn't know what
movie it was from, you'd swear it could be from some haunted house movie.
The score has plenty of the loud and pounding action scenes
with use of horns and drums. This score is as much as the movie itself is.
It really can bring back memories of these types of films, the ones we grew up
with watching them on Saturday afternoon TV shows, or staying up late at night
to catch one.
Monstrous Movie Music has done a great service to movie fans
by releasing this CD. The CD includes a huge sleeve that has tons of
information about the film and the music. This CD comes highly recommended
to fans of these types of movies. And I'm sure fans of more modern day
films would get a kick out of these as well.
KING
OF THE ANTS
Released by La-La Land Records
19 Tracks, with a total running time of 34:01 min.
Music composed and performed by Bobby Johnston
When I first started to listen to this score, I was
disappointed. My taste in soundtracks are more towards the classical gothic
type scores. Plus, I'm usually not a big fan of jazz. But as I started to
listen to this score, there was something about it that really hooked into me.
And then it hit me. This guy is like the American version of Goblin. His music
isn't like normal scores. It's a series of rhythms and sounds that is blended
together, giving off some great atmosphere.
Johnston is also very unusual musician, using strange objects from bottles
to old toy pianos. This gives this score a very unique, and entertaining sound.
My only complaint about this release is that it's only a little longer than
a 1/2 hour.
As usual, La-La
Land Records has put out another great release here. If you are fans of
Goblin, then you definitely should check out this score!
KING
KONG VS GODZILLA
Released by La-La Land Records
33 Tracks, with a total running time of 1:09:57 min.
Music composed by Akira Ifukube
One of the best things about this release is that it's
not just the famous Godzilla theme that we all know and love.
La-La Land has
released a soundtrack that encompasses the movie. When this film was originally
released here in the states, most of the original music was replace, using a lot
of the score from CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON. But now, we get to hear the
original music that Ifukube had created. And like we said, the whole score. It
ranges from the famous G-theme, to the music of the natives, with their ritual
chanting, to navel marches, and everything in between.
I guess some could be disappointed because of those reason. But I
especially like when soundtracks have these complete scores. Not only does it
immortalize the composer and his music, but it gives the listener a full feel of
the entire music. It's not just the same old themes that you could have on any
other Godzilla score.
As always, La-La has done a superb job here. The disc contains a 10-page
booklet that covers the history of this film and it's score. There is also a
track by track breakdown, going into detail on what each track is about.
KING
KONG
Released by Decca Records
21 tracks, with total running time of 1:14:40 min.
Music composed by James Newton Howard
Like the movie, this score is epic. Howard runs the
gambit of genres here, hitting all the emotional points. You have some great
tension / suspense music, some nice romantic themes, and some music that just
gives off a sense of wonder. In one track, you can have your heart beating with
the same pounding beat of the music, and then in another one where the music is
so peaceful and calming.
While we are always preferring the haunting score or
creepy soundtrack, it's always nice to hear a score like this that takes us to
many different places. But unfortunately, while Howard does do an adequate job
here, the score doesn't stand out on it's own. There's seems to be nothing that
is going to have you humming the theme, or remembering a certain scene from the
movie upon hearing that piece of music. It works fine in the movie, and that's
about as far as it goes.
What happen to Howard Shore???
LAST
HOUSE ON THE LEFT (2009)
Released in 2009, by La-La Land Records
18 tracks, with a total running time of 46:42 min.
Music by John Murphy
Not being a fan of the original film,
we don't go into this new version with any sort of hope that it's going to be
good. I know that might not be the way to start out a review, but that's
just the way it is. So while we haven't seen this latest remake yet, what
we can tell you is that John Murphy's score is sure to enhance the darkened tone
that this film has. Murphy does an excellent job of combining quiet
melodies with incidental background music. The music is always in the
background, never really being loud or overpowering. But just sits behind
the action, greatly enhancing the mood of what is going on in the film.
As a soundtrack release, this is one for a dark and raining
night to really put you in the mood. This kind of score gives me a reason
to watch the remake.
LET
THE RIGHT ONE IN
Release by Moviescore Media
21 Tracks
Music composed by Johan Soderqvist
I had seen this movie before but didn't
really remember the score that much. But after getting it recently, it is
probably one of the best scores I've heard to in a long time. The slow and
somber music fits the story and the feeling of the film perfectly. What I
get from this score is the feeling of being alone and isolation, which is why it
works in the film so well. The score slowly seeps out of the speakers,
with the quietness of the main character from the movie. It's quiet, peaceful,
but yet still gives off a eerie feeling to it.
I wasn't familiar with Soderqvist's work before this, but
know that he is one that I will be looking out for. If you're looking for
something that isn't necessarily your traditional "scary" sounding score, but is
still an effective piece of music, then you definitely want to add this to your
collection.
We highly recommend this score.
LIFEFORCE
Released by BuySoundtrax
Limited 2-disc set, 46 tracks total, with a total running time of 2:23:43 min.
Music composed and conducted by Henry Mancini & Michael Hamen
Kudos to BuySoundtrax for putting out this exceptional
CD release. Mancini was originally hired to score this film, which he did. But
then the studios edited the movie of about 20 minutes, and Mancini wasn't able
to re-do the score to fit the edits. So Michael Hamen was brought in to add
additional music to fill in the gaps.
So what we get here is a great look at everything. This
CD has the complete score the way it originally was, with Mancini hitting all
emotions from action themes to slow and creepy moods. It also contains the
music that Hamen added into the edited version. And then it has the original
soundtrack release as well. So you have plenty of music to listen to here, but
also you have a chance to see the variation and differences from one score to
the other.
MAD DOCTOR OF BLOOD ISLAND
Released by Elysee Productions, 2007
34 Tracks, with a total running time of 51:56 min.
Music Composed & Conducted by Tito Arevalo
Who would ever have thought that the
soundtrack for this little cult film would ever get a CD release? I still
can't believe it. And listening to this score, it brings back the memories
and even feelings of this movie. Just the title music alone brings those
images of John Ashley getting ready to do battle with the dreaded chlorophyll
monster. In some moments, you can even feel the camera zooming in and out
at an alarming rate. What fun.
So while this might not be the soundtrack to play if you are
looking some creepy background music. But if you're looking to return to
Blood Island without having to get on a boat, or put one of the movies in, this
CD will take you there, both in mind and spirit. And you don't even need
to drink the Green Blood either!
The CD was put out in a special limited edition of only a
1000 copies. So if you are slightly interested in getting one, don't wait.
Check out there website
HERE, for
ordering details. They have done an incredible job bringing this project
to light. Since this is a cult film, we know the people behind this were
doing it for the love of the film, not for profit. And those are the kind
of people that we love to support, since they are doing it for the right
reasons. The booklet comes with 6 pages of background on the film and the
score. It also has some great photos of the film and the people behind it.
THE
MAN WHO COLLECTED FOOD
Released by Screamworks Records
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 41 min.
Music composed by Daniel Alcheh
Screamworks Records seem to be on a roll
now, releasing scores for some independent horror films that are just as good,
if not better, than the major studios. We had never heard of this film,
let alone the score or the composer Daniel Alcheh. But being a fan of
classical music in general, it was strange to hear that type of music for a
movie about obsession and cannibalism. Didn't think you'd hear those two
words together, did you?
Alcheh has created a beautiful piece of classical music that
one would expect to hear at a symphony, but instead is somehow weaved into a
movie about cannibalism. In some of the tracks, you can get that sense of
anxiousness and energy with the fast paced strings running like a rabbit's
heartbeat. Other ones are more slow, tension building and setting the mood
for something about to happen.
Overall, we really enjoyed this score, giving us a wide range
of music and styles, from the traditional classical music to some really
whimsical pieces. We believe this is Alcheh's only horror film score, but
we will be keeping any eye out for him and his work.
MASTERS
OF HORROR
Released by Immortal Records
30 tracks.
This 2 CD set comprises a literal who's who of the current wave of popular
hard rock/heavy metal music. You get 30 bands and 30 songs. While that is all
good and well, what does it have to do with the Masters of Horror show currently
airing on the Showtime cable channel? Not much except a way to market the show
towards the crowd that this music appeals to, which is generally in the teenage
and early 20's bracket of kids. Anyone who is a fan of the Masters of Horror
(coming on DVD via Anchor Bay in 2006 for those of us not fortunate to have
Showtime) show probably won't find much of interest in with these CD's unless of
course you are fan of some of the bands. I say that because their is no horror
element to any of these songs at all.
What you get are many similar sounds of angry guitars and vocals
mixed in with some clean singing melodies. While some fans do have understand
the crossover appeal of metal and horror, some of the bands here lean more
towards pop music like Andrew W. K. who contributes the song "You Will Remember
Tonight" that is pretty much a waste of space with horrible vocals mixed with
piano. Then for a truly ear splitting experience (and not in a good way!)
listen to Scary Kids Scaring Kids (easily one of the worst moniker's I've ever
heard!) who sing "What's Up Now" which is a perfect example of garbage pop music
masquerading as metal. Terrible.
What is interesting is that after listening to so many weak sounding bands
hearing Shadows Fall play "This Is My Own" it actually sounds good because it is
an example of a real metal song that stands out on a compilation set like this,
but more often than not would be another generic tune when played against other
bands of their ilk. Murder By Death's song "End Of The Road" sounds just like a
Johnny Cash tune, but the liner notes say they wrote it themselves so perhaps
they just ran out of ideas? Mastodon perform "Megalodon" live from Europe which
is one of the few bright spots on this 2 CD set if you can get past the blatant
Slayer rifferama. Buckethead's tune "We Are One" features vocals by Serj
Tankian from System Of A Down which means that the song sounds exactly like his
band which is pretty dumb if you ask me.
One highlight is In Flames who contribute "Discover Me Like Emptiness" which
is a B-side from their Soundtrack To Your Escape album. I should also say that
special mention goes to the hilarious name of Bear Vs. Shark who sing "Victoria
Iceberg" not that the song is any good, but their name cracks me up!
The packaging is great, with a unique fold-out collage of weird artwork of
screaming, tortured faces. The booklet has some notes by series creator Mick
Garris which talks about the link that horror and rock and roll share, which
makes a point to discuss John Carpenter's own music, not to mention the scores
from The Exorcist, An American Werewolf in London and The Texas Chain Saw
Massacre for example. However those films utilize music that enhances the film
you are watching, and not distracting you with sounds that take you out of the
film with music that doesn't mesh with the images you are seeing.
For a good example of having bands on the soundtrack that perfectly
accompany the film, check out The Devil's Rejects to see how it should be done.
Since I haven't seen any Masters of Horror segments yet, all I can go on is the
music spread out over these 2 CD's but I seriously doubt that any of the music
on hand here could really add atmosphere to the pictures since I'm almost
certain that money is the reason these particular bands were chosen instead of
artistic reasons. That my folks is a damn shame. Proceed with caution.
Reviewed by Dave Kosanke.
MAY and Other Selected Works
Released by La-La Land Records
32 Tracks, with a total running time of 73.00 min.
Music composed and performed by Jaye Barnes Luckett
This CD is a mixed bag for me. Having scores from 5
different movies is great, giving a taste of the different scores of each.
But the problem for me, always looking for that creepy movie score, this release
had quite a few tracks that were either songs. But...since this CD is well
over an hour long, there is still enough tracks here to appease my singular
appetite. Luckett does have some creepy melodies throughout this CD.
One track from MAY, which even features star Angela Bettis on vocals, sounds
like something from a 70's Italian film. Very cool. The brief
snippet from her score for Hooper's THE TOOLBOX MURDERS left me wanting to
hear more of it.
Over all, while there is a lot of "normal" music for my
particlar soundtrack tastes, this is a great sampler of a very talented
composer, showing that she can hit any theme style.
MIRRORS
Released by Lakeshore Records
25 Tracks
Music by Javier Navarrete
This is another great example of what a horror soundtrack
should sound like. If it's not a soundtrack that is going to have themes,
then it needs to be creepy and scary. And here, composer Navarrete does a
great job. Using a combination of piano, strings, and different themes, he
is able to create a eerie and moody feeling, and also bring some great tension
as well.
I guess my only complaint with this score is the volume
varies at times, going from something very quiet and moody to blasting strings
and drums. It is enough to startle you, that's for sure.
We loved the score he did for Guillermo del Toro's Pan's
Labyrinth, and with this score, Navarrete is definitely one to keep an eye
on....or should we say an ear on.
MIRRORS
2
Released by La-La Land Records
26 Tracks, with a total running time of 51:16 min.
Music composed by Frederik Wiedmann
Normally, a soundtrack that is very heavy on the strings,
with a little bit of piano thrown in, I would be all over it. But for some
reason, this one just didn't click with me. Is it a bad score? Not
at all. It is quite good. The problem I had is that it just didn't
stand out. I'm sure in the context of the movie, it works well, helping
set the mood. But for a good score for me, it really does need to stand on
it's own and be memorable.
We were really impressed with Wiedmann's score he did for THE
HILLS RUN RED, and really expected for him to knock our socks off again.
As we said, it is a very good score, but don't see myself listening to it on any
regular basis.
MOTHER'S
DAY
Released by Lakeshore Records, 2012
18 Tracks with a total running time of 41 min.
Music by Bobby Johnston
We first came across Johnston's music when we reviewed his
score for Stuart Gordon's KING OF THE ANTS. Reading about Johnston and his
style just amazed me. Not a traditional musician by any means, since a lot
of the sounds that he brings is from items found in every day places. But
none the less, he creates some interesting sounds and music with them. For
his music for MOTHER'S DAY, there seems to be more of a traditional score, but
there are plenty of sounds being used that you can tell are not in the
traditional sense. But he is always able to blend them together to create
a wonderful composition.
While at this time, we have not seen this film, through the
music we can feel the tension, the suspense, and the atmosphere that is being
portrayed on screen. You don't really have any repeating melodies here,
but there is a constant feeling of uneasiness that comes through the music.
With the use of strings, and the darker, more solemn feeling, Johnston has once
again created a mood piece that will blend beautifully to a film with a darker
tone. We always look forward to Johnston's work and are always amazed at
what he comes up with.
NECRONOMICON
By Nox Arcana.
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 50:03 min.
With their 2nd
release, Nox Arcana delve into the world of H.P. Lovecraft. Just like their
first release, they continue to conjure up dark and eerie images through their
music. While this one is still has the creepy atmosphere music like their first
one, to me it offered something a little different as well.
In keeping with the Lovecraft theme of the CD, there were a few tracks that
gave me the feeling of tension. Tension, not like that of suspense, but of
maybe knowing what you’ve done and now what the consequences now are. Images of
someone reading long forgotten words in some dark and drearier cellar, and then
having something, or some…thing, coming, or rising, or breaking through into
this world, seemed to pour out from the music.
So if you’re a fan of gothic and atmospheric music, add Nox Arcana’s latest
release, Necronomicon to your list. Just be careful where and when you listen
to it….in case you conjure up some unwanted guests….
You can check out their website
HERE for more
information.
NIGHT OF THE CREEPS
Released in 2009, by La-La Land Records
26 Tracks, with a total running time of 71:26 min.
Music by Barry DeVorzon
To tie in
with the recently released (and long overdue) DVD release of this movie, La-La
Land Records has given us Creep fans something even more to enjoy with this
soundtrack release. It really is amazing how simply but yet how effective
this synth score that DeVorzon had come up with. I'm usually one to prefer
a big orchestrated score, but when something is done this well, it's hard to
ignore. It blends perfectly in the movie, which does date this movie, but
in a very good way. Most of the score gives us slow and atmospheric tones,
but there are a few where the pace is picked up a bit giving us some tension.
And we even get a love theme too!
But not only does it fit well during the movie, but it is
also a great piece of mood music to listen when you want to get into a 'creepy'
mood. You can even here the sound they used for the creeps in the music.
Very cool.
The CD comes with some bonus tracks, like a couple of
alternate pieces, but also the regular music that was used within the film, such
as Duke Ellington's Solitude. There is also a wonderful 18-page
liner notes from Daniel Schweiger, filled with great photos and information
about the film and the score.
Once again, La-La Land Records has taken the time and effort
to give the fans of this cult movie something to enjoy along with the DVD
release. And for this, the fans are forever thankful!
NIGHT OF THE DEVILS
Released in 2004 by Digitmovies
24 Tracks with a total running time of 54:49 min.
Music composed and conducted by Giorgio Gaslini
This 1972
film by Giorgio Ferroni was based on the same story that was used in Mario
Bava's BLACK SABBATH (1963). The opening theme from Gaslini is very
similar to many of the giallo themes, but like the film itself, has a dreamy,
unworldly quality and sound to it. With the use of many different
instruments, Gaslini gives us a very memorable score. From flutes to
organs to the sound of a woman humming, all pull us into the story.
Gaslini only worked on a handful of films, including doing
some work on Argento's DEEP RED (1975), but has surely made an impression with
this reviewer on the scores that he did work on, especially NIGHT OF THE DEVILS.
You can order this CD from Screen Archives by clicking
HERE.
PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
Releaesd in 1999 by DRG Records
15 Tracks with a total running time of 53:03 min.
Music by Ennio Morricone
Having the
great Ennio Morricone score your movie has to make the movie even better, right?
Well, this score is the only thing worth watching this movie for. But this
review is for the soundtrack, not the movie, so let's get to that.
Morricone has created a wonderful score for this movie. Filled with some
beautiful music, some sad and somber tracks, especially the Sighs and Sighs
theme, which is used a few times throughout the soundtrack. I think this
theme really captures the mood of the movie and sets the atmosphere of the
character of the Phantom.
The rest of the score is filled with classic style music,
mainly with softer melodies. There is some use of a pipe organ, as if
almost playing tribute to the original PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. There is also
tracks that are more background sounds rather than actual music. But they
fit into the film quite well, enhancing what we are watching, which is really
what the score should be doing.
As we mentioned, while we are not a huge fan of this movie,
the score is done quite well, with some very memorable melodies and themes.
Of course, when you have Morricone doing your score, how could it be anything
else?
PHANTOMS OF THE
HIGH SEAS
By Nox Arcana
21 Tracks
Nox
Arcana has set sail on their 10th voyage into another entertaining soundscape
with Phantom of the High Seas. Hard to believe that these guys crank out
such wonderful scores so quickly. This time out, they take on a theme of
pirates and ghostly ships that sail the darkened seas. But if you're
thinking that this is going to be a bunch of drunken pirate songs, you're wrong.
As always, Nox Arcana creates beautiful and haunting sounds and melodies with a
central theme. So even if you're not a big pirate fan, you can still enjoy
this CD.
The CD is filled with tales of the haunted sea, surrounded by
the eerie sounds of ghosts, organs, creaking boards, and howling winds.
Yet again, Nox Arcana takes us on a musical journey that is one that you'll
return to time and time again.
THE
PHANTOM OF THE ORGAN / THE VAMPYRE AT THE HARPSICHORD
Originally Released 1973-74. Re-released in 2000 by Electric Lemon
15 Tracks, with a total running time of
Back in the early 70's, these gothic musical scores were
released. One featured music on a big old organ, like something you would hear
at a funeral or gothic cathedral. The other featured some great eerie music
played on a harpsichord. I had no idea that they had been re-mastered and put
on CD. But thanks to the fine folks at
Electric Lemon,
they are now released both on one CD.
The first part with the organ feels like you're in a
funeral parlor from a distant time, or a some old abandoned church that has this
eerie sounds pouring out from the bowels of the basement caverns. The second
part with the harpsichord, gives us chills just listening to the echoing sounds
of the notes being played. They both really are like soundtracks for those old
monster movies that use to stay up late to watch on the TV.
If you are a fan of Nox Arcana, or just any
atmospheric and gothic music, then this CD is for you. Filled with haunting
sounds from the organ and the harpsichord, this is great background music for
those late nights at the computer or whatever you might do late at night.
Highly recommended.
PULSE
24 Tracks, with a total running time of 38.07 min.
Music composed by Elia Cmiral
We had seen the original version of PULSE and didn't
care that much for it. So we won't be running out and seeing this latest
American remake of it.
But, once again Cmiral has done a great job creating mood and atmosphere
with this score. Since we kind of know what the film is about, it's easy to
see how well this score will fit in. With more of an industrial feel to it, we
get slow notes, echoing pianos, and then other times we get a
vibrating...pulsing sounds that really sets the mood for this score. Sort of a
like technology going bad. There's some sounds that almost seem familiar, but
are giving a slight twisted or vibe to them, making them into something darker.
The score makes it feel like something darker is just outside of your reach,
trying to break through. Which fits into the theme of this film perfectly.
RE-ANIMATOR:
THE DEFINITIVE EDITION
Released 2003 by La-La Land Records
16 Tracks, with a total running time of 52:43 min.
Music composed by Richard Band
During the first few seconds of this soundtrack, it
brings back the days of Empire Pictures. It just has...that sound that was so
familiar to all of those films. And it brings back a lot of happy memories.
Okay, let's get it out of the way first. Yea, it is the music from PSYCHO.
But according to composer Band, it was obvious that he was 'borrowing' the main
theme, as sort of joke. And I do agree with him. If he was going to plagiarize
it, you'd think he'd try to hide it a little better. Besides, I actually think
it fits pretty well in the film. And to be honest, when I hear that music, I
tend to think of this film first anyway.
And now that is out of the way, back to the review. Let's face it, the film
is a classic of the genre, and the soundtrack is as well. Band does a great job
of jumping between an eerie atmospheric theme to a quirky and almost comedic
theme at times, much like the movie.
The CD comes with a 5-page booklet that contains intros by Stuart Gordon,
Jeffrey Combs, and Brian Yuzna, and also has a brief interview with Band
himself. On the CD is also a 14 minute interview with Band, who discusses
working on the score, the use of the motif from PSYCHO, and more.
You can order this CD from La-La Land Records'
website.
THE
REAPING
Released by Varese Sarabande
21 Tracks, with a total running time 48:19 min.
Music Composed by John Frizzell
We are becoming more and more familiar with Frizzell's
work, and have been enjoying it more and more. With this score, Frizzell
creates a score that is somber, yet has a darker side. And sometimes that is at
the same time, like we're listening to two scores. At times we have a quiet
piano melody. But then in the background we start to hear scratching strings.
We also get more aggressive tracks that have more tension there, that even
chants that are reminiscent of Jerry Goldsmith's THE OMEN. Frizzell does a
great job combining them.
Frizzell has worked in this genre many times before, such as ALIEN
RESURRECTION and PRIMEVAL. And with each new score, we are becoming more and
more of a dedicated fan of his music.
REST
STOP: DON'T LOOK BACK
Released by La-La Land Records
20 Tracks, with a total running time of 64:38 min.
Music composed by Bear McCreary
Once again, I am amazed at the incredible
sounds that Bear McCreary comes up with. Giving this score a very
southern-blues sound, he still is able to use that style to create some pretty
creepy music. Even using a banjo, no less. He blew us away with his
score for WRONG TURN 2, and has done it once again.
My only problem I would have is that there is too many
regular songs on the CD, 5 in all, when I'd rather have the background music.
That being said, there is one song on here called "Jesus, He Forgive You Too"
which is a riot. The singer is listed as Rev. Buford "Buck" Davis, but
damn if that doesn't sound like Weird Al Yankovic.
None the less, I would highly impressed with this score, and
would recommend it to not only horror soundtrack fans, but also to blues fans.
This is the type of score that is going to be me to rent this sequel to a so-so
movie.
THE RING
/ THE RING 2
Released by Decca Records
12 Tracks, with a total running time of 1:03:11 min.
Music composed by Han Zimmer, Henning Lohner, Martin Tillman
The beginning of this
score shows all that you need for a great creepy score is a piano, a cello, and
a violin (and I am guessing on those instruments). The composers do an
incredible job giving us one eerie sounding score with a very minimum amount of
sound. The problem is there’s nothing to say what was composed by whom?
And unfortunately, the last part of this CD is quite a bit different than
the beginning. While the CD does contain scores from both movies, there’s no
way to tell which movie is from which movie. I’m assuming the drastic change in
style would be the 2nd film, but I’m not sure. While the first half,
up until track 9, is filled with your traditional creepy sounding score. Once
you hit track 9, it turns into something like a cross between gothic/jass/industrial.
Now maybe I wouldn’t have mind as much if it wasn’t for that I really enjoyed
the first part of the CD, and the style of the music. Then when this other
parts start up, it kind of broke the mood for me.
But other than the change in music style, we really enjoyed the first part
of CD and would recommend it to those who enjoy the moody and atmospheric
scores.
THE
RITE
Released by Silva Screen Music
13 tracks, with a total running time of 56:18 min.
Music by Alex Heffes
Hefffes is a
composer that I was not familiar with before receiving this CD for review.
Looking at his bio, it is obvious that he has quite the accomplished career.
But this one seems to be his first entry in the horror genre, hence, why I
haven't heard of him. But after listening to his score for THE RITE, one
can immediately tell why he is considered one of the leading composers in the
U.K., having worked on such films as the Oscar winning LAST KING OF SCOTLAND.
The first track starts off with a great little piano melody
that immediately gets my attention. Yes, I am a sucker for that. But
Heffes blends the piano with other strange sounds, which might be a violin or
cello, but also could be electronic. But he swirls them together in
a somber and moody opening track that got my attention right away. The
rest of the score using this same technique of incorporating different sounds
and instruments to give a memorable score. Even during the louder or
faster themes or sections, he maintains that same somber feeling.
At times, it reminds me of Michael Wandmacher's score for CRY
WOLF, mainly due to the soft melody. We would recommend this not just for
horror fans, but for any fans of film scores.
ROCK 'N' ROLL
NIGHTMARE
Released by La-La Land Records
27 Tracks, with a total running time of 1:08:15 min.
Music composed by Jon Mikl Thor & performed by Thor & The Tritonz
Who could have ever
imaged that there would be a soundtrack release of this 80's heavy metal horror
film? Being an old 80's metal head myself, I really enjoyed hearing this. You
can almost smell the hairspray when you listen to it!
This CD is split up between the score track and musical numbers from the
band. The score sounds like it was done on a Casio, much like a lot of the
horror movies that came out in the 80's. Nothing great here, but still gives
some effective atmosphere.
But the real highlight of the soundtrack is the songs from the band. These
are a real hoot. With titles like "We Live To Rock" and "We Accept The
Challenge", it brings back a lot of memories. Granted, they are very dated, and
probably won't be enjoyed by the younger crowd. But from a nostalgic reason, I
enjoyed them. The tracks sound like they were recorded yesterday, and are very
crisp and clean. The songs probably sound better on here then when they were
first recorded.
But the real praise goes out to Synapse Films, who put out the special
edition DVD and La-La
Land Records for putting out this CD release. It's companies like these
that bring these almost forgotten films back into the public eye....for better
or worse. These guys are doing this for the love of it, not to make a quick
buck. It's just great to see that there are people still doing this for the
love of the genre. Keep up the great work!
SEED
OF CHUCKY
Released by La-La Land Records
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 53:58 min.
Music composed by Pino Donaggio.
After a 12 year absence,
legendary composer Pino Donaggio returns to whip up another fine score, this
time to the unlikely recipient Seed Of Chucky.
While some may scoff at doing a score to such low brow entertainment as Seed
Of Chucky, Mr. Donaggio obviously saw enough potential in the project to deliver
his music that reflects much of what he has done in the past with some new
elements.
While the tone of the film is whimsical and chuck full of black humor,
Donaggio takes a dark route with his music (under the collaboration of the
London Symphony Orchestra). The opening track which plays over the main title is
filled with menace, and from that point on the rest of the CD follows suit.
Truth be told some elements from past work crops up here, notably some cues
lifted straight from Carrie (parts of the track 'Glen's Escape' in particular).
However with the tracks 'Made In Japan' and 'Konichiwa' Donaggio offers up some
Oriental flavor that echoes the plight of lead character Glen who thinks he is
Japanese due to the 'Made In Japan' imprint on his arm.
Finally for the track 'Our Jennifer' Donaggio comes up with some soothing
jazz that offers a brief respite from the brooding tone established with the
majority of the tracks. The final track on the CD is a boring rap song that
really is out of place here (even though it does play during the film). Aside
from that, fans of Donaggio's work should find plenty to savor here, even if the
film itself isn't your cup of tea. Kudos to
La-La Land Records
for bringing this satisfying score into the hands of the fans, because who knows
when Mr. Donaggio will bring his magic back to the cinema.
Review by Dave Kosanke.
SHADOW
OF THE RAVEN
By Nox Arcana
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 1:02:57 min.
Nox
Arcana returns to the darken realm of horrors with SHADOW. Taking guidance
from one of the true masters of horrors, Edgar Allan Poe, this album goes
through various stories and themes that Poe wrote about. This gives the
listener an audio journey through a very dark and troubled mind. We are
given musical journeys to the House of Usher, taste some vintage Amontillado,
and fight off madness as we hear the constant beating of the Tell-Tale Heart.
With this album, the haunting sound of the piano seems to
come to the forefront, which is makes this one of my favorite releases from Nox
Arcana. I've always loved the eerie and echoing sound of the piano,
especially when it is given haunting notes to play. And with SHADOW, they
do just that.
Nox Arcana continues to deliver dark and entertaining
soundscapes with each of their releases. For more information about this
CD, along with all of their other releases, check out the official website
HERE. If you
haven't experienced their music yet, with the Halloween season upon us, now is
the perfect time to start.
SLEEPY
HOLLOW
Released in 1999 by Hollywood Records
19 Tracks, with a total running time of 1:07:59 min.
Music composed by Danny Elfman
There once was a time when the name Danny Elfman doing
a movie score was something to be excited about. There are several of my
favorites that bare his name. But that was before his was doing soundtracks for
what seems to of been 50% of all the movies coming out. His name kept popping
up everywhere. And it seemed that a lot of the themes sounded quite similar, or
just not standing out.
Unfortunately, that is the case with this score. While it does fit well in
to the film, it just doesn't seem to have anything that makes it truly stand
out. As usual, the score does add to the atmosphere of the picture, but that's
about it and not much else. It just seems very basic.
Now this may seem a little critical, but I have come to expect much more
from Elfman. In the past, he has created some great work, such as in BATMAN,
NIGHTBREED, and what I would consider his tour-de-force, A NIGHTMARE BEFORE
CHRISTMAS. SLEEPY HOLLOW just seems a little plain. Not a bad score, but just
not a great one.
The insert folds out, and has photos and illustrations from the film.
SHUTTER
Released by Lakeshore Records
18 Tracks, with a total running time of 45:24 min.
Music composed by Nathan Barr.
Since this film is about ghosts, it's
only appropriate that this score would be filled with haunting sounds of piano
and strings. And for that part it works. The somber music that Barr
has created here isn't something that is overtly creepy sounding, but when used
in conjunction with a scary story, it can created an effective result. But
the cool thing about this score is that it can be enjoyed by someone who is
looking for some creepy music, or by someone who is just looking for some quiet
and maybe a little darker.
I could have done without the little love song that was
included here, but that's just me. While we are not really looking forward
to seeing another American remake of an Asian film, with Barr's music behind it,
it just might get me to rent it.
SPIKES
Released in 2010 by Phantom Soundtracks
26 Tracks
Music Darren Callahan
"Real Music / Fake Films". That is
what Phantom Soundtracks is about. We've reviewed CD scores before that
were soundscapes and creepy music for Halloween nights and whatnot. But
this is the first time we've reviewed a soundtrack for a movie that doesn't
exist. The bottom line is that this music makes me now want to see the
film.
Darren Callahan has crafted a score that is very reminiscent
of the early works of John Carpenter and even a touch of Italian progressive
band Goblin. He fills each track with some great mood and atmosphere with
the use of rhythm and sound. Being a fan of that early style of electronic
music, we really enjoyed what he has created. You can almost see the
credits during the opening theme. If he ever does score a horror film, we
would definitely be excited to check it out. For more information, head
over to their website
HERE.
SPLINTER
Released in 2008, by BSK Records
17 Tracks, with total running time of 37:11 min.
Music by Elia Cmiral
Cmiral has come up with a very action
based, industrial sounding score for this new horror movie. So as a horror
soundtrack, it does little to give any scares. But as an industrial,
mechanical action theme, it does what it sets out to be. Since we hadn't
see the movie, we can tell by this music that there is going to be a lot of
action more than the creepy and suspense type of film. The score
does have some slower and moody parts, but even those are still more percussion
based, with an electronic feel to them.
This is not a bad score mind you, in fact it's pretty good
and I'm sure works well in the film. But for us, we are always looking at
a stand alone score, one that we don't need to be watching the film. That
is after all, why someone would buy the soundtrack. So if you're looking
for some background music for an industrial party, then you will enjoy this.
But if you're looking for a creepy score, keep looking.
STAKE
LAND
Release in 2011, by Screamworks Records
26 Tracks with total running time of 48 min.
Music by Jeff Grace.
While we have seen some of the other films
that Grace had scored, this is the first one that we have had the chance to
review. And lucky for us, it is a real gem. STAKE LAND is about a
post-apocalyptic world. Grace's score gives us just that feeling.
Feeling of alone...down...desperate. The film shows us a world that there
just might not be any hope left, and Grace score accompanies that feeling
perfectly. There are some action based themes or sequences in here, but
mainly it is a slow and moody score, filled with wonderfully dark and brooding
strings.
While it is not a score that will leave you with an uplifting
mood, this is not to say that it is dark and depressing. But almost
filling you with an emptiness, or uncertainty. This is why it fits the
movie so well.
We are looking forward to seeking out more of Grace's work,
as well as seeing what else Screamworks Records will be unleashing on the
public's ears.
STAY
ALIVE
Released in 2006, by Nicabella Records Inc.
18 Tracks, with a total running time of 39:15 min.
Music by John Frizzell
While the concept and the look of this movie doesn't
really appeal to me, I always love to see what the score can produce in our
minds. And since we've never seen this film before this review, it gives us a
great chance to experience the music first hand.
Frizzell take a traditional score, but then seems to break it up and modify
it, combining it with more of a industrial/techno feel to it. In some cases it
works. Other times, it seemed to sound too much the same. The parts where he
goes for the quiet creepy score, with just the strings and a little piano, he
creates some great music and mood here. Other tracts seemed to be more fast
tension based. While these are okay, we really think the better tracks is when
he slows it down and leaves out the industrial feel.
THE
STRANGERS
Released in 2008
19 Tracks with a total running time of 45:53 min.
Music Composed by tomandandy
It's been a long time since we've
gotten a soundtrack to review that blew us away like this one did. Even
though we haven't seen the movie, tomandandy have created a incredible
soundscape of creepy and eerie background music. It doesn't sound like
your typical "scary" music either. But just long, soft and slow sounds
that fill the air. There's no themes or anything like that here. But
just 45 minutes of great atmosphere.
We aren't too familiar with the work of tomandandy (Andy
Milburn & Thomas Hadju), but know we will be looking into their other works.
Plus, we know we will be checking out this movie once it comes out as well.
If the music is this good, I'm sure it will only help the movie.
SUPERNATURAL
Released in 2006
25 Tracks, for a total running time of 43:23 min.
Music by Chris Lennertz
We had never bothered with this new TV show,
SUPERNATURAL, only because we figured since it was made-for-TV, it wasn't going
to be worth our time. But after listening to this score, that has changed.
Lennertz has created a beautifully haunting score here. His wonderful blend of
a slow echoing piano and long and sad strings and gives the listener atmosphere
rushing through their head.
I guess that shows just how good a score is if it's going to get me to check
out this show. Plus it doesn't hurt the fact that Lennertz's score received an
Emmy nomination this year. And after listening to it, you can tell why. Highly
recommended.
TERROR TRACT
Released in 2004 by La-La Land Records
25 Tracks, with a total running time of 47:19 min.
Music composed by Brian Tyler
TERROR TRACT was a low budget made-for-TV movie back
in 2000. While we've never seen the movie, from what we've read, the budget
apparently wasn't the only thing in the lower quantity.
That is where we were surprised with this soundtrack. This does not sound
like a score for a low-budget film, but of one with a considerable bigger one.
The score starts out with a strong opening with the main title, and offers some
good suspense building music throughout. There are a few sequences that
reminded me other other film scores...a little bit of CREEPSHOW, a little bit of
HELLRAISER.
But that being said, there just wasn't enough impact here to really make
this score stand out. I'm sure it adds wonderfully to the film and gives it
much more of a bigger sound that it deserves. But on it's own, it's kind of
basic or standard.
Released by La-La Land Records, who give this release a nice little fold-out
booklet with notes from the composer, the directors, and a rave review from
Cinemusic.net.
THE
TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE (2003)
Released in 2003 by La-La Land Records
18 Tracks, with a total running time of 50:25 min.
Music composed by Steve Jablonsky
This is another first for us. For THEY, it was the
first time we reviewed a soundtrack before seeing the film. Now, this if the
first time that we are reviewing a soundtrack after seeing the movie...and
hating it! So we have made sure that we have taken our time and give this CD a
good listening before we trash it...just kidding.
What we did was put out of mind what movie this was the soundtrack for, and
just listened for the atmosphere. And it was there. No real themes or melodies
here, just mood music, with bits of suspense thrown in for good measure. The
music gives off a good dark feeling, a sense of coming dread. It does have it's
'chase' music which is done well too. But I think the real highlight of the
score is the slower, more quieter, underlying music. I think that sets more of
an atmosphere than the 'chase' music. Jablonsky does gives us an adequate score
here. He enhances what is going on in the film, which is what a soundtrack
should do. But sometimes, the soundtrack can bring those feelings out without
having the visual. Jablonsky comes close to that here.
I wouldn't say that this is a very 'recognizable' score, like JAWS or even
HELLRAISER or RE-ANIMATOR. This isn't one that you could hear and immediately
know what it's from. But I don't think they really set out to do that. I think
they set out to add much more atmosphere to the film. And that is exactly what
they did. But unfortunately for me, no amount of added atmosphere could save
that movie.
La-La Land Records have put out another great new release here. It comes
with a 6-page booklet that has information about the film, the composer, and
notes from the director.
You can order this CD from La-La Land Records'
website.
THEATER
OF ILLUSION
by Nox Arcana, 2010
21 tracks
With their 11th release, Nox Arcana has
done something a little different it seems. While all under the theme of
magic, dark illusions, and the mysterious creators of these images of trickery,
each track seems to stand on its own, as opposed to combining to one long story.
Each track gives us a different trick, a different glimpse into the work of the
dark enchanters and those of slight of hand. From illusions to hypnotists,
this soundscape lays out a theme each of them, filled with the usual dark and
fun music that we expect from Nox Aracana. Filled with pianos, chimes,
chants, and everything else you'd need for a nice quite nice, in your dark and
fogged filled theater of your mind.
You can get more information about this release, as well as
their others from their website
HERE.
THEY
Released in 2003 by La-La Land Records
20 Tracks, with a total running time of 41:09 min.
Music composed by Elia Cmiral
This is a first. This is the first time that I have
reviewed a soundtrack before I had actually seen the movie. But I must say,
that if one thing that listening to this CD has done, it is make me want to see
the movie.
For this soundtrack, Cmiral gives us a sense of an underlying darkness, the
feeling that something is out there...waiting. The soundtrack is really more
about creating atmosphere as oppose to themes or music. And at this, Cmiral
does a great job. One of the tracks on the CD is called Something Lurks, and I
think that best describes the feel of this music. At times we feel tension,
while at other times a haunting fear that something is just out of sight, or
behind the corner, or under the bed, and is about to spring out at us at any
second.
I'm relatively new to the work of Cmiral, though I did enjoy his work on
STIGMATA. The CD comes with a 6-page booklet that gives us a little background
on composer Cmiral.
You can order this CD from La-La Land Records'
website.
THE
THING (Re-Release)
Released in 2011 by BuySoundtrax Records
16 Tracks with a total running time of 61 min.
Music by Ennio Morricone & John Carpenter
Soundtrack fans know that the original
release of the score for Carpenter's THE THING has been long out-of-print,
fetching some pretty hefty prices on ebay. But now with this new re-issue,
not only is it now available again, but we get to hear tracks that weren't on
the original release, and extra 10 minutes worth! Plus, they have organized the track listing to
follow the film, where the original release did not have that.
Our only problem whenever we have a score that has been
re-recorded, there is always that chance that it will not sound the same as we
remember, especially us soundtrack fans that have listened to the original
release many, many times. Like some other band covering a song. Yea,
all the notes are the same, but it just doesn't have the same sound. But
fortunately, there is only 1 track out of the 16 here that really sounds
different enough to immediately tell apart.
The score is now in order the way it plays in the film, as
well as adding in quite a few more tracks that were never on the original
release. Some will sound immediately familiar when you hear them,
especially if you've seen the movie as many times as we have. Being one of
our favorite films, it also makes this one of our favorite scores as well.
The combination of Carpenter and Morricone is amazing. They both do a
great job of building that suspense throughout the movie, no matter if the music
is that of the repetitive notes, pounding like your heart, or the electronic
notes screeching out of your speakers, it does the job. This release comes
HIGHLY recommended. And you just might want to pick this one up before it
goes out-of-print!
THE
13th HOUR
By Midnight Syndicate. An Entity Production 2005
25 Tracks, with a total running time of 56:12 min
It's been almost 3 years since the Syndicate boys have
released a horror themed CD. They did release their Dungeons and Dragons CD,
which was good, but just not the thing for us horror fans. But with the 13th
HOUR, they are back with a vengeance.
Continuing the theme from their GATES OF DELIRIUM release, THE 13th HOUR
delves deeper into the Haverghast Asylum. Once again, they conjure up some
haunting melodies, eerie background sounds and noises, and everything you need
to create your own little haunted house right in your own home. The opening
melody in track 3, Time Outside of Time, almost creates it's own visuals in your
head. You'd swear this is the opening theme to some classic ghost story movie.
Once again, why isn't Tim Burton knocking on their door???
You can check out their website
HERE.
TRANSYLVANIA
by Nox Arcana, 2005
21 tracks, with a total running time of 55:45
The problem with this latest from
Nox Arcana, is
that they are setting the bar higher and higher with each release. Each one
just gets better than the last one. It makes me wonder how long they can keep
doing this??? I guess we'll just have to keep waiting!
As much as we enjoyed being lead into the dark crypts of Lovecraft's world
with Necronomicon, with Transylvania, they take us on a wonderfully dark journey
through the land of the Carpathian mountains, filled with bats, howling winds
and wolves. Their musical storytelling, with the spoken words, the chanting,
and the wonderful organ music, is something that all horror and gothic fans will
enjoy.
Nox Arcana continues to deliver great music for those Halloween nights, or
any dark and gloomy evenings, when you want to add a little bit more atmosphere
to your night. Or even to bring some of that darkness to you in the blinding
daylight hours as well.
TRICK
'r TREAT
Released in 2009 by La-La Land Records
18 Tracks with a total running time of 59:18 min.
Music composed by Douglas Pipes
Douglas Pipes is a relative newcomer to
scoring films, really coming into view with his score for Monster House.
With Michael Dougherty's cinematic ode to the Halloween holiday, Pipes fills in
the cracks and crevices with a haunting score, filled with both quiet themes and
chants, to loud shrieking strings. The score hits all parts of styles.
There's the slow and creepy melodies as well as heart-racing cords that jerk you
out of your seat. And they all work perfectly in the film.
Since Dougherty's plan was to make a good old fashion
Halloween anthology film, which he does in spades, he made it even better by
getting Douglas Pipes to create a wonderful score for it.
The CD comes with a booklet with wonderful introduction by
Dougherty. This is one CD that will be getting played quite often this
Halloween.
TRIGGER
MAN / THE ROOST
Released by Moviescore Media
Composed by Jeff Grace
21 Tracks with a total running time of 43 min.
It is funny how a soundtrack can make you
want to revisit a movie that you turned off just a few minutes in because it
looked pretty bad. That is what happened with me and Ti West's TRIGGER
MAN. But recently I had picked up the soundtrack that had Jeff Grace's
score for both TRIGGER MAN and West's THE ROOST. I had liked THE
ROOST and it was a great deal on the CD so I bought it. Needless too say,
Grace's score for TRIGGER MAN is amazing. Very moody, with a slight blues
feel to it, with also a sound that reminds me a little of a Howard Shore's
score. It is a very quiet score for the most part, but just seeps out
atmosphere. He blends a little music with some background sounds or noises
perfectly, giving us a very effective and creepy score.
For THE ROOST, it is a slight different in that it is more of
a musical score, with the violin seeming to be the main instrument. Which
we definitely don't have a problem with. There still is some "noise" music
going on, but nowhere near as much as on TRIGGER MAN. But here, Grace
really tries to cut that violin in half sometimes, giving us high pitched
screeching flying out of our speakers. But again, highly effective.
Highly recommended.
I Wanna Do
Bad Things With You and other music from the HBO TV series True Blood
Released in 2011 by BuySoundtrax
5 Tracks, with a total running time of 16:14 min.
This EP has left me a bit cold, and makes me wanna do bad things to whoever came
up with the idea for this completely unnecessary release! First, we get two
alternate versions of Jace Everett's signature theme song for True Blood, "Bad
Things." One version features lead vocals by Jazz singer Katie Campbell, and is
basically the same song only with a female singer. The second version replaces
the vocals altogether with a harmonica performed by Tommy Morgan, and is
obviously just filler for this EP!
Next, we get two
versions of the "Love Theme From True Blood." Lisbeth Scott, a
collaborator of TB score composer Nathan Barr, performs a simple piano version
of the piece that stays the closest to Barr's original vision, and is not
surprisingly the best track here. However, Korean Pianist Joohyun Park's version
of the track is a New Age musical mess that once again feels like filler for the
EP. Finally, Park also tackles another New Age version of the "Goodbye, Godric"
track and the results are slightly better, but that's not saying much. I simply
can't justify any reason for this release to exist other than as a cash in for
die hard fans. Honestly, if music from True Blood is what you crave, then you'd
be much better served by hunting down the absolutely brilliant scores for
Season's 1 & 2 by Nathan Barr! They are far superior in every possible way!!!
Reviewed by Ryan Olson.
Music
From the TWILIGHT Saga
Released in 2011 by BuySoundTrax Records
20 Tracks with a total running time of 55 min.
Trust me, just like you, I never imagined
that I would be reviewing anything from the TWILIGHT series here. But when
someone sends you something for review, we feel obligated to do just that.
Usually in cases like this, I would try to pawn this off on one of my buddies,
but I know this is the kind of thing that could break life-long friendships.
So I jumped on this grenade myself.
Being a huge fan of classic music, and since I had never seen
any of the TWILIGHT movies, it was easy to see this just as a piece of classic
music. Since the violin and piano are two of my favorite instruments when
it comes to classical music, which along with the cello are the main instruments
used on this score, it was easy to be able to listen and enjoy it.
Obviously, this score wouldn't fall under a scary themed music or atmospheric
soundscapes. This is from a love story after all. So all the
non-horror element being gone, I still found the music to be relaxing. The
music is taken from all three of the TWILIGHT films.
Sure, probably not one that I would listen to again, if you
are a fan of those movies and of soundtracks, then I'm guessing you've already
purchased this CD by now.
2001
MANIACS: FIELD OF SCREAMS
The soundtrack to Tim Sullivan's sequel to 2001 Maniacs
(itself a semi-remake of the H.G. Lewis cult classic) entitled Field of Screams
has a lot to offer music wise. You get a decent dose of banjo popping hillbilly
fun courtesy of Ahmed Best & Clifford Allen Wagner who perform some of the
funnier & shorter cuts on the disc. In between each track is a soundbyte from
the film itself, the best of which emanate from Bill Moseley (who replaced
Robert England). In fact Moseley himself wrote and sings "Lord Let Me Help You
Decide" which is entertaining in its own right, simply because Moseley seems to
be having a great time on the track. Also look out for the talented Lin Shaye
who also gets to share the spotlight with some amusing dialogue and even 'sings'
part of the song "Cannibals." The rest of the music is a mixed bag of
contemporary rock, pop and even some hip hop. One track entitled "Go Zombie" is
a techno tune sung by Zombie Girl which should please horror freaks with its
horror movie lyrics. The last ten tracks on the disc comprise the actual
soundtrack portion of the movie (i.e. atmospheric & varied music with no vocals
or sound bytes) by Patrick Copeland which don't lend itself too well when
sampled on their own, as opposed to being incorporated while watching the
movie. However the rest of the music plays a little better on its own, since
its use in the film doesn't always work well with the visuals on display. Be
that as it may, if you enjoy more modern music this soundtrack might be more
appealing rather than an actual soundtrack album since it just doesn't give off
that vibe. As far as the merits of the film itself...well that's another story
for another time!
Reviewed by Dave Kosanke.
THE
UNBORN
Release in 2009 by Lakeshore Records
20 Tracks with a total running time of 41:12 min.
Music by Ramin Djawadi
This score is a great blend of a
traditional sounding score that sounds like it has a darker score trying to
bleed through. Through most of the slower tracks, we hear soft and slow
music, but then hear something as if it's trying to cross over into this music
and take over. A great example is in the track Mom's Room.
There are also several more action based tracks with
immediately put the listener into a faster paced feeling of anxiety and tension.
Plus, we've always been a sucker for a nice eerie piano, and Djawadi uses that
several times during this score with maximum impact.
While we're not really that familiar with Djawadi's work, we
are going to have to look more into his.
UNDEAD
Released in 2005 by La-La Land Records
17 Tracks, with a total running time of 51:40 min.
Music composed by Cliff Bradley
It had been quite some
time since seeing the movie when I put in the soundtrack to listen to for this
review. The directors’ wanted the score to have that quirky 50’s sci-fi movie
feel to it. And composer Cliff Bradley has done just that. Sounding a little
like some early Tim Burton / Danny Elfman stuff, Bradley has done a wonderful
job here. We usually prefer the spooky and eerie sounding scores, but still
enjoyed this one.
The sign of a great soundtrack is when you can pick our part of the movie
just by the type of music is playing. Just by listening to the 2nd track,
'Welcome to Berkeley', you can almost feel like you’re riding through a small
town. The whole score is a lot like that. My only complaint would be that we
only get to hear the 'Marion' theme a couple of times in the movie, which is a
very cool bluesy guitar riff. Oh well, can't have everything.
So while you won't get a creepy sounding score here, though it does have a
few moments, what you do get is still an entertaining score that fits so well
for this type of movie.
UNDERWORLD: RISE
OF THE LYCANS
Released in 2009 by Lakeshore Records
11 Tracks with a total running time of 36:00 min.
Music by Paul Haslinger
Upon a
little research, we discovered the Haslinger was one of the members of Tangerine
Dream, who gave us the incredible score for NEAR DARK. I guess we didn't
know as much as thought! But after leaving TD, Haslinger has been hard at
work on many, many other scores, including the score for the original Underworld
film.
I do enjoy the way that here, like he did with the first
film, he does a great job combining regular orchestral music with a tough of the
industrial sound, giving it a slightly different sound.
Unfortunately, while this is a good score, this didn't leave
me with any lasting impact. Since this is the prequel to the Romero/Juliet
tale, the score is as epic in themes as the film. We get the action based
music, along with the slower, more romantic themes as well. There is some
good music in there, that I'm sure works well blended into the film. But
as a stand alone score, we'd have to say it's average.
UNDERWORLD:
AWAKENING
Released in 2012
25 Tracks with a total running time of 59:00 min.
Music by Paul Haslinger
We've been a
fan of the most part of the UNDERWORLD series and have enjoyed Haslinger's work
on them, though we always hoped for a real stand out score, but just havne't
gotten it yet. And that is no different. Haslinger has always been
able to combine an industrial sound to a regular film score and do it quite
well. That is the one thing that we really enjoy about his work in the
series. But overall, while the score probably works really well with the
movie, as a stand alone score it just doesn't have that lasting punch that we
are always looking for. That is not meant as a criticism when it comes to
a film score. The whole point is to enhance what is happening on the
screen. But here, we are reviewing the score on it's own feet. So we
expect a little more from them. Something that is going to make the score
stick inside your head. Or at least create certain feelings and images in
your head when it is played.
Once again, this is not a bad score and if you are a big fan
of the series, you will probably enjoy it. But I still think Haslinger can
create something that has more of a last impact than what we are hearing here.
THE
UNINVITED
Released in 2009 by Lakeshore Records
15 Tracks, with a total running time of 48:44 min.
Music Composed by Christopher Young
We've
been a fan of Christopher Young's work ever since his brilliant score for
Hellraiser....one of our favorites. So even though we have not seen
this movie, we were looking forward to the musical journey Young would take us
on. Young once again strikes gold with this score. Young has a
incredible way of producing such emotional scores. On this score, we have
it all: haunting pianos and violins, and the ghostly choir pulling it all
together. There's not a lot of repeated themes or melodies here, but a
continuous stream of spectral and scary music flowing out of the speakers that
makes this a great CD.
This is one CD that begs to be played while your alone,
working late at night. If this doesn't create an atmosphere of mystery for
you, then you might want to check your pulse.
VAN
HELSING'S CURSE: OCULUS INFERNUM
Released by Koch Records
10 Tracks, with a total running time of 41:43 min.
Concept and Story by Dee Snider
Yea, I know this isn't really a movie soundtrack. But
it is a soundtrack perfect for the Halloween season, or for any time for that
matter. Mr. Snider has come up with an incredible musical opera for horror
fans. Taking musical cues from classic soundtracks like THE EXORCIST and THE
OMEN, and combining them with an awesome re-vision of Black Sabbath's namesake
song, Snider and company have created something special. All of this great
music wrapped together with a tale of good vs evil.
If you have not heard this yet, and you are a fan of horror movie music, you
should seek this out. You can check out their website
HERE.
WHEN
A STRANGER CALLS
By James Michael Dooley
10 Tracks, with a total running time of 32:44 min.
In this latest entry of Hollywood remakes, composer
Dooley takes on the task of creating suspense with his score. And he does do a
good job of that here. With either the wailing strings, eerie piano, or the
pounding drums, he has your heart pumping fast or ready to skip a beat while
your waiting for something to jump out.
But while this is an adequate score for this type of movie, and probably
works quite well in the film itself, by itself, there's nothing that really sets
this apart. It just seems like your standard suspense/thriller score. Not to
say that it's bad by no means, but just that it doesn't stand on it's own, or at
least make it different from the other countless suspense scores out there.
WHILE
SHE WAS OUT
By Paul Haslinger, with music also by Roxy Music & Joy Division
17 Tracks
This was another movie that we had no
idea what it was about before getting this score to review. We found out
that it was a thriller, so that was good enough for us. There are some
regular music tracks that we personally could have done with out. But the
score by Haslinger really sets the tone for this movie. It's filled with
long and winding strings and eerie piano that bring the suspenseful atmosphere
right to the front. The music is slow and quiet, but sets the tone
perfectly. But even when the music picks up the pace for more of the
action/suspense scenes, Haslinger is still able to keep us audibly on the edge
of our seats.
We like the creepy and scary sounding scores and this one
fits right in there. Nicely done.
WHO COULD KILL A CHILD?
Released by Singular Soundtrack 2010
54 tracks total, with a complete running time of 1:52:13.
Music composed, arranged, and conducted by Waldo de los Rios
Singular Soundtrack has put this
soundtrack on a two disc set that has the complete original score for the movie
(67:08 min.) as well as the album version (44:05 min.) The 2nd disc also
has the original score for THE HOUSE THAT SCREAMED (1969). You can read
our review of that by clicking HERE.
de los Rios had created a haunting score for this very
powerful film. Using a wide range of sounds, from dreading strings, or
pounding drums, screeching horns, and even children's voices (which makes the
score even more creepy), he fills this dark picture with the perfect musical
accompaniment. A couple of the tracks start out as a pleasant melody, such
as track 13 - The Old Man, which starts out almost like children's song, but
turns much darker, following the action of the film.
This release was only limited to a 1000 copies and be ordered
through Screen Archives
for only $19.95. For two scores of this film, plus a complete score for
another Spanish classic, that is a great price.
THE WICKER MAN
Released by Silva Screen Music
16 Tracks, with a total running time of 39 minutes.
Music and Songs composed by Paul Giovanni
This soundtrack is going to be for a
selected bunch. If you are looking for some creepy background music
that you can put on for atmosphere, then you are going to be disappointed.
But if you're looking for the actual music and songs from this classic movie
then you will really enjoy this release. It is filled with all the folk
songs and tunes that fill this movie, that on one hand make you think of some
old fashion folk music festival, but then remember the context of them from the
movie and it brings on a whole different meaning to it.
The first 11 tracks are called "Songs from Summerisle Ballads
of Seduction, Fertility and Ritual Slaughter". How's that for a title
listing? The remaining 5 tracks feature incidental music from the film,
including a few audio bits from the actual movie.
WINTER'S
EVE
By Nox Arcana
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 1:06:09 min.
Nox Arcana returns to the dark and cold
of a winter's night, or Eve as the title puts it. Like their previous
Winter's Knight CD, this is not filled with the dark and gloomy sounds that they
normally put out. But like their previous take on the winter season, the
talent of Nox Arcana shows through no matter what theme they are creating.
The beauty of their work is that it really can transcend genres. All of
them have haunting and memorable melodies, that stay with you long after the CD
is gone. But even more so than the melody that stays with you, it's the
mood of the music. And that is the real talent of Nox Arcana.
With this CD, they continue their music for the winter
season, filling our ears with soothing sounds of pianos, strings, and singing.
Even when taking on traditional songs like Greensleeves, they put their little
touch on it, but still gives us something calming and relaxing to listen to.
Perfect for this time of year.
You can order this CD, as well as all their other titles, or
just to get more information about them, by visiting their website by clicking
HERE.
WINTER'S
KNIGHT
By Nox Arcana
21 Tracks, with a total running time of 1:03:50 min.
This latest release from Nox Arcana may not have the
eerie, creepy music from their previous two releases, but that's not to say it's
not haunting. With this cd, they went into more of a gothic or ghostly sounds
for the winter holidays. This is not a Christmas album by no means. But one
that gives off the feeling of quite and moody nights in the woods, with a light
snow falling under the full moon.
If you're a fan of their previous works, then this will fit nicely in your
collection. They have done another excellent job of giving us fans some great
background music to listen to set the mood.
For more information about this CD or the band, check out their website
HERE.
THE WOLFMAN
By Danny Elfman
19 Tracks, with a total running time of 66:06 mins.
The last soundtrack from Danny Elfman that
we bought was his score from SLEEPY HOLLOW. And from our review posted on
this page, you can tell that we were not too impressed with it. So we
really haven't been keeping track of what films he's been working on. But
once THE WOLFMAN came out, we knew we'd have to pick up the score no matter what
and give it a chance. Boy, am I glad we did.
Taking cues from the music and feel from the old Hammer
films, Elfman has given us an incredible gothic and moody score. Sure,
there are a few cues that sound very similar to other scores, especially the
main hook from John Williams' score from DRACULA (1979). But none the
less, Elfman does a great job bringing the violins and other strings that really
set the mood and tone for this movie. Being a huge sucker for violin
themes, we were really happy with hearing them used over and over here.
Throw in some cellos and other strings, and we're good to go. From the
action based themes to the slower and atmospheric cues, it's great to see Elfman
come up with a score that shows that he still has that talent left in there.
We had almost given up hope.
THE
WOMAN IN BLACK
by Marco Beltrami
22 Tracks, with a total running time of 55:00 min.
With the return of Hammer Films, one of
the things that made their films so noticeable and memorable was the music.
When the music started, you knew it was from Hammer. So we were excited
both for this movie, but also to see if the music would be as predominate as
before. The answer is....sort of. The film is very atmospheric and
has plenty of jump scares. The soundtrack is the same way. Nothing
really action based here, but nice and slow strings and pianos, moving quietly
through the mist. There is an occasional loud bang of a notes, to coincide
with a visual jump scare in the movie. The music works well during the
film, blending with the slow and creepy build up of the story, occasionally
getting very loud to accentuate something on screen.
The only thing that we missed with this score is a theme or
melody, or some sort of musical hook that would catch the listener. This
score is wonderful to listen to, and does fit perfectly into the film, but lacks
anything that would give it lasting staying power, or one that would be haunting
the halls of your mind days after listening to it.
WRONG TURN 2
By Bear McCreary
16 Tracks, with a total running time of 52:07 min.
If you would have told me that I was
going to hear a scary soundtrack that featured a banjo for the main instrument,
I would have thought you were crazy. I understood why McCreary would try
something like that, since the movie dealt with a backwoods mutated hillbilly
family. But a banjo? Scary? Please.
But after listening to this CD, and then watching the movie,
I was complete blown away how effective it was. Now this might not be the
best CD that you'd throw in to get into a creepy mood, but as a soundtrack it
compliments the film perfectly. Plus, after watching the movie, it's
really pretty cool just to listen to it, and does give off some pretty creepy
sounds. The opening Main Title sounds like a Morricone western score made
in Louisiana.
Still just amazed at that banjo...
La-La Land Records have put this CD out, and once again have
done a wonderful job with it's release.
THE
X-FILES: I WANT TO BELIEVE
By Mark Snow
23 Tracks
This is one of those scores that I'm
sure works well within the movie. But as a stand alone score, I found it a
little lacking. Not that it's a bad score, and it is filled with a variety
of themes from some creepy to more mainstream action / tension type. But
to listen to it on it's own, it's a little flat.
Since this was for The X-Files, I guess I had expected
something a little more creepy or at least more atmopsheric. I'm sure
X-Files fans will enjoy it none the less.
ZOMBIE
INFLUX
by Jeff Hartz, with Nox Arcana
19 Tracks, with a total running time of 45:19 min.
Collaborating with Nox Arcana, Jeff Hartz has created a fun little audio tribute to George Romero and the zombie genre. Along with some good atmospheric background music, this CD has news reports about the doomsday virus which seems to be taking over the world. It's kind of like if a zombie outbreak was to really happen, this would be the soundtrack. As usual with anything Nox Arcana is involved with, the production value is top notch and great to have this playing in the background during any haunted or Halloween event.
THE
DEFINITIVE HORROR MOVIE COLLECTION
By Misc. Composers
4 Discs, 60 Tracks
If you are looking for a horror movie
greatest hits, then you have happened upon the right collection. This
4-disc set contains themes from movies ranging back to 1922 to the present day.
You have themes from all the classics like the original Dracula, to the
infamous theme from The Exorcist, to even foreign flicks like Let the
Right One In. If you're just starting out in collection film music,
this is also a great place to start, giving you a taste of many different styles
and different composers.
But....the only problem we had with this collection is that
these are not from the actual soundtracks, but redone. For most of them,
you wouldn't know the differences. But for someone who has listened to the
original scores over and over again over the years, when you hear a "cover" of
it, you can tell.
That being said, I do think this is a great way for someone
who is starting to get interested in film scores to get a jump on the game, and
to find out what scores they need to seek out. Each track is from an
important movie in the genre, with a few humorous ones, like the theme from
Ghostbusters, thrown in there just for fun.