Film on Vinyl: Friday the 13th
Welcome to Film on Vinyl, Joe Donohue's column that celebrates the blending of his love for film and music by reviewing and dissecting movie soundtracks pressed on the oh-so-sweet vinyl record. Next up on the playlist: Waxwork Records' reissue of the soundtrack to Sean Cunningham's "Friday the 13th."
Thirty-four years ago, the world was introduced to one of the most infamous horror movie icons in cinema history: Pamela Voorhees. That psychotic momma cut a bloody path through Camp Crystal Lake all in the name of her deceased son, Jason — the same Jason who grew up into a supernatural killing machine of whom Pamela would be proud. Well, now thanks to the good folks over at Waxwork Records, the "Friday the 13th" soundtrack has been given a beautifully packaged reissue.
Few scores are as recognizable or as terrifying as Harry Manfredini’s for "Friday the 13th." His "Overlay of Evil" perfectly raises tension to every scene by alerting moviegoers that the killer is near. Manfredini masterfully scored this film, and while we’re not talking about an Oscar-winning film, his work still struck fear in the hearts of everyone who dared view it. That’s why Waxwork Records’ reissue is a must-have for any horror fan. It will give you goosebumps again and again.
Packaging:
One of the most impressive parts of this album is the beautifully haunting artwork by Jay Shaw. The evil eye watching over camp Crystal Lake gives a sense of dread and foreboding of the impending doom. While the cover paints a sure picture, it’s also open to interpretation. The eye could be that of Pamela Voorhees gazing over the location of her reign of terror or one of the countless victims fallen to her hand. The art, the eerie font and the classic tagline – They were warned…They are doomed…And on Friday the 13th, nothing will save them – all perfectly come together to create a wonderful homage to the horror classic.
Another special treat with the heavyweight old-style tip-on gatefold jacket with satin finish — try saying that three times fast — is the production accounts from Cunningham and Manfredini. Both men give a special glimpse into their views of the film and why "Friday the 13th" will always hold a special place in their heart.
Tracks:
This 180-gram vinyl sounds as beautiful as it looks and contains numerous goodies. Of course, one of the best tracks is "Overlay of Evil / Main Title," and most listeners will recognize this with a frightening track reminiscent of Bernard Herrmann's score for "Psycho" intertwined with the legendary "ki-ki-ki, ma-ma-ma." "The Bed Axe," "Don't Smoke in Bed" and "The Last Fight / The Chop to the End" are all gems. But no other track quite packs a punch like "The Boat on the Water / Closing Theme / Jason in the Lake." Listening to this haunting track instantly takes you to the final scene of the movie where you believe all is well until Jason makes his debut and snatches our young heroine right out of her boat.
Thoughts in a Nutshell:
Waxwork’s release of the "Friday the 13th" soundtrack is the perfect addition to any audiophile’s collection. The gatefold is gorgeous, the music is eerily beautiful and the inserted illustration by Jacqui Oakley is a devilish treat. If all those weren’t enough, the record itself comes in four variations: a limited-edition Blood-Filled Vinyl; Woodland Green with Blood Splatter; Crystal Lake Murky Green and Blood 2-Color Split; and Crystal Lake Murky Green. Just make sure to lock your doors, shut your windows and listen with the lights on.
For even more awesome soundtrack releases, check out Waxwork Records, and make sure to check back for another installment of Film on Vinyl.
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