Film on Vinyl: Halloween

Welcome to another installment of 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: Mondo's reissue of John Carpenter's "Halloween" soundtrack.

John Carpenter’s "Halloween” is one of the scariest films ever made. It introduced the world to the Boogeyman himself, and paved the way for the likes of “Friday the 13th” and “A Nightmare on Elm Street.” Michael Myers is one of the most frightening movie maniacs to ever grace the silver screen. Despite what some ill-conceived sequels, and one awful remake and its sequel, tried to tell us, there was no rhyme or reason to Michael's actions. Under his mask, he looked like anyone off the street, but to quote Dr. Loomis, “What was living behind that boy's eyes was purely and simply ... evil.”

Of course, all that aside, one aspect of the film that is the most terrifying is John Carpenter’s score. Few horror film scores are as immediately recognizable as the 5/4-time rhythm that plays throughout the film. Some have actually criticized the score, claiming that it was too simple. But that’s the sheer brilliance of the music: It doesn’t get lost in trying to be over-the-top. It simply sets the mood, and instantly instills a feeling of dread as you listen.

Packaging:

Mondo’s vinyl reissue of the "Halloween" soundtrack is as beautiful as it is terrifying. Full of artwork from Phantom City Creative, this haunting gatefold is a real gem for horror fans. The front cover is simple yet very intricate in its design. The large part of the cover is a depiction of Michael’s face and jet-black eyes. Those empty black holes seem to stare directly into your soul, and it’s hard to look away. Now, what really stand out are the lips. The upper lip is actually the babysitter’s house with the Shape — a common reference to Michael — standing on the outside.

Of course, the cover is only the beginning. The inner artwork is a near stroke of genius. Michael is carrying a lifeless Annie into the house. Most of the house is blacked out except the front porch of the house, and what stands out the most is the bright orange jack-o'-lantern burning brightly on the railing. And the pièce de résistance is the back cover. While the title takes up most of the space, the bottom right corner belongs to Michael. The signature Shatner mask can be seen peeking out behind hanging sheets.

The gatefold alone is so masterful in its use of black and white, and what appears to be a simple piece is actually very intricate. All this goodness, and I haven’t even touched on the records themselves. While most ended up with the sleek black with the trademark jack-o'-lantern in the middle, some — this guy included — were lucky enough to snag the beautiful orange vinyl. This Mondo release is just the gift that keeps on giving.

Tracks:

I consider Mondo’s reissue of “Halloween” to be the jewel of my collection. What makes this release so special is the addition of dialogue from the film. This makes listening so much more than a soundtrack. It makes it an experience.

Although I see the dialogue as the release's strength, I can also see it being a deterrent to some. Outside of the über fans, some would rather just sit back and listen to the haunting tunes, and if that’s the case, this may not be the release for you. I personally love the dialogue, but being one of the aforementioned über fans, I may be a little biased.

The record kicks off with the “Halloween Theme,” and segues directly into “Halloween 1963.” It’s here that the tale of the night that Michael murdered his older sister is recounted, with the story moving straight into the night Michael escapes from the hospital. There are gems throughout all four sides, such as the creepy “The Boogie Man is Coming,” “See Anything You Like?” and “Tombstone." Of course, no other tracks really hit home like the last two; when “Was It the Boogie Man?” moves straight into “End Credits: Halloween Theme — Reprise," it's sure to send shivers down your spine.

Thoughts in a Nutshell:

Mondo’s reissue of the “Halloween” soundtrack is by far one of the label's best releases. From its eerie gatefold artwork to the sharp orange vinyl variant and dialogue spliced into the score, this is a must-own soundtrack for all horror fans. And in true Mondo fashion, the vinyl dynamos created a variant print with different cover artwork and a beautiful orange translucent vinyl with black splatter.

On a personal note: As a vinyl aficionado, Mondo's "Halloween" reissue is of particular importance to me. I feel a little ashamed to say this, but I was a vinyl virgin before adding this to my collection. I didn't venture into the world of vinyl until I was well into my 20s, but like all good things, it was worth the wait. Just as "Halloween" introduced me to horror films, its soundtrack became my introductory vinyl experience. I know that plenty of exciting, new vinyl discoveries await me. But as they say, you always remember your first. So, from the bottom of my heart: Thank you, Mondo.

Until next time, remember to always spin responsibly: Make sure you’re using the appropriate cartridges.

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