Film On Vinyl: Halloween (2018)

It’s time for another installment of one of the best columns discussing soundtracks on vinyl, Film on Vinyl. Very few movie monsters have truly frightened people liked Michael Meyers. He is the embodiment of everything that terrifies about the dark. He is THE boogeyman. So, to celebrate his return to the big screen, it’s time to fire up those turntables and take a closer listen to Sacred Bones’ pressing of the new Halloween’s soundtrack.

It’s been forty years since Michael Meyers first stalked his way on to the silver screen. It’s hard to imagine that he’s been terrifying movie-goers for that long. Granted, when you consider some of the more recent installments in the long-running film series, terrifying is probably a bit of an overstatement. And honestly, the franchise lost most of its clout almost twenty years ago, when Jamie Lee made her first return to the series that made her a star. Don’t’ get me wrong. I’m a fan of Halloween: H20, but at the end of the day, the film only got by on the nostalgia factor of one of the most famous scream queen’s return. Now, after four decades, the only thing better than Curtis making her return is John Carpenter returning to those ivory keys to compose the film’s score.

Packaging:

One of the most recognizable aspects of Michael Meyers is his mask. The lifeless face coupled with the blackest eyes, the devil’s eyes, is enough to make anyone uneasy. That’s what makes Sacred Bones’ slip cover to their “artistic” cover so impressive. It showcases Michael’s new look by putting his frightening mug front and center. It’s the perfect concoction of simplicity and meticulousness. And this front is just the icing on the cake. The sleeve on the inside features Curtis’ Laurie Strode, and is a great representation of the ying and yang balance between these two characters. Beyond the limited-edition cover is the poster from the new film. It’s nice, but unfortunately it pales in comparison to the slipcover.

Tracks:

John Carpenter’s score to Halloween is one of the most recognizable scores in cinematic history. It’s right up there with John William’s score to Jaws or Jerry Goldsmith’s Poltergeist. That’s why John Carpenter’s return to the franchise so exciting. His score to the original film is absolutely horrifying and is just as big of a character in the film as Strode and Meyers. Of course, the classic theme is included on the track, but there is also a plethora of other fantastic tracks. “The Shape Returns” really helps to set the mood for Michael’s return and “The Shape Kills” fills listeners will fill you with dread. A personal favorite of mine has to be “The Shape and Laurie Fight” because it sets the stage for one of the most epic cinematic showdowns. Ripley and the Queen have nothing on these two.

Thoughts in a Nutshell:

It’s absolutely no secret how big a fan of the Halloween series. It was one of the first horror films that I ever saw, and it still sends a shiver down my spine with each viewing. I have multiple copies of the film’s score on vinyl and probably listen to it from beginning to end every month or so. Sacred Bones really hit this release out of the park and I’m unbelievable excited to add this piece to my growing collection. If you haven’t had the chance to add it to your own collection, don’t hesitate. If you don’t, it will haunt you forever. True story.

Until next time, make sure that you’re always using the appropriate cartridge. Remember to always spin responsibly.

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