As opposed to other popular film genres, ‘film score’ assumes the forefront when it comes to horror. The right kind of background score elicits the right kind of response from the viewers. A prudential melange of background music and related paraphernalia goes a long way in establishing a benchmark, especially when the film at stake falls under the “horror” sub-category.
Here are 10 of the most “hauntingly beautiful” film scores that will both appal and enthral you!
1. Mulholland Drive (2001)
Angelo Badalamenti’s genius can not only be heard, but felt in this spooky conjuration of his as the intro credits roll-on.
2. It Follows (2014)
The perfect exemplification of the “Diabolic Tone” can be heard in this “masterpiece” by Disasterpeace! The use of symphonic elements adds a varying degree to the spookiness.
3. Silence of The Lambs (1991)
A barrage of notes anchors this epic musical composition by one of the greatest composers ever, Howard Shore.
4. The Thing (1982)
Ennio Morricone, known for his awe-inspiring background scores for spaghetti western films, dons a new hat to create something entirely out of the world! What else can you expect out of a John Carpenter film?
5. Suspiria (1977)
The chimes give way to shrieks that can torment even the most headstrong of minds, finally paving way to a prog-rock-esque amalgamation of distinct sounds. The film was one of the most horrifying films of its time. The soundtrack perfectly lays testimony to that fact!
6. Near Dark (1987)
Tangerine Dream can be credited with composing the perfect score for Kathryn Bigelow’s Near Dark. The dark interweave of sounds is something bone chilling yet so calm.
7. Psycho (1962)
The pinnacle of Bernard Herrmann’s achievement can be heard in perhaps one of the greatest horror films of all time. The success of the film can largely be attributed to the film soundtracks.
8. Halloween (1978)
John Carpenter deserves a salute for composing the entire film score in just three days! An intricately woven piano structure, however, makes this main theme stand out.
9. Nosferatu (1979)
Popul Voh is responsible for conjuring an unlikely juxtaposition of hypnotic and ethereal sounds for this classic remake, replete with sitars and tabla!
10. Hellraiser (1987)
This unreleased theme by experimental English duo ‘Coil’ would make you wonder why such a macabrely beautiful theme wasn’t released along with the film.