[Dr.Funtime]

My question is:
How many of you are actually listening to the actual music off of these records and enjoying it as if it were just a regular album put out by another artist??
Or are you guys just liking it because of the movie that the music is from?
For me, it’s ultimately about the music and not so much about the film itself, however I can think of a few exceptions, i.e.; Surf Nazis Must Die is one of the only soundtracks I had to buy another copy of due to repeat listening.
I like Carpenter’s stuff either way, whether I like his movies or not. The music is something I would listen to on a daily basis, even if it was recorded by anybody else.
However, that’s the not the case with the majority of soundtracks being released at this time, IMO. I get the whole limited budget thing for the campy movies of that time period, hence, the lack funds for recording, etc.. But it’s not so much that, as it is that I have a hard time enjoying the actual music off of these soundtracks because of the music itself, not due to the production quality of the recordings. (love lo-fi)
A lot of it sounds like an instrumental b-side to a Billy Joel album (not that there’s anything wrong with Mr. Joel) or bumper music for a workout video from the mid 80s. Pure camp value, cool hip factor, etc. I get it.
Couldn’t say I listened to Bronx Warriors more than, 2 times. Same with Chopping Mall.
With that being said, I think it’s cool that a lot of these soundtracks are being pressed for the very first time and given a chance to appeal to an audience that might not have been there otherwise.
But, with me, it’s helped me to become a lot more selective with my purchases, especially this year, which is a good thing, as opposed to being swept up into a blind buying frenzy. (which most of us, I think, have had experiences with)

[chiefbrody]

Good question, Dr.
Until fairly recently, I wouldn't have bought a score/soundtrack without having seen the film.

I had a few OSTs before I started buying a lot of vinyl OSTs. The starting point was Carpenter ones on DW that I knew I loved from having seen the films many times.

Since then, its become something else. I've become a DW collector. It started with just a couple that I didn't know, and I've come to trust Spencer's judgement. Then I became an OWS subber and have taken DW/OWS recommendations, and those on here, to explore other OSTs on other labels.

The music I listen to and like the most from OSTs isn't representative at all of non-OST music that I listen to.

I have to confess I don't get a much time as I'd like to spin the vinyl I buy, so there are many that I've only listened to once or twice. I think I've reached a point where I've realised I can't keep up with all of the great OST action going on just now, and need to be more selective. I'm going to try and break my DW spell. I've spent months plugging the gaps in my collection, and now I'm going to try and create some, so that I'm not buying everything they release. I've no doubt they'll be great records, but I just can't afford the time and money for them ALL.

Going back to your original question, I have faith in a couple of labels that they're putting out good stuff. I don't need to have seen the film, and usually haven't, but the ones I like the most are ones where I have seen the film and enjoyed it.

[Hatter313]

I always sample the album on the off chance i don't know the film. for instance, i didn't know lizard in a Woman's Skin at all, but morricone is always essential, and that record didn't leave my table for weeks.

i also listen to chopping mall all the time
Some releases i pass on 'cause they just aren't my thing obviously, but that's rarely the case

[texasvinyl]

Many of the movies I have never seen before. Sometimes I go back and watch them, but I don't always have the time. Plus, for some of the films the only worthwhile part is the score.

That being said, I like instrumental & background music, so I have a natural affinity for library records and movie scores. I also have a fascination with the "way things sound" -- what is an accurate musical representation of certain events/emotions/characters/etc, and how has this changed over time and across cultures?

I also love the way different parts of the world were absorbing and reacting to different musical trends. For example, I think the Italian stuff is so appealing because they heard the psych, soul, and jazz music coming from America in the 50s and 60s and put their own style and spin on the sound. "Black Music from White People" is a fantastic example.

I also may be odd in that I relish the blind buy, and this is one of the reasons I am so grateful for well-managed labels and forums like this one. This approach requires a certain level of trust in a label and community, but I like the experience of buying something based on a recommendation or a label and being blown away when I hear it. The recent Stringtronics reissue is one of those albums that I probably never would have heard without seeing the recommendation here.

If some of the records on my shelf don't get enough spin time it is a factor of time and a collection that's grown too large.

[EvanCampbell]

Many on here have such a broad range and love for music and sound in general that what might seem dull or simplistic to one person, another finds inspiring, or just plain fun. Some of the ones you mention I listen to just for the music!



Billy loves Chopping Mall!!