Horror movies have been a staple in the film industry for decades, captivating audiences with their spine-tingling thrills and terrifying plot twists. But one aspect that often goes unnoticed in these films is the soundtrack. A well-crafted soundtrack can enhance the overall viewing experience, immersing the audience in the world of the film and amplifying its emotional impact. In recent years, indie horror films have gained popularity for their unique storytelling and creative use of music. In this article, we will take a look at 15 of the best indie horror soundtracks of all time.
1. “It Follows” (2014)
“It Follows” is a modern indie horror classic that quickly became a fan favorite upon its release. The film’s synth-heavy soundtrack, composed by Disasterpeace, perfectly captures the eerie and unsettling tone of the film. The use of electronic music adds a nostalgic feel to the film, reminiscent of 80s horror films.
2. “Hereditary” (2018)
Ari Aster’s debut film “Hereditary” sent shockwaves through the horror genre with its haunting and disturbing storyline. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Colin Stetson, is equally unsettling. Stetson’s use of unusual instruments such as saxophone and clarinet adds an otherworldly quality to the music, perfectly complementing the film’s supernatural elements.
3. “The Witch” (2015)
Robert Eggers’ directorial debut “The Witch” is a slow-burning horror film that relies heavily on its haunting atmosphere. The film’s score, composed by Mark Korven, is a crucial element in creating this atmosphere. Korven uses unconventional instruments like the hurdy-gurdy to create a sense of dread and unease throughout the film.
4. “Mandy” (2018)
“Mandy” is a heavy metal-inspired horror film that has gained a cult following for its unique and visually stunning style. The film’s soundtrack, composed by the late Jóhann Jóhannsson, is a perfect blend of heavy metal and synthwave. Jóhannsson’s score adds an intense and epic feel to the film, elevating it to a whole new level of horror.
5. “The Guest” (2014)
Dan Stevens’ breakout role in “The Guest” is accompanied by a synth-heavy soundtrack that perfectly captures the film’s retro 80s vibe. Composed by Steve Moore, the soundtrack adds an element of nostalgia and suspense to the film, making it a must-watch for horror and music fans alike.
6. “It Comes at Night” (2017)
“It Comes at Night” is a slow-burn psychological horror film that relies on its atmosphere and tension to terrify its audience. The film’s score, composed by Brian McOmber, effectively captures this tension with its use of eerie strings and unsettling sound effects. The result is a soundtrack that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
7. “Under the Skin” (2013)
“Under the Skin” is a sci-fi horror film that features a mesmerizing and haunting soundtrack. Composed by Mica Levi, the score is a mix of eerie strings and distorted electronic sounds that perfectly capture the film’s otherworldly atmosphere. The result is a soundtrack that lingers with you long after the film has ended.
8. “The Babadook” (2014)
Jennifer Kent’s debut film “The Babadook” is a chilling portrayal of grief and mental illness. The film’s score, composed by Jed Kurzel, effectively captures this psychological horror with its use of haunting and discordant sounds. The soundtrack adds an extra layer of terror to the already terrifying story.
9. “The Invitation” (2015)
“The Invitation” is a slow-burning psychological thriller that keeps audiences on edge until the very end. The film’s score, composed by Theodore Shapiro, adds to the film’s tension with its use of unsettling and suspenseful melodies. The score perfectly complements the film’s eerie and mysterious tone.
10. “The Neon Demon” (2016)
Nicolas Winding Refn’s “The Neon Demon” is a visually stunning and disturbing horror film that delves into the dark side of the fashion industry. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Cliff Martinez, is a mix of electronic and orchestral elements that perfectly capture the film’s surreal and hypnotic feel.
11. “It Comes at Night” (2017)
“It Comes at Night” is a slow-burn psychological horror film that relies on its atmosphere and tension to terrify its audience. The film’s score, composed by Brian McOmber, effectively captures this tension with its use of eerie strings and unsettling sound effects. The result is a soundtrack that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
12. “The Guest” (2014)
Dan Stevens’ breakout role in “The Guest” is accompanied by a synth-heavy soundtrack that perfectly captures the film’s retro 80s vibe. Composed by Steve Moore, the soundtrack adds an element of nostalgia and suspense to the film, making it a must-watch for horror and music fans alike.
13. “Raw” (2016)
“Raw” is a French-Belgian horror film that follows the story of a young woman’s descent into cannibalism. The film’s score, composed by Jim Williams, adds to the film’s unsettling and visceral nature with its use of tense and dissonant sounds. The soundtrack effectively captures the inner turmoil of the main character and enhances the film’s gruesome visuals.
14. “The Witch” (2015)
Robert Eggers’ directorial debut “The Witch” is a slow-burning horror film that relies heavily on its haunting atmosphere. The film’s score, composed by Mark Korven, is a crucial element in creating this atmosphere. Korven uses unconventional instruments like the hurdy-gurdy to create a sense of dread and unease throughout the film.
15. “Mandy” (2018)
“Mandy” is a heavy metal-inspired horror film that has gained a cult following for its unique and visually stunning style. The film’s soundtrack, composed by the late Jóhann Jóhannsson, is a perfect blend of heavy metal and synthwave. Jóhannsson’s score adds an intense and epic feel to the film, elevating it to a whole new level of horror.
In conclusion, these 15 indie horror soundtracks have proven to be just as important as the visuals and storyline in creating a truly terrifying experience for audiences. Whether it’s through the use of unconventional instruments, electronic beats, or heavy metal riffs, these soundtracks have left their mark on the horror genre and continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike. So next time you watch an indie horror film, don’t forget to pay attention to the soundtrack – it just might be what takes the fear factor to the next level.
