Last House on the Left UK Resource: The Musical Score

Like the film itself, David Hess' soundtrack for "Last House on the Left" is unique and special. This is because the score features music that isn't quite usual in terms of horror films.

When originally auditioning for the part of Krug Stillo in "Last House", David A. Hess had mentioned to film maker's Wes Craven and Sean Cunningham that he was an experienced musician, and that he could handle the film's score. So as well as starring in the movie, Hess created the memorable tunes that helped to make the film stand out.

Indeed, the score for "Last House on the Left" isn't what people would be expecting - it isn't incredibly dramatic or visceral like most horror movies. It is quite laid back, and all the tracks have a distinctive rock 'n' roll theme. The lyrics were even performed by Hess as well, and the music was done in collaboration with Steve Chapin, who was later uncredited for his efforts.

Among the tracks includes the main piece, "Wait For the Rain" and "The Baddies Theme". The latter being used to introduce Krug and his murderous gang. The music plays a very important part in the film, and it definitely raises a few questions. Should such merry music be involved in a violent horror film? It depends which way you look at it, but the score is certainly light hearted compared to the movie's subject matter.

In most respects, the soundtrack is a valuable piece of memorabilia for fans of "Last House on the Left". In my opinion, the musical score is an essential purchase. Hess is a very talented man, and the soundtrack helps greatly to show this, coupled with his nerve-shattering performance as Krug Stillo in the movie.

David Szulkin, author of the brilliant book on the film, has written a 16-page booklet which accompanies this fantastic CD. It features some behind the scenes info on the movie and full-colour photographs. All this adds to the opinion that David Hess' soundtrack is a must-buy.

You can order the soundtrack online, as well as David Szulkin's brilliant resource book from www.fabpress.com

For more information on ordering the soundtrack, and details on David Hess, please visit: www.devidhess.com

Complete Track Listing
This is the music as it appears upon the released version of the score.

1) Intro / Opening Credits
2) Little Cows Lookin' for Some Grass
3) Wait for the Rain
4) Baddies' Theme (Instrumental)
5) Mari's Birthday Surprise
6) Water Music / Sadie and Krug
7) Phyllis Spills Her Guts
8) Now You're All Alone
9) Ada's Chickens
10) The Chase
11) Daddy, Put Your Coat of Many Colours On
12) Mayhem Montage
13) Ice Cream Song
14) Urban Snatch
15) Blow Your Brains Out
16) Etude for Chainsaw / Goodbye, Dick
17) Aftermath / End Credits
BONUS TRACK - 18) Daddy, Put Your Coat of Many Colours On (Vocal Mix)
BONUS TRACK - 19) New York Times
BONUS TRACK - 20) Promised Land