The Stone Killer

Fear is the Key

Music by Roy Budd

 

 

 

 

Mixing diverse musical possibilities, Stone Killer (1973), is a great exercise on the border between orchestral language and pop arrangements.

Atmospheric in several places, the music does not lose the chance to use the generic cliché, as military rhytms to support suspense or usual period references: soul (Black is Beautiful), Jazz (Jazz Source) and Bossa Nova (Bossa Source). In M1 and M7 tracks (recording ID, untitled) the combination of orchestra (winds and strings) and drums is exemplary as enhancer of action. Basically it's a thriller that keeps the composer´s trio (electric piano, bass and drums) and adds strings and horns for sound expansion. A classic of its time. 

 

The proposal in expand the basic trio sound is more successful in the adventure Fear is the Key (1972), composed by jazz elements in orchestral variations. The introdutory theme, with sultry saxophone and ambience by broad violin lines is a classic example of the immersive function of the soundtracks. The ten minute Car Chase is a great example on the proposal of mixing languages among its rhythmic breaks, saxophone solos and bass pulse. Car Chase was made to synchronize to the driving fugue sequence with Barry Newman repeating the deeds of the cult Vanishing Point. This track also includes the sound effects of the sequence - tires, hits and sirens - in a curious and dynamic musical combination. Other themes include instrumental blues as in Bayou Blues and Louisiana Ferry. Absolutely functional and avoiding excesses the Roy Budd soundtracks reserved its place in history as worthy representatives of its period.

The Stone Killer 1973

Roy Budd

41 min

Cinephile Records