CAROLAN, ROBIN

standard weight, 2x oxblood coloured vinyl

Robin Carolan’s latest soundtrack forRobert Eggers’ highly anticipatedNosferatuisa haunting, gothic-infused and meticulously crafted work that draws from a vast paletteof sounds, instruments, and inspirations. Following their successful collaboration onThe Northman, Carolan reunites with Eggers to bring the legendary tale ofNosferatutolife, infusing the film with a score that is as complex and nuanced as the story itself.WithDaniel Pioro, one of Britain’s most exciting young classical musicians, at the helmas the orchestra leader and first chair for a vast majority of the recording, the soundtrackfeatures a vast orchestration, including 60 string players, a full choir, various horns andwoodwinds, a harpist, and two percussionists. Despite the grandeur of the orchestra-tion, one of the most challenging pieces was the music box used at the film’s beginning.Carolan and Eggers struggled to perfect its sound, a process marked by their meticulousattention to detail, which Carolan describes as almost telepathic.

Set in the 1800s,Nosferatuallowed Carolan to incorporate contemporary instrumenta-tion, though he made a deliberate effort to ensure the score didn’t sound overly modern.Letty Stott, who also worked onThe Northman, contributed ancient horns and pipes,enhancing the soundtrack’s eerie atmosphere. Additionally, percussionistPaul Clarviscustom-built a toaca-like instrument for added authenticity

Carolan’s inspirations for the soundtrack were as eclectic as they were profound. Hefrequently drew upon the works ofBartokandCoil, while films likeThe Innocents,Angels and Insects, andEyes Wide Shutprovided cinematic inspiration. Additionally, heexplored the more obscure side of Hammer Horror soundtracks and found a deepconnection to the music of the Ukrainian filmThe Eve of Ivan Kupalo, which helpedshape the score’s otherworldly tone

Carolan intentionally moved beyond the typical horror score, focusing on capturing thetale’s melancholy and tragic elements while weaving in a sense of warped romanticism.The result is a soundtrack that not only complements the film but also stands on its ownas a testament to Carolan’s artistry and the enduring power of collaboration.