As I sat down with composer, John Doe, in his dimly lit studio, surrounded by eerie sound effects and haunting melodies, I couldn’t help but feel a chill run down my spine. The upcoming zombie horror movie, Herd, promises to deliver an unsettling experience, and its soundtrack is no exception. In this exclusive interview, John shares his creative process and gives us a sneak peek into two of the tracks that will feature in the film.
John, congratulations on being selected as the composer for Herd. How did you get involved with the project?
“Thank you! I’ve been working in the industry for several years now, and I’ve built a reputation for creating atmospheric scores that enhance the viewing experience. The director, Jane Smith, reached out to me after hearing some of my previous work. She wanted someone who could create a soundscape that would immerse the audience in the world of the film.”
Can you walk us through your creative process when scoring a horror movie like Herd?
“The first step is to watch the rough cut of the film and take note of the emotions and themes that emerge. With Herd, I was struck by the sense of isolation and desperation that permeates the story. I wanted the score to reflect those feelings while also heightening the tension and fear. I experimented with different instruments and techniques to create an uneasy atmosphere that complements the visuals.”
Let’s talk about the two tracks you’ve chosen to share with us today. What can you tell us about the first track, ‘Desolation’?
“‘Desolation’ plays during the opening credits and sets the tone for the film. It features a haunting piano melody accompanied by a subtle pulsing rhythm that builds throughout the piece. I used a combination of traditional orchestral instruments and electronic elements to create a sense of unease and uncertainty. The goal was to transport the listener to a barren, post-apocalyptic landscape, devoid of hope.”
And what about the second track, ‘Pursuit’?
“‘Pursuit’ takes place during a pivotal scene where the protagonist is being chased by a horde of zombies. I employed a faster tempo and jarring, discordant notes to convey the urgency and panic of the situation. The use of percussion, particularly the snare drum, adds to the sense of danger and intensity. This track is all about adrenaline and fear, putting the listener right in the midst of the action.”
I have to say, both tracks are incredibly evocative. Can you share with us any memorable moments or challenges you faced during the composing process?
“One of the biggest challenges was finding the right balance between creating a sense of dread and avoiding clichés. Horror movies often rely on familiar tropes, and it was important to me that the score didn’t fall into those traps. I spent a lot of time experimenting with different ideas and collaborating with Jane to ensure that the music felt fresh and authentic.
There were also logistical challenges, such as coordinating with the sound design team to ensure that the score complemented their work without overpowering it. But ultimately, those challenges made the final product stronger.”
Lastly, what do you hope audiences take away from the score of Herd?
“My hope is that the score enhances the overall experience of watching the film. I want people to feel immersed in the world we’ve created and emotionally invested in the characters. If the music can contribute to that, then I’ve done my job.”
It’s clear that John has put his heart and soul into the score of Herd, and we can’t wait to hear the full soundtrack when the movie releases later this year. Until then, these two exclusive tracks give us a tantalizing glimpse into the sonic landscape of this highly anticipated horror film.
