CD REVIEW - The Exorcism of Emily Rose


The Exorcism of Emily Rose
Music by Christopher Young
Lakeshore LKS 33836 (U.S.)
14 Tracks 63:19 mins

Christopher Young returns to the horror genre of sorts with a bang, producing some truly frightening sounds with the aid of his orchestral/electronic forces, in a score that is definitely not one for lovers of melody, because you won't find much of that here.
A number of lengthy tracks consist of much dark and threatening music, occasionally exploding forth violently, with some particularly strong string writing for these moments. At other times an air of mystery ensues, sometimes enhanced by Sara Niemietz's wordless vocals. Her appearances can also add an eerie element to proceedings, or a religious quality when required.
I'm sure this score works tremendously well on film but as an album it just doesn't work for me. Trouble is, one is just dozing off in the numerous subdued moments when one of those violent episodes arrives and frightens the life out of you.