Even for those of us who caught onto The Rocky Horror Picture Show a bit later than its initial release, the cultural phenomenon was undeniable. While I might have been too young to experience the film firsthand when it premiered, its influence permeated pop culture in fascinating ways. From Meat Loaf’s explosive success with Bat out of Hell, heavily linked to his Rocky Horror role, to the participatory cinema experience pioneered by Rocky Horror fans and adopted by Rock ‘n’ Roll High School enthusiasts, the film’s impact resonated deeply. However, it was the rocky horror songs that truly seeped into my consciousness over time, revealing themselves as the heart of this enduring cult classic.
It’s perhaps fortunate that my appreciation for the music developed gradually. The sheer theatricality and camp of the rocky horror songs might have been lost on a younger listener. But with age comes a deeper understanding, and now I recognize the soundtrack as a genuine masterwork. My own stint as a keyboardist and vocalist in a glam-rock cover band, The Glampas, where our rendition of “Time Warp” was always a crowd-pleaser, further solidified my appreciation for the musical brilliance of Rocky Horror.
Despite this long-standing admiration, the Rocky Horror Picture Show soundtrack album somehow eluded my personal collection – until recently. Celebrating its 45th anniversary, a picture disc reissue from Ode Records/The Orchard finally rectified this. And this isn’t just any reissue; it’s a sonically impressive experience. Picture discs have come a long way, delivering not just visual appeal but also exceptional audio quality. This record sounds fantastic, showcasing the rich layers of the rocky horror songs.
The music itself is a revelation. The arrangements and orchestrations are beautifully crafted, brought to life by a stellar lineup of musicians. Featuring talents like B.J. Cole, Mick Grabham of Procol Harum, and John “Rabbit” Bundrick from The Who, the instrumental performances are top-notch. And then there are the iconic vocals. Tim Curry’s unforgettable performance as Frank-N-Furter is central, alongside Meat Loaf’s powerful presence and surprisingly strong vocal turns from Susan Sarandon and Barry Bostwick. Together, they elevate these rocky horror songs into something truly special.
Soundtrack albums tied to narrative films often struggle to stand alone as purely audio experiences. However, the Rocky Horror Picture Show soundtrack is a notable exception. It transcends its cinematic origins, working beautifully as a standalone album. Dialogue snippets are present but minimal, allowing the rocky horror songs to take center stage and create a cohesive listening journey from beginning to end.
Even for those unfamiliar with the film, the album is essential listening. It perfectly captures the irreverent and theatrical spirit of the 1970s, reminiscent of National Lampoon and the early days of Saturday Night Live. While the film’s themes were considered outrageous for the time, the rocky horror songs possess an accessibility that has allowed them to endure for over four decades. They remain a vibrant and vital part of our shared cultural landscape, proving that the music of The Rocky Horror Picture Show is truly timeless.
