For fans of horror cinema and unique film scores, Waxwork Records is thrilled to announce the release of THE TEXAS CHAIN SAW MASSACRE Original Motion Picture Score by Tobe Hooper and Wayne Bell. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of this landmark film, this release marks the very first time the original score is available in any format. Just as some iconic movie moments are unforgettable, like perhaps unexpectedly hearing a song that sticks in your head, the score to The Texas Chain Saw Massacre has remained elusive until now. While we might think of catchy tunes from other films, imagine the chilling soundscape that perfectly complements the raw terror of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre.
Released in 1974, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, directed and co-composed by Tobe Hooper, alongside co-writer Kim Henkel, quickly became a cornerstone of independent horror. The film plunges viewers into the horrifying experience of a group of friends encountering a cannibalistic family. Decades later, it stands as a highly influential and critically acclaimed horror masterpiece. Its impact on the genre is undeniable, and part of its power lies in its unsettling and unconventional score.
The score, a collaboration between Tobe Hooper and Wayne Bell, is a testament to experimental sound design. Rejecting traditional orchestral instruments, Hooper and Bell crafted a soundscape using everyday objects and found sounds. Suspended cymbals, aluminum saucepans, children’s toy percussion, wildlife calls, whistles, and shakers became their instruments of choice. The result is a pioneering work of industrial music, a raw and unnerving auditory experience that amplifies the film’s visceral horror. This innovative approach to film scoring has contributed to its legendary status, becoming a sought-after “holy grail” for score collectors. Bootleg recordings and attempts to recreate the score have circulated for years, highlighting the intense interest in this lost piece of film history. Waxwork Records’ release finally delivers the authentic score to the public.
In a remarkable turn of events in 2023, the original master tapes of the score were rediscovered and are now preserved at the Harry Ransom Center in Austin, TX. Wayne Bell, the film’s co-composer, played a crucial role in ensuring the safe transfer of these invaluable tapes. With meticulous care, Bell personally reconstructed and mixed the official Texas Chain Saw Massacre score from these newly transferred masters, creating a cohesive and powerful listening experience. Mastering was then expertly handled by Thomas Dimuzio at Gench Mastering.
Waxwork Records is proud to present THE TEXAS CHAIN SAW MASSACRE Original Motion Picture Score by Tobe Hooper and Wayne Bell as a deluxe CD edition. The package includes a booklet filled with fascinating production photos and behind-the-scenes glimpses, all within an album design crafted by Steve Reeves and housed in a classic jewel case.
THE TEXAS CHAIN SAW MASSACRE Original Motion Picture Score CD Features:
- The Complete Original 1974 Score by Tobe Hooper and Wayne Bell
- Available For The First Time Ever
- Sourced Directly From The Original Master Tapes
- Jewel Case CD Packaging
- Exclusive Liner Notes by Composer Wayne Bell
- Informative Booklet
- Production and Behind The Scenes Photography Included
- Design by Steve Reeves
While this release celebrates a different kind of cinematic sound, perhaps fans of the uniquely quirky and memorable “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Song” can appreciate the innovative and unconventional spirit of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre score as well. Both showcase how music, in very different ways, can become an integral and unforgettable part of the movie experience.
