Scream Soundtrack (1996)
“Scream” wasn’t just a game-changer for the horror genre; it also brought with it a soundtrack that perfectly captured the essence of the 90s. While the film itself had us jumping out of our seats and maybe peeking through our fingers, the music added an extra layer of spine-tingling ambiance.
Released on December 17, 1996, by TVT Records, the soundtrack had a mix of alternative rock vibes and eerie instrumentals that complemented the film’s chilling narrative. Marco Beltrami, the genius behind the film’s score, had his work released later in 1998, paired with the score for “Scream 2” in a double-disc bonanza.
When the Woodsboro high school shuts its doors in the film, Alice Cooper’s “School’s Out” blares out, perfectly capturing the mood. However, if you’ve got the album, you’d notice a switcheroo here. Instead of Cooper’s original, The Last Hard Men’s cover of the song takes the spot.
Then, as Sidney and Billy dive deep into heart-to-heart chats, Gus Black’s acoustic rendition of Blue Öyster Cult’s “Don’t Fear the Reaper” hums in the backdrop.
Fun Fact: The OG version of this song has its roots in the soundtrack of John Carpenter’s horror masterpiece, “Halloween.” As analyst Jeff Smith puts it, the song choice is an ironic twist, highlighting the sheer terror we’ve just witnessed.
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds’ “Red Right Hand,” which graced the first film, didn’t stop there. It makes a comeback in the subsequent “Scream” movies, except for “Scream 4.” And for “Scream 3” Nick Cave went all out, crafting a unique version just for the film.
Now, if you’ve been tuning into music channels like MTV, you might’ve caught the alternate music video of “Drop Dead Gorgeous” by Republica, spiced up with clips from “Scream.” Even though the track echoes in the film, only the lucky ones with the European edition of the soundtrack can find it in their collection. Oh, and if you’ve seen the film’s TV ads, you’d recognize the track from there too.
Now, let’s break down this iconic soundtrack track by track.
1. “Youth of America” by Birdbrain
This track, penned by Joey Ammo, is a raw and edgy. It encapsulates the rebellious spirit of the youth. Birdbrain’s rendition with its grungy undertones is a head-bopping start to the album.
2. “Whisper” by Catherine
Crafted by Mark Rew, Keith Brown, and Kerry Brown, “Whisper” is a hauntingly melodic song.
3. “Red Right Hand” by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds
This iconic song by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds is one you’d remember from not just the first “Scream” but also its sequels. Its eerie lyrics and unforgettable melody make it a standout track.
4. “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Gus Black
Originally by Blue Öyster Cult, this acoustic cover by Gus Black gives a fresh take on a classic. The song subtly plays in the background in a pivotal scene between Sidney and Billy, adding layers of meaning and nostalgia.
5. “Artificial World (Interdimensional Mix)” by Julee Cruise with the Flow
This track by Julee Cruise, known for her work on “Twin Peaks”, is a mesmerizing mix of electronic and ethereal vocals.
6. “Better Than Me” by Sister Machine Gun
Chris Randall’s Sister Machine Gun delivers a track that’s both aggressive and melodic, representing the duality of the film itself.
7. “Whisper to a Scream (Birds Fly)” by Soho
Ian McNabb’s classic gets a refreshing 90s twist by Soho. The track is a blend of soft vocals and catchy rhythms.
8. “First Cool Hive” by Moby
The electronic maestro Moby brings his unique style to the soundtrack with “First Cool Hive”. The track is a blend of ambient sounds and captivating beats.
9. “Bitter Pill” by The Connells
Peele Wimberley pens this track, and The Connells’ rendition is a mix of 90s alternative rock vibes with a tinge of melancholy.
10. “School’s Out” by The Last Hard Men
While Alice Cooper’s original “School’s Out” is iconic, The Last Hard Men’s cover adds a fresh layer of grunge and rock, making it fit perfectly within the movie’s setting.
11. “Trouble in Woodsboro” / “Sidney’s Lament” by Marco Beltrami
A shift from the alternative rock vibe, this instrumental by Marco Beltrami encapsulates the eerie and suspenseful atmosphere of the film.
12. “Drop Dead Gorgeous” by Republica
This bonus track for the European edition is an upbeat number by Republica.
