The Craft Soundtrack
Released in 1996, “The Craft” quickly became a cult favorite, capturing the imagination of audiences with its tale of high school girls dabbling in witchcraft. But it wasn’t just the compelling storyline or the charismatic cast that made it memorable. The soundtrack played a pivotal role in setting the tone and atmosphere.
When you think about the 90s music scene, you imagine a blend of rock, alternative rock, indie vibes, and a dash of pop. The soundtrack of “The Craft” encapsulated this essence perfectly.
Released on April 30, 1996 by Columbia Records, The Craft: Music from the Motion Picture soundtrack resonated well with the film’s themes of power, rebellion and the supernatural.
The Maestro Behind the Music: Graeme Revell
New Zealand-born composer Graeme Revell was the mastermind behind the film’s evocative score. Known for his versatility and his ability to craft melodies that linger long after the credits roll, Revell was the perfect choice for a film as unique as “The Craft.”
The uncredited bonus track, “Bells, Books, and Candles”, which Revell composed for the film, serves as a testament to his genius.
Revell’s unique blend of orchestral sounds with modern rhythms added a fresh twist to the age-old tale of witches and magic.
1. “Tomorrow Never Knows”
This track was performed by Our Lady Peace and originally penned by the legendary duo, John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Its psychedelic undertones, paired with the film’s opening scenes, provide an intriguing glimpse into the world of “The Craft.”
2. “I Have the Touch”
Peter Gabriel’s song wa played during a pivotal scene where the girls begin to understand the extent of their powers.
3. “All This and Nothing”
Sponge’s track underscores some of the film’s lighter moments, offering a contrast to its darker, more intense scenes.
4. “Dangerous Type”
Ric Ocasek’s classic is rejuvenated by Letters to Cleo in this soundtrack. The song plays during a montage scene, capturing the girls’ newfound confidence and the heady rush of power they experience.
5. “How Soon Is Now?”
A cover of the iconic song by The Smiths, performed by Love Spit Love, this track has become synonymous with “The Craft”. Its lyrics and melody perfectly encapsulate the film’s themes of identity, belonging, and the quest for power.
6. “Dark Secret”
Matthew Sweet’s tune plays during a scene where secrets begin to unravel, and the tight-knit group starts to see fissures in their bond.
7. “Witches Song”
Juliana Hatfield’s voice adds a mystical touch to this track. It plays during moments that emphasize the witchy nature of the protagonists.
8. “Jump Into the Fire”
Tripping Daisy’s rendition adds a modern twist to Harry Nilsson’s original. This song underscores a scene of pure, unbridled energy, capturing the essence of youth, rebellion, and the thrill of the unknown.
9. “Under the Water”
Played during a particularly emotional scene, Jewel’s track delves into feelings of despair, hopelessness, and the yearning for something more.
10. “Warning”
All Too Much’s song plays in the backdrop of a scene where the girls are warned about the repercussions of their actions.
11. “Spastica”
The frenzied pace of Elastica’s “Spastica” mirrors the chaos that ensues in the movie, especially when the spells the girls cast start to spiral out of control.
12. “The Horror”
Played during one of the film’s suspenseful sequences, Spacehog’s track perfectly captures the rising tension and the sense of impending doom.
13. “Bells, Books and Candles”
Composed by Graeme Revell, this instrumental track encapsulates the mystique and allure of witchcraft.
14. “Sick Child”
Performed by Siouxsie and the Banshees, “Sick Child” is a track that delves deep into the themes of vulnerability and innocence lost. Its It is a perfect reflection of the internal struggles faced by the characters.
15. “Fallin'”
Connie Francis lends her iconic voice to “Fallin'”, a song that brings a touch of nostalgia to the soundtrack. Contrasting the modern rock and alternative tracks, this classic tune evokes memories of simpler times. Within the context of the film, it serves as a stark reminder of the innocence the girls once had, juxtaposing their current reality with a time when life was much simpler.
16. “Scorn”
With its ethereal sound and haunting vocals, Portishead’s song encapsulates the feelings of rejection, isolation, and the yearning for acceptance. It plays during a scene where the lines between friendship and rivalry blur.
List of “The Craft” Tracks
- “Tomorrow Never Knows”
- “I Have the Touch”
- “All This and Nothing”
- “Dangerous Type”
- “How Soon Is Now?”
- “Dark Secret”
- “Witches Song”
- “Jump Into the Fire”
- “Under the Water”
- “Warning”
- “Spastica”
- “The Horror”
- “Bells, Books and Candles”
- “Sick Child”
- “Fallin'”
- “Scorn”
