Music from the House of Hammer

Add to my list

by Randall D. Larson

Type: Stories
Subject: Studio > Hammer
Keywords: Hammer, sound, music
Publishing date: 1996
Publisher: Scarecrow Press
Language: English

Relative size

Physical desc.

Hardcover • 224 pages
5 ½ x 8 ½ inches (14 x 21.5 cm)

ISBN-10 ISBN-13

0-8108-2975-4
978-0-8108-2975-6

User Ratings

(0 vote)

Average rating:

0	rating	= We can do without
0	rating	= Good book
0	rating	= Excellent book
0	rating	= Unique / a reference

Your rating: -

Book Presentation:
In the 1950s, Hammer Film Productions, a small British filmmaking company, introduced the world to a new genre of motion picture. Referred to by some as "horror," by others as "fantasy," Hammer films had a unique look and feel that many other studios would later attempt-and fail-to capture.

Hammer films also had a unique sound. For although the studio was small and the budgets limited, those involved in making the Hammer films recognized that the musical score was just as important as the set, the actors, and the script in telling the story.

Consequently, Hammer Films Productions recruited the best musical talent to make its films come alive. Those artists and the work they did are chronicled here in careful detail by Randall D. Larson. From the studio's fledging days, through its great successes of the 60s and early 70s, Music from the House of Hammer offers an inside look at how the "Hammer sound" was developed and nurtured.

About the Author:
Randall D. Larson has written a number of books, articles, and papers on film music, film novelizations, and horror literature.

Press Reviews:
"...a fascinating examination of the enduring work of 35 of Hammer's gifted composers...you don't need a music degree to appreciate this welcome book-just an inquiring mind and two good ears." ―Fangoria Magazine

"...Larson offers an intelligent discussion of the composers' work, replete with biographies, a filmography and discography...an all-around good piece of work." ―American Cinematographer

"Larson writes knowingly and clearly...essential for anyone interested in Hammer, horror, or music in film." ―Necrofile

"...a thorough account of the creation of the patented musical stylings of Hammer, England's legendary monster movie studio...." ―Starlog

"You don't need to have a musical background to appreciate Larson's writing as he clearly describes how certain themes and musical cues were employed to give the movie that extra frisson! Another must have for the devoted Hammer-phile." ―Crimson

"...extensive filmography and discography. If you love Hammer music then you must get this book. A great companion piece to Hammer audio CD's and videos." ―Behind the Screams

"If you remember these classic horror films and their scores fondly you will not be without this excellent companion...." ―New Zealand Film Music Bulletin

"...Larson's book is recommended not only for Hammerites but also for anyone interested in horror expressed in music...." ―Sfra Review

"...a fine achievement." ―Video Watchdog

"Exhaustive and accessible, Larson's book will be a welcome addition to any film-music fan's library and a special treat for Hammer film buffs." ―The Cue Sheet: The Journal Of The Society For The Preservat

"...this has become essential guide to the music business." ―Lsoh