John Carpenter: The Sound of Horror

John Carpenter is not only a master director, he is a musical genius as well. Nearly ever film he has made has been scored by himself (usually under a pseudonym.) The music is usually simple, though it causes a shiver to run down your spine. Here are some of my favorite pieces of music from Carpenter's films.

The Fog: Matthew Ghost Story

From the opening scene, The Fog is presented as a ghost story come to life. An old sailor scares children sitting around a camp fire with the tale of vengeful spirits haunting the mist that is closing in on the small town. The music in this film is understated and gets under the skin. It is designed to unsettle rather than to shock. Using mainly a slow moody piano, the soundtrack is mournful. It sets the tone of the film perfectly. One of the creepiest scores I've ever heard.