Like it or not, the theremin is known for it's spooky warble in many a B-grade horror and sci-fi film. Whether it's a mysterious creeping hand, a shadow in the dark, or a 900 year old mummy, the theremin has probably been used to enhance tension... or at least a decent dose of schmaltz.
If you're planning a Halloween party this year or you're just looking for some background tunes to spook up your local trick-or-treaters, then check out this list of some of the most ominous theremin music available.
1. The Day The Earth Stood Still
Rich Bitch Music, 2010
This 1951 classic sci-fi film coined the phrase "Klaatu, Barada, Nikto!" and helped secure the theremin's place in science fiction soundtracks. Be sure to add the track Gort/The Visor/The Telescope to your party playlist.
Available on Amazon.com
2. Rocketship XM
Not your typical mid-century sci-fi flick... This one has an ending that was quite surprising for its time. 3 astronauts set out for the Moon but due to malfunction, they end up on Mars face to face with angry aliens! Even better, Ferde Groffe's triple-dubbed theremin track backs their journey from start to finish.
Available from Amazon.com
3. Ed Wood (Original Soundtrack)
HOWE Records, 2013
"Greetings my friends. You are interested in the unknown, the mysterious, the unexplainable. That is why you are here..." Lydia Kavina played the theremin soundtrack on this classic telling of Ed Wood's B-movie escapades.
Available on Amazon.com
4. The Lost Weekend
Sinetone Air, 2012
Miklos Rosza's theremin-laden soundtrack backs this story of an alcoholic's 4-day drinking binge and its impact on his loved ones.
Available on Amazon.com
5. Halloween: The Extreme Haunted House Experience
Halloween FX Productions, 2015
Just in time for Halloween, here's your basic creepy background haunted house soundtrack with ghosts, howls, and of course... theremins!
Available on Amazon.com
6. Blake Jones - Theremins of Mystery
Whispermaphone, 2009
We recently ran across this album and enjoyed its over the top vibrato-filled alien surf-pop-in-a-graveyard sound.
Available on Amazon.com
And Finally...
If none of these work for you, why not have your party guests add their own live theremin track on top of this 2 hour collection of screams, howls, laughter, and other spooky sounds?
Available on Amazon.com
