They Live (Score) (Black & White Galaxy Vinyl)

A classic story of one man fighting for the freedom of the world with a great science-fiction twist. This movie is full of amazing dialogue and also contains the greatest fistfight in the history of cinema. Like most of Carpenter’s films They Live has an urban-western feel to it which is emphasized by the infectious score.

Carpenter and Howarth’s main theme conjures up images of a lone cowboy entering town with the main melody augmented with the sounds of harmonica and saxophone. There’s a carefree attitude that reflects Rowdy Roddy Piper’s character but the score takes on a more sinister tone when he realizes he doesn’t know anything about what’s really going on. Carpenter’s signature synth tones create an uncomfortable atmosphere but the main bassline is always fighting against them never giving up. Electric guitar is used fleetingly but brilliantly and the whole score embodies the kind of rebelling against authority Carpenter is famous for. They Live will rock your world without the need for a Brazilian plastic surgeon to put you back together again.