No one expected Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill (Make a Deal With God)” to become one of the biggest hits of 2022, including musician Rob Simonsen, who arranged the orchestral version featured in season 4 of “Stranger Things.”
Because the song is featured prominently in the Netflix series — as Max, played by Sadie Sink, grieves her half-brother Billy’s death, hat vulnerability leaves her open to the show’s villain, Vecna, who preys on his victims through their trauma — and is used to soundtrack a pivotal moment, its resonance carries in large part due to its orchestral treatment.
The combination of the two — Bush’s 1985 classic and the instrumental version — helped push the song to top the U.K. charts, and the Top 5 in the U.S.
So how did the grafted instrumental come about?
While Michael Stein and Kyle Dixon served as the show’s composers, Simonsen was tasked...
Because the song is featured prominently in the Netflix series — as Max, played by Sadie Sink, grieves her half-brother Billy’s death, hat vulnerability leaves her open to the show’s villain, Vecna, who preys on his victims through their trauma — and is used to soundtrack a pivotal moment, its resonance carries in large part due to its orchestral treatment.
The combination of the two — Bush’s 1985 classic and the instrumental version — helped push the song to top the U.K. charts, and the Top 5 in the U.S.
So how did the grafted instrumental come about?
While Michael Stein and Kyle Dixon served as the show’s composers, Simonsen was tasked...
- 7/12/2022
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Fresh off some jaw-dropping viewership numbers, “Stranger Things” Season 4 Vol. 1 scored its fourth consecutive Outstanding Drama Series Emmy nominations, but acting hopefuls Sadie Sink and Millie Bobby Brown ultimately didn’t make the cut.
The penultimate season of “Stranger Things” received 13 nods in total, shy of the previous record of 18 total nominations in Season 1 and devoid of any acting nominations at all.
Other nominations for Season 4 Vol. 1 include Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup, Outstanding Casting and Outstanding Music Supervision.
Netflix released Season 4 Vol. 1 on May 27, just before the May 31 deadline for 2022 Emmy consideration, so only the first seven episodes were eligible for nominations.
Also Read:
7 Shows Like ‘Stranger Things’ to Watch Next
The series also received no acting nominations for Season 3. Past acting nominations include Millie Bobby Brown for Outstanding Supporting Actress in 2018 and David Harbour for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 2018, both for Season 2. Shannon Purser who appeared as beloved Barbara Holland,...
The penultimate season of “Stranger Things” received 13 nods in total, shy of the previous record of 18 total nominations in Season 1 and devoid of any acting nominations at all.
Other nominations for Season 4 Vol. 1 include Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup, Outstanding Casting and Outstanding Music Supervision.
Netflix released Season 4 Vol. 1 on May 27, just before the May 31 deadline for 2022 Emmy consideration, so only the first seven episodes were eligible for nominations.
Also Read:
7 Shows Like ‘Stranger Things’ to Watch Next
The series also received no acting nominations for Season 3. Past acting nominations include Millie Bobby Brown for Outstanding Supporting Actress in 2018 and David Harbour for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 2018, both for Season 2. Shannon Purser who appeared as beloved Barbara Holland,...
- 7/12/2022
- by Dessi Gomez and Adam Chitwood
- The Wrap
With only one season of "Stranger Things" left to go, we're looking ahead to what kinds of twists and turns might be in store for our Hawkins crew. One of the biggest threads left hanging at the end of the fourth season is Will Byers and his ongoing psychic connection to the monsters of the Upside Down after being held hostage there in season one. Could Will be in for another dangerous, monstrous body-snatch in the final season? Let's take a closer look.
Will Vecna Possess Will in "Stranger Things" Season 5?
One TikTok theory certainly thinks so. TikToker @bunkyyy lays out the theory in a quick video, suggesting that the connection Will has with the Upside Down will allow Vecna, the ultimate baddie of the series, to essentially transfer his "soul" into Will's body. According to the theory, Vecna's "Dungeons & Dragons"-based name is a hint: in D&d,...
Will Vecna Possess Will in "Stranger Things" Season 5?
One TikTok theory certainly thinks so. TikToker @bunkyyy lays out the theory in a quick video, suggesting that the connection Will has with the Upside Down will allow Vecna, the ultimate baddie of the series, to essentially transfer his "soul" into Will's body. According to the theory, Vecna's "Dungeons & Dragons"-based name is a hint: in D&d,...
- 7/7/2022
- by Amanda Prahl
- Popsugar.com
Before Stranger Things season 4 even premiered, fans knew they had at least one moment of righteous metal fury to look forward to.
No, it wasn’t anything that had to do with Eleven, Hopper, a Demogorgon, or any of the other elements we were all familiar with. Instead, it was a brief shot teased in the very first full trailer that featured some Kirk Hammett-haired newbie named Eddie Munson (Joseph Quinn) absolutely shredding on a guitar in the Upside Down. Seriously, get a load of this Mad Max: Fury Road Doof Warrior brilliance:
Alas, the hour of Eddie’s guitar solo did not come to pass in any of the first seven episodes of Stranger Things season 4 that comprised of “Volume 1.” Thankfully, we know that the moment will surely arrive in volume 2, consisting of two lengthy episodes that premiere Friday, July 1 on Netflix. Joseph Quinn, the actor who portrays the now-beloved Dungeon Master/guitarist,...
No, it wasn’t anything that had to do with Eleven, Hopper, a Demogorgon, or any of the other elements we were all familiar with. Instead, it was a brief shot teased in the very first full trailer that featured some Kirk Hammett-haired newbie named Eddie Munson (Joseph Quinn) absolutely shredding on a guitar in the Upside Down. Seriously, get a load of this Mad Max: Fury Road Doof Warrior brilliance:
Alas, the hour of Eddie’s guitar solo did not come to pass in any of the first seven episodes of Stranger Things season 4 that comprised of “Volume 1.” Thankfully, we know that the moment will surely arrive in volume 2, consisting of two lengthy episodes that premiere Friday, July 1 on Netflix. Joseph Quinn, the actor who portrays the now-beloved Dungeon Master/guitarist,...
- 6/28/2022
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Horror-thriller “The Retaliators,” which features music from Mötley Crue and Papa Roach, has sold into CineLife and Trafalgar Releasing for North America.
The Better Noise Films-produced movie will be released in the U.S. and Canada by CineLife Entertainment, and via Trafalgar Releasing for the rest of the world. A worldwide theatrical release is planned for Sept. 14.
The release comes on the heels of a successful festival tour that saw premieres at London’s Arrow Video FrightFest and a U.S. premiere at Screamfest, where “The Retaliators” was the opening film. The pic screened at more than 25 festivals worldwide.
In “The Retaliators,” an upstanding pastor uncovers a dark and twisted underworld as he searches for answers surrounding his daughter’s brutal murder.
The film features an original soundtrack and cameos from prominent names in rock music, including Mötley Crüe’s Tommy Lee.
The cast includes Michael Lombardi (“Rescue Me...
The Better Noise Films-produced movie will be released in the U.S. and Canada by CineLife Entertainment, and via Trafalgar Releasing for the rest of the world. A worldwide theatrical release is planned for Sept. 14.
The release comes on the heels of a successful festival tour that saw premieres at London’s Arrow Video FrightFest and a U.S. premiere at Screamfest, where “The Retaliators” was the opening film. The pic screened at more than 25 festivals worldwide.
In “The Retaliators,” an upstanding pastor uncovers a dark and twisted underworld as he searches for answers surrounding his daughter’s brutal murder.
The film features an original soundtrack and cameos from prominent names in rock music, including Mötley Crüe’s Tommy Lee.
The cast includes Michael Lombardi (“Rescue Me...
- 6/28/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
This article contains spoilers for Stranger Things season 4.
We’ve all been there before. You’re just going about your day, planning your next D&d campaign and then you hear it: the tell-tale sound of a deep, hellish chiming. A grandfather clock has appeared from nowhere and with it comes the knowledge that Vecna will arrive from the Upside Down to ensnare your mind, break all your bones, and intern your body in hell forever. Mondays, am I right?
Such is the set of circumstances facing Hawkins, Indiana in Stranger Things season 4. Vecna, the latest ghoulish enemy from the Upside Down, operates without subtlety. A vision of the decrepit grandfather clock that once inhabited Creel House always foretells his arrival…and some poor schmuck’s death. Stranger Things fans online have had some fun with this concept, posting countless videos to social media joking about clocks that only they can see.
We’ve all been there before. You’re just going about your day, planning your next D&d campaign and then you hear it: the tell-tale sound of a deep, hellish chiming. A grandfather clock has appeared from nowhere and with it comes the knowledge that Vecna will arrive from the Upside Down to ensnare your mind, break all your bones, and intern your body in hell forever. Mondays, am I right?
Such is the set of circumstances facing Hawkins, Indiana in Stranger Things season 4. Vecna, the latest ghoulish enemy from the Upside Down, operates without subtlety. A vision of the decrepit grandfather clock that once inhabited Creel House always foretells his arrival…and some poor schmuck’s death. Stranger Things fans online have had some fun with this concept, posting countless videos to social media joking about clocks that only they can see.
- 6/6/2022
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Sound in television has, arguably, always played second fiddle to the images. And as with other sound professionals on the top contending shows in the sound categories, Dean Hurley, supervising sound editor on Showtime’s “Twin Peaks,” worked hard to craft a cinematic aural landscape despite challenges ranging from “the usual technical ones,” as he puts it, to the accelerated post schedules of today’s TV shows.
“David Lynch likes to take his time with sound, and it was hard working within the conventions of a TV series and allowing him the usual freedom he enjoys,” says Hurley, who’s worked for Lynch for 13 years. “We did all the picture editing and sound editorial at his home studio, mixing in 5.1 and taking about a week per episode — and we had 18 episodes. It’s a very fluid process, with lots of improvisation and experimentation, and David’s very hands-on. He’s...
“David Lynch likes to take his time with sound, and it was hard working within the conventions of a TV series and allowing him the usual freedom he enjoys,” says Hurley, who’s worked for Lynch for 13 years. “We did all the picture editing and sound editorial at his home studio, mixing in 5.1 and taking about a week per episode — and we had 18 episodes. It’s a very fluid process, with lots of improvisation and experimentation, and David’s very hands-on. He’s...
- 6/1/2018
- by Iain Blair
- Variety Film + TV
In today's special Halloween edition of Horror Highlights, we have a look at photos from the Shaun of the Dead screening at the Greek Theatre (featuring special guests Edgar Wright and Lucy Davis), details on director Darren Lynn Bousman's appearance as a guest judge on Shaken: The Cocktail Challenge, info on new Halloween music from the Stranger Things composers, a Kickstarter campaign for the new short film Tick, PBS' digital series Origin of Everything, and the Mausoleum of the Macabre's Halloween special.
Shaun of the Dead Screening at the Greek Theatre: "Focus 15, the initiative commemorating the founding 15 years ago of worldwide film company Focus Features, partnered with Fandango, the ultimate digital network for all things movies, and the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles for a special Halloween week outdoor zombie screening of Shaun of the Dead last night, hosted by Fandango’s Alicia Malone and joined by the film...
Shaun of the Dead Screening at the Greek Theatre: "Focus 15, the initiative commemorating the founding 15 years ago of worldwide film company Focus Features, partnered with Fandango, the ultimate digital network for all things movies, and the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles for a special Halloween week outdoor zombie screening of Shaun of the Dead last night, hosted by Fandango’s Alicia Malone and joined by the film...
- 10/31/2017
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
Note: This story contains light spoilers from Stranger Things 2.
During “Madmax,” the first episode of Stranger Things 2, a reprisal of the song “Kids” -- a standout track from the show’s season one debut episode -- evokes instant nostalgia and excitement for fans of the first season as the young cast -- namely, Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) and Will (Noah Schnapp) -- are reintroduced to audiences. Later, one of the new songs, “Eulogy,” which was available on streaming services ahead of the season two premiere, calls forth a different, yet similarly passionate response.
The minds behind the music of Stranger Things, composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, admit to Et that the response has been pretty gratifying -- if a little surprising.
“It's pretty cool -- it's funny when you play a simple melody that people recognize, and connect with something we enjoy,” Dixon explains. “It's...
During “Madmax,” the first episode of Stranger Things 2, a reprisal of the song “Kids” -- a standout track from the show’s season one debut episode -- evokes instant nostalgia and excitement for fans of the first season as the young cast -- namely, Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) and Will (Noah Schnapp) -- are reintroduced to audiences. Later, one of the new songs, “Eulogy,” which was available on streaming services ahead of the season two premiere, calls forth a different, yet similarly passionate response.
The minds behind the music of Stranger Things, composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, admit to Et that the response has been pretty gratifying -- if a little surprising.
“It's pretty cool -- it's funny when you play a simple melody that people recognize, and connect with something we enjoy,” Dixon explains. “It's...
- 10/27/2017
- Entertainment Tonight
“Stranger Things” is back. The second season is now streaming on Netflix, which means you’ll be hearing Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein‘s terrific theme song all over again (unless you do that Skip Intro thing during your binge watching). Their music is essential fabric to the world Matt and Ross Duffer have created, and now the composers are sharing how they put it all together.
Continue reading Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein Break Down ‘Stranger Things’ Theme On ‘Song Exploder’ Podcast at The Playlist.
Continue reading Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein Break Down ‘Stranger Things’ Theme On ‘Song Exploder’ Podcast at The Playlist.
- 10/27/2017
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
Here at Et, we’re obsessed with a lot of things -- and this is what we’re most excited about as we gear up for Halloween:
Why We’re Obsessed With ‘Stranger Things 2’
The Duffer Brothers’ surprise hit Netflix series is back with a second season -- and it doesn’t disappoint! The residents of Hawkins, Indiana -- namely, Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin), Will (Noah Schnapp) and Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) -- find themselves dealing with the unexpected repercussions of the events of season one as new neighbors (Max and Billy, played by Sadie Sink and Dacre Montgomery, and Sean Astin as Bob) and new frights (we can’t say here!) arrive in their nostalgia-filled world. And for those keeping track, expect plenty of nods and references to everything from The Exorcist and Ghostbusters to Jurassic Park and Lost. And while you wait for the new season to premiere, we recommend streaming...
Why We’re Obsessed With ‘Stranger Things 2’
The Duffer Brothers’ surprise hit Netflix series is back with a second season -- and it doesn’t disappoint! The residents of Hawkins, Indiana -- namely, Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin), Will (Noah Schnapp) and Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) -- find themselves dealing with the unexpected repercussions of the events of season one as new neighbors (Max and Billy, played by Sadie Sink and Dacre Montgomery, and Sean Astin as Bob) and new frights (we can’t say here!) arrive in their nostalgia-filled world. And for those keeping track, expect plenty of nods and references to everything from The Exorcist and Ghostbusters to Jurassic Park and Lost. And while you wait for the new season to premiere, we recommend streaming...
- 10/23/2017
- Entertainment Tonight
We've got some more Stranger Things Season 2 treats for you to enjoy today! Netflix has released a new promo spot that features a television screen that plays various commercials and news from the town of Hawkins. We see a great retro commercial for the Palace Arcade and there's a news report about the pumpkin patches and crops in the town because they have started dying. It also teases a few bits of additional information in regards to the story.
The full soundtrack for the second season has also been released and you can listen to it on Spotify, which I embedded for you below.
Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein returned to compose Season 2 and when talking about their approach to scoring Season 2 they explain:
“In Season 2 we’re introducing new styles of composition, while still revisiting old themes when appropriate. We’ve created new elements that are necessary to support the story,...
The full soundtrack for the second season has also been released and you can listen to it on Spotify, which I embedded for you below.
Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein returned to compose Season 2 and when talking about their approach to scoring Season 2 they explain:
“In Season 2 we’re introducing new styles of composition, while still revisiting old themes when appropriate. We’ve created new elements that are necessary to support the story,...
- 10/20/2017
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
In the realm of iconic TV show themes, “Twin Peaks” likely remains at the top of the mountain. But for Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, Emmy winners for their work on “Stranger Things,” they aimed high and no one would argue they’re getting pretty close to the top, as well.
“We wanted [our music] to have that kind of impact,” Stein told Billboard earlier this year.
Continue reading Stream ‘Stranger Things’ Season 2 Soundtrack By Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein at The Playlist.
“We wanted [our music] to have that kind of impact,” Stein told Billboard earlier this year.
Continue reading Stream ‘Stranger Things’ Season 2 Soundtrack By Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein at The Playlist.
- 10/20/2017
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
‘Stranger Things 2’ Original Score is Now Streaming (and It’s Just As Good as the Original) — Listen
The list of breakout talent from “Stranger Things” Season 1 is pretty endless. From young actors Millie Bobby Brown and Finn Wolfhard to showrunners Matt and Ross Duffer, the blockbuster Netflix series was a star vehicle for a ton of talent. Included in the bunch are original score composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, who are members of the band S U R V I V E. The duo’s 53-second theme music for the series became an instant classic, and they’re back for the new batch of episodes with 34 more original tracks.
Read More:‘Stranger Things’: Gaten Matarazzo Prepares You for Season 2 by Breathlessly Recapping What’s Happened So Far — Watch
“Stranger Things 2” takes place a year after the events of the original episodes. Will, having returned from an extended stay in the Upside Down, is experiencing Ptsd shocks and seeing new visions of a giant monster terrorizing the town of Hawkins.
Read More:‘Stranger Things’: Gaten Matarazzo Prepares You for Season 2 by Breathlessly Recapping What’s Happened So Far — Watch
“Stranger Things 2” takes place a year after the events of the original episodes. Will, having returned from an extended stay in the Upside Down, is experiencing Ptsd shocks and seeing new visions of a giant monster terrorizing the town of Hawkins.
- 10/20/2017
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
Stranger Things returns to Netflix October 27. S U R V I V E's Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein are back to bring their synth sensibilities to the Season 2 soundtrack and the first track called “Walkin’ in Hawkins" has premiered.
The Season 2 soundtrack will be available digitally on October 20 via Invada and Lakeshore. CD, vinyl, and cassette releases will follow.
“In Season 2 we’re introducing new styles of composition, while still revisiting old themes when appropriate,” Dixon and Stein said in a statement. “We’ve crea [Continued ...]...
The Season 2 soundtrack will be available digitally on October 20 via Invada and Lakeshore. CD, vinyl, and cassette releases will follow.
“In Season 2 we’re introducing new styles of composition, while still revisiting old themes when appropriate,” Dixon and Stein said in a statement. “We’ve crea [Continued ...]...
- 10/13/2017
- QuietEarth.us
While we wait for the new trailer for Stranger Things Season 2 to be released today, here's the full soundtrack track list. The names of the songs on the list certainly seem to tease some of the plot points in the upcoming series.
I loved the soundtrack of Season 1 as the songs were fueled with the nostalgic 80s synthesized greatness. The opening theme alone is has become iconic.
Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein returned to compose Season 2 and they will be giving the new season new sounds, while also revisiting old themes. They explain in a statement:
“In Season 2 we’re introducing new styles of composition, while still revisiting old themes when appropriate. We’ve created new elements that are necessary to support the story, but still want to remain true to the sound of Season 1.”
The soundtrack will be rolled out soon on and will be available on digital, CD,...
I loved the soundtrack of Season 1 as the songs were fueled with the nostalgic 80s synthesized greatness. The opening theme alone is has become iconic.
Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein returned to compose Season 2 and they will be giving the new season new sounds, while also revisiting old themes. They explain in a statement:
“In Season 2 we’re introducing new styles of composition, while still revisiting old themes when appropriate. We’ve created new elements that are necessary to support the story, but still want to remain true to the sound of Season 1.”
The soundtrack will be rolled out soon on and will be available on digital, CD,...
- 10/13/2017
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein announced that the soundtrack for the second season of the Netflix show Stranger Things will be available on October 20th.
The two composers – also members of the Austin group Survive – previewed the new 34-track LP with "Walkin' In Hawkins." The track unfolds at a stately pace, as gurgling synthesizer lines and deep jolts of bass gradually accumulate around the primary melodic motif.
In a statement, Dixon and Stein suggested that they hoped to balance tradition and innovation in the music for the new season. "In...
The two composers – also members of the Austin group Survive – previewed the new 34-track LP with "Walkin' In Hawkins." The track unfolds at a stately pace, as gurgling synthesizer lines and deep jolts of bass gradually accumulate around the primary melodic motif.
In a statement, Dixon and Stein suggested that they hoped to balance tradition and innovation in the music for the new season. "In...
- 10/12/2017
- Rollingstone.com
As expected, the Creative Arts Emmy competition Sunday turned out to be a sci-fi smackdown between Netflix’s “Stranger Things” and HBO’s “Westworld,” and each split the night with five awards apiece.
The Duffer Brothers’ ’80s homage to Steven Spielberg and Stephen King, “Stranger Things” won for outstanding editing, main title theme music, main title design, sound editing, and casting. The Jonathan Nolan/ Lisa Joy sci-fi/western, “Westworld,” earned outstanding special visual effects (the domain of “Game of Thrones” five years running), makeup (non-prosthetic), hairstyling, sound mixing, and creative achievement in interactive media.
However, if recent history proves a reliable harbinger, “Stranger Things” has the edge in the race for next Sunday’s Outstanding Series competition because of its editing victory. That’s because the last five outstanding editing winners have also taken home the big prize.
Read More:News Film TV Awards Toolkit More Search ‘The Handmaid’s Tale,...
The Duffer Brothers’ ’80s homage to Steven Spielberg and Stephen King, “Stranger Things” won for outstanding editing, main title theme music, main title design, sound editing, and casting. The Jonathan Nolan/ Lisa Joy sci-fi/western, “Westworld,” earned outstanding special visual effects (the domain of “Game of Thrones” five years running), makeup (non-prosthetic), hairstyling, sound mixing, and creative achievement in interactive media.
However, if recent history proves a reliable harbinger, “Stranger Things” has the edge in the race for next Sunday’s Outstanding Series competition because of its editing victory. That’s because the last five outstanding editing winners have also taken home the big prize.
Read More:News Film TV Awards Toolkit More Search ‘The Handmaid’s Tale,...
- 9/11/2017
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
“Stranger Things” was announced Sunday, September 10, as the Emmy winner for Best Main Title Design and Best Main Title Theme Music. The recipients of this Emmy for design include creative director Michelle Dougherty, executive creative director Peter Frankfurt, designer Arisu Kashiwagi, and compositor/designer Eric Demeusy. And the music award went to Michael Stein and Kyle […]...
- 9/11/2017
- by Kevin Jacobsen
- Gold Derby
The Upside Down of “Stranger Things” became an apt metaphor for this divisive year, and, maybe not so strangely, “Stranger Things,” along with several other Best Drama Emmy contenders, offered unifying themes to combat the forces of oppression, hate, and turmoil.
These included “Westworld,” “The Crown,” “The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Feud: Bette and Joan,” and “Big Little Lies.” And, not surprisingly, they all offered stellar craftsmanship in support of their unifying themes.
“The Crown”
Showrunner Peter Morgan told IndieWire that his biggest takeaway has been the realization of the necessary bond between the monarchy and Parliament. “Sometimes the monarchy screws up and sometimes the politicians screw up,” he said. “And it takes one or the other to fix the problem.”
In Season 1, that unity is forged between young Queen Elizabeth II (nominated Claire Foy) and that old war horse, Prime Minister Winston Churchill (nominated John Lithgow). Together, they help Great...
These included “Westworld,” “The Crown,” “The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Feud: Bette and Joan,” and “Big Little Lies.” And, not surprisingly, they all offered stellar craftsmanship in support of their unifying themes.
“The Crown”
Showrunner Peter Morgan told IndieWire that his biggest takeaway has been the realization of the necessary bond between the monarchy and Parliament. “Sometimes the monarchy screws up and sometimes the politicians screw up,” he said. “And it takes one or the other to fix the problem.”
In Season 1, that unity is forged between young Queen Elizabeth II (nominated Claire Foy) and that old war horse, Prime Minister Winston Churchill (nominated John Lithgow). Together, they help Great...
- 8/28/2017
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
When it comes to picking main title themes this season, Emmy voters are heading toward either FX’s “Feud” or Netflix’s “Stranger Things.” Both tap Hollywood musical nostalgia in depicting the rivalry between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford (nominated Susan Sarandon and Jessica Lange, respectively) in the early ’60s and ’80s sci-fi in the Duffer Brothers’ creepy thriller.
On the other hand, HBO’s “Westworld” has a haunting theme, National Geographic’s “Genius” offers a brief but adrenaline-pumping opener, Masterpiece’s “Victoria” contains a feisty bit of classicism, and “The Good Fight” gets explosive in the debut launch of CBS All Access.
“Feud”: Bette and Joan” (Mac Quayle)
Composer Mac Quayle (last year’s winner for the “Mr. Robot” score) took a deep dive into ’60s Hollywood movie scores to evoke the anger and pain between Davis and Crawford during their competitive stint co-starring in “Whatever Happened To Baby Jane?...
On the other hand, HBO’s “Westworld” has a haunting theme, National Geographic’s “Genius” offers a brief but adrenaline-pumping opener, Masterpiece’s “Victoria” contains a feisty bit of classicism, and “The Good Fight” gets explosive in the debut launch of CBS All Access.
“Feud”: Bette and Joan” (Mac Quayle)
Composer Mac Quayle (last year’s winner for the “Mr. Robot” score) took a deep dive into ’60s Hollywood movie scores to evoke the anger and pain between Davis and Crawford during their competitive stint co-starring in “Whatever Happened To Baby Jane?...
- 8/11/2017
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Apparently the TV Academy will only go so far in honoring sci-fi when it comes to the below-the-line craft nominations. While HBO’s “Westworld” and Netflix’s “Stranger Things” deservedly snagged 12 and 11 noms, respectively, FX’s “Legion” was totally shut out. That’s right: Noah Hawley’s mind-blowing Marvel superhero deconstruction didn’t get recognition for either Michael Wylie’s eye-popping production design or Dana Gonzales’s experimental cinematography. Perhaps it was too subversive for its own good.
“Westworld” Rules
With HBO’s “Game of Thrones” out of the running this season, the void was filled by the brilliant re-imagining of Michael Crichton’s adult theme park. Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy wisely took a more graphic and philosophical approach to A.I. The brutal sex and violence definitely tapped a cultural nerve.
It’s about beauty and ugliness in this collision of sci-fi and the western. Paul Cameron’s...
“Westworld” Rules
With HBO’s “Game of Thrones” out of the running this season, the void was filled by the brilliant re-imagining of Michael Crichton’s adult theme park. Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy wisely took a more graphic and philosophical approach to A.I. The brutal sex and violence definitely tapped a cultural nerve.
It’s about beauty and ugliness in this collision of sci-fi and the western. Paul Cameron’s...
- 7/13/2017
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Without a doubt, one of the biggest hits last year, in any medium, was Stranger Things. Netflix’s sci-fi/horror series came from seemingly nowhere and took the world by storm, hooking viewers almost instantly with its gripping and intriguing mysteries and likeable characters. Not to mention all the nods and references it made towards classic ’80s properties. As such, it was no surprise when a second season was announced for October of this year.
Pegged for a Halloween premiere on Netflix, word is that the show’s next outing is more horror-oriented than the first, while composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein have been busy teasing an extended stint in the Upside Down – presumably to rescue Millie Bobby Brown’s Eleven, Eggos and all. But for all of the Stranger Things coverage currently littering the Internet, there are precious few details out there regarding the actual story arc of...
Pegged for a Halloween premiere on Netflix, word is that the show’s next outing is more horror-oriented than the first, while composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein have been busy teasing an extended stint in the Upside Down – presumably to rescue Millie Bobby Brown’s Eleven, Eggos and all. But for all of the Stranger Things coverage currently littering the Internet, there are precious few details out there regarding the actual story arc of...
- 6/16/2017
- by Matt Joseph
- We Got This Covered
Without a doubt, one of the biggest hits last year, in any medium, was Stranger Things. Netflix’s sci-fi/horror series came from seemingly nowhere and took the world by storm, hooking viewers almost instantly with its gripping and intriguing mysteries and likeable characters. Not to mention all the nods and references it made towards classic ’80s properties. As such, it was no surprise when a second season was announced for October of this year.
Pegged for a Halloween premiere on Netflix, word is that the show’s next outing is more horror-oriented than the first, while composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein have been busy teasing an extended stint in the Upside Down – presumably to rescue Millie Bobby Brown’s Eleven, Eggos and all. But for all of the Stranger Things coverage currently littering the Internet, there are precious few details out there regarding the actual story arc of...
Pegged for a Halloween premiere on Netflix, word is that the show’s next outing is more horror-oriented than the first, while composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein have been busy teasing an extended stint in the Upside Down – presumably to rescue Millie Bobby Brown’s Eleven, Eggos and all. But for all of the Stranger Things coverage currently littering the Internet, there are precious few details out there regarding the actual story arc of...
- 6/8/2017
- by Matt Joseph
- We Got This Covered
Without a doubt, one of the biggest hits last year, in any medium, was Stranger Things. Netflix’s sci-fi/horror series came from seemingly nowhere and took the world by storm, hooking viewers almost instantly with its gripping and intriguing mysteries and likeable characters. Not to mention all the nods and references it made towards classic ’80s properties. As such, it was no surprise when a second season was announced for October of this year.
Pegged for a Halloween premiere on Netflix, word is that the show’s next outing is more horror-oriented than the first, while composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein have been busy teasing an extended stint in the Upside Down – presumably to rescue Millie Bobby Brown’s Eleven, Eggos and all. But for all of the Stranger Things coverage currently littering the Internet, there are precious few details out there regarding the actual story arc of...
Pegged for a Halloween premiere on Netflix, word is that the show’s next outing is more horror-oriented than the first, while composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein have been busy teasing an extended stint in the Upside Down – presumably to rescue Millie Bobby Brown’s Eleven, Eggos and all. But for all of the Stranger Things coverage currently littering the Internet, there are precious few details out there regarding the actual story arc of...
- 6/2/2017
- by Matt Joseph
- We Got This Covered
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Though he’s been caught up in the whirlwind of Neil Marshall’s planned Hellboy reboot in recent days, David Harbour will soon be circling back to the quaint town of Hawkins, Indiana for Stranger Things season 2.
Pegged for a Halloween premiere on Netflix, word is that the show’s second season is more horror-oriented than the first, while composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein have been busy teasing an extended stint in the Upside Down – presumably to rescue Millie Bobby Brown’s Eleven, Eggos and all. But for all of the Stranger Things coverage currently littering the Internet, there are precious few details out there regarding the actual story arc of season 2.
That radio silence will likely remain intact until Netflix decides to conjure up a full trailer, but Deadline has today unearthed the...
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Though he’s been caught up in the whirlwind of Neil Marshall’s planned Hellboy reboot in recent days, David Harbour will soon be circling back to the quaint town of Hawkins, Indiana for Stranger Things season 2.
Pegged for a Halloween premiere on Netflix, word is that the show’s second season is more horror-oriented than the first, while composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein have been busy teasing an extended stint in the Upside Down – presumably to rescue Millie Bobby Brown’s Eleven, Eggos and all. But for all of the Stranger Things coverage currently littering the Internet, there are precious few details out there regarding the actual story arc of season 2.
That radio silence will likely remain intact until Netflix decides to conjure up a full trailer, but Deadline has today unearthed the...
- 5/15/2017
- by Michael Briers
- We Got This Covered
Brace yourselves, “Stranger Things” fans — it sounds like you’ll be getting a much bigger view of the Upside-Down when the supernatural Netflix series returns for a second season.
“Stranger Things” composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein recently spoke during a South by Southwest podcast to discuss their approach to writing music for the series. In the process, they dropped some information about how the Upside-Down — the mysterious world briefly explored by Jim Hopper (David Harbour) and Joyce Byers (Winona Ryder) in the first season — will be depicted in the new batch of episodes...
“Stranger Things” composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein recently spoke during a South by Southwest podcast to discuss their approach to writing music for the series. In the process, they dropped some information about how the Upside-Down — the mysterious world briefly explored by Jim Hopper (David Harbour) and Joyce Byers (Winona Ryder) in the first season — will be depicted in the new batch of episodes...
- 3/17/2017
- by Tim Kenneally
- The Wrap
I know it has some haters out there, but I absolutely adored the first season of Netflix's Stranger Things. I've seen complaints that it's nothing more than a pastiche of genre tropes thrown together, but I think the way the show clearly loved its characters and found evocative ways to tell its story (which, sure, referenced ton of '80s movies in the process) was a hell of a lot of fun.
We've known for a while that season 2 would be a little darker than season 1, but now the composers of the show's score — Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein — have confirmed that in a new interview with The Vinyl Factory (via The Playlist). Dixon said:
“We are working on it. It should be interesting. I think they’ve already come out and said that things are going to be a bit darker and weirder. We’ve yet to really see what that looks like.
We've known for a while that season 2 would be a little darker than season 1, but now the composers of the show's score — Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein — have confirmed that in a new interview with The Vinyl Factory (via The Playlist). Dixon said:
“We are working on it. It should be interesting. I think they’ve already come out and said that things are going to be a bit darker and weirder. We’ve yet to really see what that looks like.
- 3/17/2017
- by Ben Pearson
- GeekTyrant
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The first season of Netflix’s mega-popular horror fantasy series, Stranger Things, introduced viewers to a creepy parallel dimension that came to be known as the Upside Down. The first few episodes offered teasing glimpses of the world in which the Demogorgon resided, until later in the season several characters actually ventured there themselves – but, we never actually found out what this dark alternate universe was or how it came to be.
It sounds like that’s going to change in season 2, though, as the show’s composers have revealed (let slip?) that we’re going to be spending more time in the Upside Down when Stranger Things returns this Halloween. During an interview with Ars Technica, Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein were asked about their choice of musical accompaniment for the sinister realm, and...
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The first season of Netflix’s mega-popular horror fantasy series, Stranger Things, introduced viewers to a creepy parallel dimension that came to be known as the Upside Down. The first few episodes offered teasing glimpses of the world in which the Demogorgon resided, until later in the season several characters actually ventured there themselves – but, we never actually found out what this dark alternate universe was or how it came to be.
It sounds like that’s going to change in season 2, though, as the show’s composers have revealed (let slip?) that we’re going to be spending more time in the Upside Down when Stranger Things returns this Halloween. During an interview with Ars Technica, Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein were asked about their choice of musical accompaniment for the sinister realm, and...
- 3/17/2017
- by Mark Cassidy
- We Got This Covered
Stranger Things star David K. Harbour delivered a fiery speech at the SAG Awards, issuing "a call of arms" to the creative community "to battle against fear, self-centeredness and exclusivity of our predominately narcissistic culture" in the wake of Donald Trump's executive order Friday targeting Muslims.
"In light of all that's going on in the world today, it's difficult to celebrate," the actor said on behalf of the cast after Stranger Things won the SAG award for Best Television Show. While the Screen Actors Guild was celebrating the best...
"In light of all that's going on in the world today, it's difficult to celebrate," the actor said on behalf of the cast after Stranger Things won the SAG award for Best Television Show. While the Screen Actors Guild was celebrating the best...
- 1/30/2017
- Rollingstone.com
It’s been awhile since we’ve posted any fan-made stuff for Stranger Things, so here’s a beautiful rendition of some of the musical score as a cello medley. It was performed by Nicholas Yee, Kyle Dixon, and Michael Stein.
Stranger Things was an instant classic that became a pop culture phenomenon. Luckily the story will continue with a second season, and I can’t wait to see how that plays out.
Stranger Things was an instant classic that became a pop culture phenomenon. Luckily the story will continue with a second season, and I can’t wait to see how that plays out.
- 12/26/2016
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
2016 was a tough one.
It’s not like nothing good happened this year (especially if you’re a Cubs fan), but after twelve months of tough times, heartbreaking losses, and a bitterly contested election, many of us are facing down the new year feeling a little drained.
But, while it may not have been easy on the soul, the year was actually pretty great for music.
Watch: 2017 Grammy Awards: Beyonce, Adele, Justin Bieber and More Land Nominations
It would be impossible to list all the songs that lifted us up, and helped us get through the year, so we’ll just do 16.
Here are some of the songs that saved 2016. (Warning: Nsfw lyrics in some of the songs).
1. Beyoncé - “Formation”
Why it saved 2016: To address the elephant in the room, this entire list could have just basically been Lemonade. But when the “Formation” video dropped, Queen B found a way to use her mega-star platform...
It’s not like nothing good happened this year (especially if you’re a Cubs fan), but after twelve months of tough times, heartbreaking losses, and a bitterly contested election, many of us are facing down the new year feeling a little drained.
But, while it may not have been easy on the soul, the year was actually pretty great for music.
Watch: 2017 Grammy Awards: Beyonce, Adele, Justin Bieber and More Land Nominations
It would be impossible to list all the songs that lifted us up, and helped us get through the year, so we’ll just do 16.
Here are some of the songs that saved 2016. (Warning: Nsfw lyrics in some of the songs).
1. Beyoncé - “Formation”
Why it saved 2016: To address the elephant in the room, this entire list could have just basically been Lemonade. But when the “Formation” video dropped, Queen B found a way to use her mega-star platform...
- 12/11/2016
- Entertainment Tonight
Stranger Things Volume One
Created by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein of Austin-based synthwave group Survive, the Stranger Things score made as big a splash as the show. And rightfully so. The ominous synth tracks call to mind ’80s favorites, but are a tad more tasteful with sparse and serene sounds. “Friendship” is bubbly without bubbling over, providing a restrained take on a positive relationship; the album gradually builds momentum with tracks like “The Upside Down.” Packaged by Vinyl Me, Please as a limited-edition pressing, this double LP comes on dark red vinyl with black marbling and also includes an 8x10 print of Eleven walking in the Upside Down in a gatefold sleeve. This gives the 36-track score, which stands on it own from the hyped television show, the presentation it deserves, making for a great addition to your record collection. [Becca James]
Car Boys
The idea of watching people ...
Created by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein of Austin-based synthwave group Survive, the Stranger Things score made as big a splash as the show. And rightfully so. The ominous synth tracks call to mind ’80s favorites, but are a tad more tasteful with sparse and serene sounds. “Friendship” is bubbly without bubbling over, providing a restrained take on a positive relationship; the album gradually builds momentum with tracks like “The Upside Down.” Packaged by Vinyl Me, Please as a limited-edition pressing, this double LP comes on dark red vinyl with black marbling and also includes an 8x10 print of Eleven walking in the Upside Down in a gatefold sleeve. This gives the 36-track score, which stands on it own from the hyped television show, the presentation it deserves, making for a great addition to your record collection. [Becca James]
Car Boys
The idea of watching people ...
- 12/10/2016
- by Sam Barsanti, William Hughes, Becca James
- avclub.com
With its heartbeat bass background and soaring synthesizers, the Stranger Things theme song immediately transports listeners back to the ’80s in a small town called Hawkins, and a recent cover of the song by three cello players has a similarly powerful effect on the earlobes.
Performed by Nicholas D. Yee, Adam Caulfield, and Katherine Pernal, the cello cover of Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein's Stranger Things main title music is a wondrous, spot-on take on the already iconic theme.
From Nicholas D. Yee: "Medley of themes from the "Stranger Things" series, originally by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein. Featuring my good friends Adam Caulfield and Katherine Pernal!
Like many others, I was captivated by the "Stranger Things" series when it came out earlier this year and fell in love with its exciting storytelling, engrossing set design and unique blend of creepiness, nostalgia and heartwarming moments. The music adds such...
Performed by Nicholas D. Yee, Adam Caulfield, and Katherine Pernal, the cello cover of Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein's Stranger Things main title music is a wondrous, spot-on take on the already iconic theme.
From Nicholas D. Yee: "Medley of themes from the "Stranger Things" series, originally by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein. Featuring my good friends Adam Caulfield and Katherine Pernal!
Like many others, I was captivated by the "Stranger Things" series when it came out earlier this year and fell in love with its exciting storytelling, engrossing set design and unique blend of creepiness, nostalgia and heartwarming moments. The music adds such...
- 11/9/2016
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
One of the many things that sets John Carpenter apart from other filmmakers is that he scored many of his classic films himself using a bank of analog synthesizers. The eerie soundtracks Carpenter created for films such as Halloween, The Fog, and Assault On Precinct 13 were hugely influential on other film and TV scores, as well as a generation of electronic musicians that followed—as recently heard in the throwback synthwave music Survive’s Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein recorded for Stranger Things.
Just in time for Halloween, Justin DeLay of Reverb has offered up a video tutorial explaining exactly how Carpenter achieved those blood-chilling sounds. The 14-minute video is both a miniature music lesson and a tour through a bunch of old-school gear, like the Ensoniq Esq-1, a classic Moog synth, and the fabled Prophet-5 and Prophet-10. And because this is a tribute to John Carpenter, Michael Myers...
Just in time for Halloween, Justin DeLay of Reverb has offered up a video tutorial explaining exactly how Carpenter achieved those blood-chilling sounds. The 14-minute video is both a miniature music lesson and a tour through a bunch of old-school gear, like the Ensoniq Esq-1, a classic Moog synth, and the fabled Prophet-5 and Prophet-10. And because this is a tribute to John Carpenter, Michael Myers...
- 10/31/2016
- by Joe Blevins
- avclub.com
The composers of the dark, ominous soundtrack for Netflix’s “Stranger Things” just released a new music video that’s worth a look and a listen.
The artists responsible, Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, make up part of the retro-electronic-duo Survive. Directed by Chris Rusch, the video features dynamic drone shots and the duo mixing their sounds in what looks like a dimly-lit warehouse. The video was shot in Los Angeles, Croatia and the band’s home city of Austin, TX. The featured track “Copter” comes from their second album, “RR7349,” and was produced by Relapse Records.
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’: Watch a Video of Netflix’s Throwback Series Side by Side With Its Retro Influences
Matt and Ross Duffer, the brothers who created “Stranger Things,” were apparently fans of Survive and contacted the band to see if they could use their track “Dirge” for the show’s original mini-trailer,...
The artists responsible, Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, make up part of the retro-electronic-duo Survive. Directed by Chris Rusch, the video features dynamic drone shots and the duo mixing their sounds in what looks like a dimly-lit warehouse. The video was shot in Los Angeles, Croatia and the band’s home city of Austin, TX. The featured track “Copter” comes from their second album, “RR7349,” and was produced by Relapse Records.
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’: Watch a Video of Netflix’s Throwback Series Side by Side With Its Retro Influences
Matt and Ross Duffer, the brothers who created “Stranger Things,” were apparently fans of Survive and contacted the band to see if they could use their track “Dirge” for the show’s original mini-trailer,...
- 10/26/2016
- by Alec McPike
- Indiewire
If you like the soundtrack to Netflix’s hit series “Stranger Things,” you’ll probably enjoy experimental synth group Survive’s new album, “RR7349.”
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’ Composers Interview: Duo Discusses Soundtrack, That Haunting Theme Song and More
Two of the four members of the Austin, Texas band, Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, put together the two-part soundtrack for “Stranger Things.” Dixon and Stein jumped at the opportunity to work on the show when contacted by creators Matt and Ross Duffer, aka the Duffer Brothers.
“The [Duffer brothers] reached out to us last July with a trailer they had made using one of our songs. It’s a song called ‘Dirge,’” Dixon told IndieWire in a recent interview. “Once they got greenlit, they reached out to see if we were still a band, if we were still available. We were obviously interested and sent them a bunch of unreleased stuff to listen to in the meantime.
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’ Composers Interview: Duo Discusses Soundtrack, That Haunting Theme Song and More
Two of the four members of the Austin, Texas band, Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, put together the two-part soundtrack for “Stranger Things.” Dixon and Stein jumped at the opportunity to work on the show when contacted by creators Matt and Ross Duffer, aka the Duffer Brothers.
“The [Duffer brothers] reached out to us last July with a trailer they had made using one of our songs. It’s a song called ‘Dirge,’” Dixon told IndieWire in a recent interview. “Once they got greenlit, they reached out to see if we were still a band, if we were still available. We were obviously interested and sent them a bunch of unreleased stuff to listen to in the meantime.
- 10/3/2016
- by Graham Winfrey
- Indiewire
Netflix’s surprise hit series Stranger Things has been popping up everywhere over the last few months, gaining support from electronic music fans due to its 80’s styled synth driven score by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein. We’ve already heard deadmau5 drop a rendition of the show’s theme song during a live stream a few weeks back, and now a video clip has surfaced of What So Not remixing the hauntingly familiar synth arpeggios during a recent DJ gig.
In the short video clip, we can hear the instantly recognizable synth melody take over, before What So Not mixes in his trademark brand of clanking rhythms and massive chords alongside the theme’s creeping soundscapes.
@WhatSoNot X Stranger Things pic.twitter.com/u92DBHIHBz
— Wruce Bayne☔️ (@Ericknowison) September 17, 2016
What So Not’s Stranger Things remix comes during a creative stint for the Aussie producer, who recently dropped his new Ep Divide & Conquer,...
In the short video clip, we can hear the instantly recognizable synth melody take over, before What So Not mixes in his trademark brand of clanking rhythms and massive chords alongside the theme’s creeping soundscapes.
@WhatSoNot X Stranger Things pic.twitter.com/u92DBHIHBz
— Wruce Bayne☔️ (@Ericknowison) September 17, 2016
What So Not’s Stranger Things remix comes during a creative stint for the Aussie producer, who recently dropped his new Ep Divide & Conquer,...
- 9/21/2016
- by Connor Jones
- We Got This Covered
The “Stranger Things” score haunts the Netflix series just as profoundly as the Duffer brother’s lush, dark visuals and tension-filled direction. It’s amassed widespread excitement and covers, including a mash-up of the themes from “Stranger Things” and “Twin Peaks.” Now the soundtrack has caught the attention of legendary synth group Tangerine Dream, which released two covers with accompanying retro font that gives a nod to the “Stranger Things” opening credits.
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’ Composers Interview: Duo Discusses Soundtrack, That Haunting Theme Song and More
The creators of the series’ memorable audio backdrop are Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, two members of The Austin-based electric synth-band S U R V I V E which caught the attention of the Duffer brothers. When asked about their inspiration in an interview with Rolling Stone, Dixon cited many movie soundtracks from Tangerine Dream:
“There’s a Tangerine Dream score for ‘Sorcerer’ that’s great.
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’ Composers Interview: Duo Discusses Soundtrack, That Haunting Theme Song and More
The creators of the series’ memorable audio backdrop are Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, two members of The Austin-based electric synth-band S U R V I V E which caught the attention of the Duffer brothers. When asked about their inspiration in an interview with Rolling Stone, Dixon cited many movie soundtracks from Tangerine Dream:
“There’s a Tangerine Dream score for ‘Sorcerer’ that’s great.
- 9/13/2016
- by Zipporah Smith
- Indiewire
Tangerine Dream should be no stranger to any fans of 80’s cinema. I learned about the group via Firestarter, a score that I still love to this day. Lately, there has been a lot of new synth groups and solo acts popping up and its popularity is evident by the craze and appreciation of the music behind Netflix’s sleeper hit, Stranger Things.
As you may know, the show used three of Td’s songs/compositions in its first season. Well, it looks like Tangerine Dream either dug the show or really dug the music by Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein (one-half of S U R V I V E) because Tangerine Dream just covered/paid tribute to the main theme of Stranger Things. Take a listen below.
It’s important to note that Tangerine Dream’s lineup has consistently changed. The founding member, Edgar Froese, passed on in January of last year.
As you may know, the show used three of Td’s songs/compositions in its first season. Well, it looks like Tangerine Dream either dug the show or really dug the music by Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein (one-half of S U R V I V E) because Tangerine Dream just covered/paid tribute to the main theme of Stranger Things. Take a listen below.
It’s important to note that Tangerine Dream’s lineup has consistently changed. The founding member, Edgar Froese, passed on in January of last year.
- 9/13/2016
- by Andy Triefenbach
- Destroy the Brain
Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein's Stranger Things score became one of the most acclaimed elements of the hit Netflix series this summer, with many noting the debt owed to electronic pioneers Tangerine Dream, who famously crafted synth-driven soundtracks for such classic/cult '80s films as Risky Business, Legend, Near Dark and Three O'Clock High in addition to releasing over 100 albums over the course of their nearly five-decade career. "We listen to a lot of Tangerine Dream and they did a ton of soundtracks," said Dixon in a recent interview with Salon. "There’s a few key soundtracks by them that definitely influenced us in a lot of ways, like Thief and Sorcerer." Well, the group clearly caught wind of the reference, as over the last several days the trio -- currently consisting of Thorsten Quaeschning, Hoshiko Yamane and Ulrich Schnauss -- have released three tracks on Soundcloud that pay tribute to the series,...
- 9/12/2016
- by Chris Eggertsen
- Hitfix
Sometimes things truly seemed destined to happen, an example being this haunting, dare I say moving, mashup of the “Stranger Things” and “Twin Peaks” theme songs from Seattle’s Prom Queen. The aptly titled “Stranger Peaks” proves once again that too much synth is never enough.
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’ Soundtracks: Listen to Them Both Here for Free
“I fell in love with ‘Stranger Things’ the first time I heard the theme song,” said Prom Queen, “and ‘Laura’s Theme’ is my favorite thing to play on any synthesizer. It’s so beautiful.”
Similarities abound between the two shows, as it’s no secret that “Stranger Things,” a Netflix summer sensation and supernatural hometown thriller from brothers/directors Matt and Ross Duffer, finds its roots in ’80s sci-ci and horror flicks from the likes of Steven Spielberg and John Carpenter — and of course, from David Lynch’s TV masterpiece. It...
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’ Soundtracks: Listen to Them Both Here for Free
“I fell in love with ‘Stranger Things’ the first time I heard the theme song,” said Prom Queen, “and ‘Laura’s Theme’ is my favorite thing to play on any synthesizer. It’s so beautiful.”
Similarities abound between the two shows, as it’s no secret that “Stranger Things,” a Netflix summer sensation and supernatural hometown thriller from brothers/directors Matt and Ross Duffer, finds its roots in ’80s sci-ci and horror flicks from the likes of Steven Spielberg and John Carpenter — and of course, from David Lynch’s TV masterpiece. It...
- 9/6/2016
- by Annakeara Stinson
- Indiewire
In my estimation, Stranger Things and Twin Peaks are...nothing alike. They both take place in small towns and feature spooky goings-on, and that's about it! But I quite like this mashup of the series' respective theme songs, which gives us a synth-y version of Angelo Badalamenti's classic tune, expertly woven with Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein's already-beloved opening music for Netflix's blockbuster summer hit. I would be remiss not to mention the Soundcloud user who uploaded the track calls him or herself "Prom Queen," which I'll just pretend is a tribute to Laura Palmer and call it a day. (h/t Bloody Disgusting)...
- 9/2/2016
- by Chris Eggertsen
- Hitfix
Most fans of Netflix’s hit series “Stranger Things” agree that one of the many great things about the show is the creepily nostalgic music that’s reminiscent of the ’70s and ’80s. The two-part soundtrack was created by Survive’s Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, who jumped at the opportunity to work on the show when contacted by creators Matt and Ross Duffer, aka the Duffer Brothers.
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’ Composers Interview: Duo Discusses Soundtrack, That Haunting Theme Song and More
“The [Duffer brothers] reached out to us last July with a trailer they had made using one of our songs. It’s a song called ‘Dirge,’” Dixon told IndieWire in a recent interview. “Once they got greenlit, they reached out to see if we were still a band, if we were still available. We were obviously interested and sent them a bunch of unreleased stuff to listen to in the meantime.
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’ Composers Interview: Duo Discusses Soundtrack, That Haunting Theme Song and More
“The [Duffer brothers] reached out to us last July with a trailer they had made using one of our songs. It’s a song called ‘Dirge,’” Dixon told IndieWire in a recent interview. “Once they got greenlit, they reached out to see if we were still a band, if we were still available. We were obviously interested and sent them a bunch of unreleased stuff to listen to in the meantime.
- 9/2/2016
- by Graham Winfrey
- Indiewire
On this week’s episode of Cinematic Sound Radio, we’ll be featuring music from six brand new scores. We open with music from one of the finest scores of the year, Pete's Dragon by Daniel Hart. You’ll also hear brand new music from the Netflix TV series Stranger Things by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein. Listen on PodTyrant
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- 9/1/2016
- by Ben Pearson
- GeekTyrant
Just in case you've been living in the Upside Down, let me get you up to speed: Stranger Things Season 2 is officially happening. And as revealed by the show's unreasonably-attractive creators the Duffer Brothers, the new episodes will be set a year after the events of the first season, which would place the characters squarely in the latter days of 1984 (Season 1 took place between November and December of 1983). While that's not a whole lot later, it's still enough time for a massive number of pop-culture and consumer products to have been introduced in the interim, from film to TV to music to technology. So what, pray tell, will Mike, Dustin, Lucas, Nancy, Jonathan and Steve (but not Barb, obvs) be using, watching, wearing, reading and listening to in the new season that wouldn't have been available to them in the prior timeline because they didn't exist yet? For those curious...
- 9/1/2016
- by Chris Eggertsen
- Hitfix
Netflix has been riding high on a wave of success with their recent hit series Stranger Things, due in no small part to its nostalgic John Carpenter-esque score with its revival of 80s analog synth music. The electronic music community has been largely favorable of the score composed by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, and now deadmau5 has delivered his own unofficial remix of the theme song.
Deadmau5 first began toying with the theme earlier in the month during a live stream as he attempted to recreate the tune with his vast array of analog synths and studio gear. His studio tinkering has now been ripped and uploaded to YouTube and it’s definitely a worthy listen. The remix kicks off with hip hop beats alongside the repeated arpeggio phrase from the original version, as deadmau5 works his signature synth prowess with doom laden bass and ominous pads.
While...
Deadmau5 first began toying with the theme earlier in the month during a live stream as he attempted to recreate the tune with his vast array of analog synths and studio gear. His studio tinkering has now been ripped and uploaded to YouTube and it’s definitely a worthy listen. The remix kicks off with hip hop beats alongside the repeated arpeggio phrase from the original version, as deadmau5 works his signature synth prowess with doom laden bass and ominous pads.
While...
- 8/30/2016
- by Connor Jones
- We Got This Covered
‘Stranger Things’ Composers S U R V I V E Debut New Song “Wardenclyffe” and Announce Fall Tour Dates
Austin-based S U R V I V E has come to wide attention in the last mont for featuring “Stranger Things” composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein. The electronic quartet has just released a new single from its upcoming album “RR7349” and announced fall tour dates. Listen to “Wardenclyffe” and find those dates — which don’t include a stop in the show’s fictional setting of Hawkins, Indiana — below. NPR first debuted the track, which along with the full album will be available on September 30 via Relapse Records.
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’: How the Netflix Drama’s Sonic Environment Was Created
09-30 Austin, TX — Barracuda
10-04 Tucson, Az — Club Congress
10-05 San Diego, CA — Soda Bar
10-06 Los Angeles, CA — Echoplex
10-07 San Francisco, CA — Elbo Room
10-08 Sacramento, CA — Harlow’s
10-11 Portland, Or — Holoscene
10-12 Seattle, Wa — The Crocodile
10-14 Santa Cruz, CA — The Catalyst Atrium
10-16 Joshua Tree,...
Read More: ‘Stranger Things’: How the Netflix Drama’s Sonic Environment Was Created
09-30 Austin, TX — Barracuda
10-04 Tucson, Az — Club Congress
10-05 San Diego, CA — Soda Bar
10-06 Los Angeles, CA — Echoplex
10-07 San Francisco, CA — Elbo Room
10-08 Sacramento, CA — Harlow’s
10-11 Portland, Or — Holoscene
10-12 Seattle, Wa — The Crocodile
10-14 Santa Cruz, CA — The Catalyst Atrium
10-16 Joshua Tree,...
- 8/23/2016
- by Michael Nordine
- Indiewire
**Spoilers ahead** Netflix‘s summer smash hit series “Stranger Things” has provided audiences with no shortage of elements to latch onto. Whether it’s the killer score by Matt Dixon and Michael Stein, the return of Winona Ryder in a role that we haven’t quite seen from her before, or all the Amblin-esque touches, Matt and Ross […]
The post “We’ll Make Sure There’s Some Justice For Barb”: Matt Duffer Talks ‘Stranger Things’ Season 2 appeared first on The Playlist.
The post “We’ll Make Sure There’s Some Justice For Barb”: Matt Duffer Talks ‘Stranger Things’ Season 2 appeared first on The Playlist.
- 8/22/2016
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
A couple of weeks ago, I spent a few days immersed in Netflix’s new original series, Stranger Things. As someone who grew up in the 1980s and ‘90s, the show proved a wonderful exercise in nostalgia; a delightful amalgam of the wide-eyed Spielbergian ingenuousness and nightmarescapes of Stephen King that so informed my youth. From the moment the opening credits began I was hooked and a large part of this had to do with the show’s opening theme music. Composed by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, members of the Austin-based electronic outfit Survive, the show’s theme immediately brings us into the curious world of Stranger Things. Analog synthesizer motifs creep in and out of the mix, pulsating ominously, intoning dread. A percussive heartbeat simmers underneath, propelling us forward into awaiting disaster and, paradoxically, backward to another time and place. When combined with the show’s titles—its...
- 8/22/2016
- MUBI
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