What's Happening?
Los Angeles-based songwriter and filmmaker Vance Kotrla, under his alt-folk band Sci-Fi Romance (SFR), is releasing a new EP titled "October Second." Each track on the EP draws inspiration from classic horror movies, including the 1963 supernatural horror film “The
Haunting,” which was adapted from Shirley Jackson's 1959 novel “The Haunting of Hill House.” Kotrla noted that while horror films are often dismissed, they explore profound themes such as conformity, parenting, disassociation, and the madness of crowds. The EP is a collaboration with Vienna-based opera singer Ella Kristin Vogel, with whom Kotrla has been making music since high school. Vogel reconnected with Kotrla in Seattle to record vocal tracks for several songs. Much of the EP was recorded at York Recording in Los Angeles, where SFR has recorded since 2012, with additional sessions at London Bridge Studios in Seattle, known for recording grunge bands like Alice in Chains and Soundgarden.
Why It's Important?
The release of "October Second" highlights the enduring influence of classic horror and literary figures like Shirley Jackson on contemporary music. Kotrla's approach to using horror themes to explore deeper societal and psychological issues demonstrates how art can transcend genre boundaries to deliver meaningful commentary. The collaboration between Kotrla and opera singer Ella Kristin Vogel also showcases a unique fusion of alt-folk and classical vocal styles, potentially broadening the appeal of both genres. This project underscores the creative potential of long-term artistic partnerships, as Kotrla and Vogel have collaborated for over two decades. Furthermore, recording in historic studios like London Bridge Studios connects the new work to a rich musical legacy, which could attract listeners interested in both established and emerging sounds.
What's Next?
Sci-Fi Romance will release their new EP, "October Second," which features songs inspired by classic horror films and Shirley Jackson's work. The band, led by Vance Kotrla and featuring Ella Kristin Vogel, has a history of releasing music since 2010, with five albums, three EPs, and numerous singles to their name. The release of this EP is expected to continue their tradition of dark, percussive folk music. Given Kotrla's background as an award-winning filmmaker and editor, there may be visual components or promotional materials that further explore the horror themes of the EP. The collaboration with Vogel, an opera singer, suggests potential for future cross-genre projects or performances that blend their distinct musical backgrounds.
Beyond the Headlines
The EP's deep dive into classic horror and Shirley Jackson's themes of unease and the fallibility of perception offers a rich cultural commentary. Jackson's work, often centered on female characters struggling with visibility or scrutiny, resonates with contemporary discussions on identity and societal roles. Kotrla's choice to focus on films with female protagonists, influenced by his collaboration with Vogel, adds another layer to this exploration, potentially offering new perspectives on classic narratives through a musical lens. The project also subtly critiques the dismissal of horror as a 'trashy' genre, elevating it as a vehicle for profound artistic expression. This artistic endeavor could spark renewed interest in the psychological depth of horror cinema and literature, encouraging audiences to look beyond surface-level scares to the deeper human conditions they explore.
