2008 Woodie Awards
Soundbyte: Nightmare Revisited
Amanda Goodhue
Issue date: 10/29/08 Section: A&E
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"The Nightmare Before Christmas," a Disney film directed by Tim Burton, blends Halloween with Christmas in a bizarre way and features an array of demented characters, including Jack Skellington, the king of Halloweentown, Sally and Dr. Finkelstein. The film has become increasingly popular in Goth culture.
Oingo Boingo front man Danny Elfman, who composed the original score for the movie, lends his quirky musical genius to artists such as Marilyn Manson, Korn, Amy Lee and the All-American Rejects. The album features 20 songs plus a bonus track, "Oogie Boogie's Song," by the rockabilly band Tiger Army.
Manson's rendition of "This is Halloween" is done perfectly, with his unique Goth style and creepy voice blending with the melody:
"This is Halloween, everybody make a scene/ Trick or treat 'til the neighbors gonna die of fright/ It's our town everybody scream/ In this town of Halloween."
Another favorite is "Kidnap the Sandy Claws," played by rock band Korn. This interpretation is as energetic and fun as the original, yet it encompasses Korn's hard rock guitar rhythms and unmistakable style.
Diehard fans may find Flyleaf's version of "What's This?" to be disappointing, since it is one of the best-known tracks of the movie. While it is not horrible per se, it does not deliver Elfman's intended creativity in the way the other "Nightmare Revisited" artists have.
The album also features eccentric, international flair with Rodrigo y Gabriella's musical version of "Oogie Boogie's Song" and with the Yoshida Brothers version of "Nabbed."
"Nightmare" fans should definitely pick up the "Nightmare Revisited" CD. You will truly enjoy it this Halloween, Christmas, or any other day of the year.
Amanda Goodhue can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com
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