Philadelphia-based experimental guitarist Emily Robb steps into new creative territory with the release of her soundtrack for the sci-fi short film “The Space Between Attack and Decay.” Set to launch on January 23, 2024, this collaboration with Philadelphia filmmaker Jessica Kourkounis marks Robb’s first foray into composing music specifically for an on-screen narrative.
Kourkounis, who co-developed the project with screenwriter Richie Fravel, initially approached Robb drawn by her unique musical style. Robb embraced the opportunity to work in a different medium, embracing the spontaneity that came with it. “I just thought: OK, I’m just going to come up with … different things and see if any of these vibes stick with them,” she explained. The process of creating music that supports another artist’s vision turned out to be an engaging challenge for her.
Exploring New Dimensions in Sound
Robb is no stranger to the underground music scene, having gained recognition since her debut solo album, “How to Moonwalk,” was released in 2021. Over the years, she has focused on solo guitar projects while engaging in various collaborations. Her distinctive sound is characterized by monolithic drone and sustained cycles of sound, reflecting her ability to immerse herself fully in the music.
In crafting the film’s score, Robb faced an immediate learning curve. The first scene needing music had yet to be filmed, leaving her to envision the actors’ movements based solely on the script. This creative leap led to the composition “Dance Music,” which transitions from wandering acoustic guitar into a layered rock framework that her fans will recognize. Another track, “Shiny Sister Theme,” captures the essence of a desolate landscape, echoing the style of classic spaghetti westerns. In contrast, “Hell Music” evokes a sense of existential dread with its dissonant feedback and shimmering drone.
The album also features various Foley sounds, including bubbling water and environmental noises, which were integral to building the film’s immersive world. Robb collaborated closely with Kourkounis to capture these sounds, enhancing the overall auditory experience.
Robb expressed her excitement about the project, stating, “It was a really cool learning experience, and it was really fun to see how it all kind of came together.” She relished the freedom to experiment creatively beyond her solo work and expressed interest in pursuing more soundtrack opportunities in the future.
Celebrating the Release
“The Space Between Attack and Decay” has garnered attention in various film festivals, earning accolades such as the Best Experimental Film award from the Philadelphia Independent Film Festival. The film features performances by notable actors like Boris McGiver and narration by James McAvoy, adding to its appeal.
To celebrate the soundtrack’s release, Robb will perform at Solar Myth in South Philadelphia on January 31, 2024. She will be joined on stage by fellow musicians, including her bandmates from Astute Palate, Richie Charles and Dan Provenzano, as well as Dustin Burrows from their side project, The Frankensteins. The opening act will feature the band Walnut Brain, with Kourkounis’ film screening before the concert.
Robb’s devotion to the DIY ethos is evident in her artistic philosophy. She encourages musicians to pursue their passions without getting bogged down by the constraints of the modern music industry. “If you want to play guitar, just pick up a guitar and play,” she advised. This perspective not only drives her own work but also fosters a sense of community within Philadelphia’s experimental music scene.
With her new soundtrack, Emily Robb continues to blur the lines between music and visual storytelling, inviting listeners to explore the depths of her innovative soundscapes.
