Music from one of the most specific science-fiction films in the history of Czechoslovak cinematography, and a unique chapter in the rich artistic output of Martin Kratochvíl. On the 35th anniversary of the recording of the material, „Temné slunce” has finally been released.
„Temne slunce” ("Dark Sun") is an adaptation of „Krakatit”, a novel by Karel Capek published in the interwar period. It tells a story of the inventor of an ultra-dangerous explosive that is trying as hard as possible to hide the formula from the great of this world, to prevent it from total destruction. The film adaptation of Otakar Vávra transposes the story to the Cold War reality, full electronics and secret agents. The film was received as a cheap propaganda trick, but also… as an unusually impressive action movie. The music was composed by Martin Kratochvíl, commonly known as a leader of the Jazz Q group, but „Temné slunce” is far different than his typical work. Industrial spaces in the film were illustrated by the sound of analogue synthesizers, sultry romanticism – by poignant passion of violins and guitar, and the bloodcurdling scenes of horror – by a unique marriage of funk, fusion and cold, sometimes atonal electronic sounds. All was topped up by two songs, including one surrounded by a specific hippie cult – „Válku valce”, sung by Luboš Pospíšil and C & K Vokal group.
Complete soundtrack from the movie „Dark Sun” has been released on CD for the first time, enriched with alternative versions of selected tracks. The material from original tapes has been digitally remastered in the presence of the composer, and a 28-page booklet contains extensive information on the development of the album (in Polish, English and Czech), unique photos and memorabilia.
This is our first post - hello everyone! I'm reader of this forum for a long time. From now I'll be hapy to share with You some news about our releases. Unreleased polish film music from 60s, 70s & 80s coming soon, including well-known composers.
