Philadelphia-based experimental guitarist Emily Robb is venturing into new creative territory with her upcoming album, “Soundtrack to The Space Between Attack and Decay.” Scheduled for release on January 31, 2024, the album features music specifically composed for a science fiction short film directed by Jessica Kourkounis. This collaboration marks Robb’s first experience creating a soundtrack for an on-screen narrative, blending her unique sound with the film’s surreal vision.
Kourkounis, who developed the project with screenwriter Richie Fravel, chose Robb for her distinctive musical style. She approached the guitarist several years ago, captivated by Robb’s ability to create emotive soundscapes. Embracing the challenge, Robb expressed excitement about working in a new medium. “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 said. “The task of creating something that served someone else’s creative vision was fun.”
Exploring New Dimensions in Sound
Robb has established herself as a prominent figure in Philadelphia’s underground music scene since the release of her debut solo album, “How to Moonwalk,” in 2021. Known for her innovative guitar techniques, she has spent recent years focusing on solo projects while occasionally collaborating with other artists. Her style is characterized by monolithic drone and sustained cycles of sound, allowing her to immerse herself fully in the music. “The feeling of not thinking is freedom,” Robb remarked, highlighting her approach to creativity.
The collaboration with Kourkounis presented Robb with a unique learning opportunity. The first scene for which music was requested had not yet been filmed, leaving Robb to draw from the script alone. The resulting track, “Dance Music,” begins with an acoustic guitar before evolving into a feedback-laden rock framework, combining her distinctive style with a full rhythm section. Another piece, “Shiny Sister Theme,” conjures images of vast, desolate landscapes reminiscent of classic Westerns, while “Hell Music” evokes existential dread through its haunting feedback.
In addition to music, Robb was tasked with creating a variety of Foley sounds to enhance the film’s atmosphere. This included environmental noises like bubbling water and creaking floors. The collaboration even involved Kourkounis, who joined Robb in recording some of these effects.
Robb reflected on the experience, noting how it allowed her to explore creative avenues she might not have considered in her solo work. “It was really cool learning experience, and it was really fun to see how it all kind of came together,” she said. “I would like to do more soundtrack work for that reason, or maybe just let go of the whole idea of ‘What is Emily Robb?’”
A Celebration of Collaboration
“The Space Between Attack and Decay” has garnered attention at various film festivals, earning accolades including the Best Experimental Film award at the Philadelphia Independent Film Festival. The film stars Boris McGiver, known for his roles in “House of Cards” and “Lincoln,” and is narrated by James McAvoy, recognized for his work in “The Last King of Scotland” and “His Dark Materials.”
Robb’s commitment to the DIY ethos is evident in her artistic philosophy. “I find so much of today’s capitalistic world to be a tiresome rigmarole,” she stated. Her advice to aspiring musicians emphasizes the importance of direct creativity over formalities. “If you want to play guitar, just pick up a guitar and play. Find someone else that wants to make noise, and do it with them,” she encouraged.
As part of the album’s launch, Robb will perform at Solar Myth in South Philadelphia on January 31, 2024. She will be joined by fellow musicians from the Philadelphia underground scene, including her bandmates from Astute Palate, Richie Charles and Dan Provenzano, as well as Dustin Burrows from their side project, The Frankensteins. The newly formed ER Band will collaborate on stage, with the Philadelphia group Walnut Brain set to open the show. Kourkounis’ film will screen prior to the performance, creating an immersive experience for the audience.
With the release of “Soundtrack to The Space Between Attack and Decay,” Emily Robb continues to redefine her artistic landscape, merging her guitar mastery with the visual narrative of film, forging a new path in her already impressive career.
