Emily Robb Collaborates on Sci-Fi Soundtrack for Kourkounis Film

Philadelphia-based experimental guitarist Emily Robb is venturing into new artistic territory with the upcoming release of her soundtrack for the science fiction short film, The Space Between Attack and Decay. Set to be released on January 23, 2024, this marks the first time Robb has composed music specifically for a film, collaborating with Philadelphia filmmaker Jessica Kourkounis and screenwriter Richie Fravel.

Kourkounis approached Robb several years ago, captivated by her innovative musical style. Robb embraced the opportunity, seeing it as a chance to explore a new medium that would push her creative boundaries. “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 task of creating something that served someone else’s creative vision was fun.”

Artistic Exploration and Unique Soundscapes

Robb is a well-known figure in Philadelphia’s underground music scene, having gained recognition since her debut solo album, How to Moonwalk, was released in 2021. With a background in various bands, she has focused on solo projects and one-off collaborations. Robb’s music is characterized by emotive power and improvisation, often featuring monolithic drone and sustained sound cycles.

In creating the soundtrack, Robb faced immediate challenges. The first scene needing music had not yet been filmed, so she relied solely on the script. The resulting track, “Dance Music,” combines acoustic guitar with a rock framework, showcasing her signature sound. Another track, “Shiny Sister Theme,” evokes the imagery of an alien landscape, reminiscent of classic spaghetti western scores, while “Hell Music” taps into themes of existential dread.

Robb also incorporated a range of Foley sounds—textural noises like bubbling water and floor creaks—into the album. The collaborative effort included contributions from Kourkounis and label head Richie Charles, who provided additional sounds for the project. Robb described the experience as a “really cool learning experience,” highlighting how it allowed her to explore creative avenues not typically associated with her solo work.

A Community-Centric Approach and Upcoming Performance

Robb remains committed to the DIY ethos, believing in the power of collaboration and experimentation. “I find so much of today’s capitalistic world to be a tiresome rigmarole,” she shared. “If you want to play guitar, just pick up a guitar and play. Learn from others, and don’t spend your time on resumes and applications!”

As a supportive figure in Philadelphia’s experimental music community, Robb frequently attends shows by fellow musicians. She recorded the new album at her workspace, Suddenly Studio, using digital equipment, but she prefers the warmth of her analog eight-track reel-to-reel machine.

Robb’s release concert is scheduled for January 31, 2024, at Solar Myth in South Philadelphia. The event will feature performances by her new ensemble, the ER Band, which includes fellow musicians Richie Charles, Dan Provenzano, and Dustin Burrows. The opening act will be the Philadelphia band Walnut Brain, and Kourkounis’ film will be screened before the concert.

Through her innovative approach to music, Robb continues to connect with audiences and fellow artists alike, solidifying her reputation as a distinctive voice in the underground scene. With the upcoming soundtrack and concert, she invites listeners to join her on this new creative journey.