...and THE MUSIC!
John Williams created a score that is so recognizable, it's iconic. Yet, who would have thought that a sound akin to classical music would accompany science fiction so well? Amazing. And who thought of asking Mr. Williams to do the job? That person has imagination.
I still remember reading "Dune" by Frank Herbert for the first time. It was 1979 and I was eleven, in love with science fiction/fantasy novels. After burning through every Pern dragon book at the library, I snagged "Dune" in an attempt for a sweeping novel for entertainment.
At the time, I'd acquired The Alan Parson's Project's "Eye in the Sky" and listened to it obsessively. (I still have that cassette tape by the way. Sad, eh?). Every time I read "Dune" now, I still hear "Old and Wise" as the accompanying soundtrack.
As a writer, I've sought for inspiration for my science fiction. I have it a little easier since I also write erotic romance with my science fiction, so I can often get away with music that covers the "erotic" mood. It hasn't been easy. For the Command series, I came across the band "Stream Of Passion" and I even made book trailers with several of their songs. (They were so generous and granted me permission to use them.) Much of the music from this band became the soundtrack that inspired me in the series.
For "Marked For Pleasure", I went in search of something to give me that "sci fi" feel. It wasn't easy. At all. Then, I came across Arjen Lucassen (who is the producer for "Stream of Passion" and has his own solo career) who came out with "Space Metal" in 2002. He set the mood for me, along with "Stream of Passion" and "Collide"
So, what music puts you in the mood for science fiction romance? Ever had some odd music become connected to a science fiction? (The weirdest one for me was when my character, Princess Sera Placido, insisted that her soundtrack included Britney Spears. It was quite annoying, even though Britney has videos like this to ease the pain.)
