Every summer, a breakthrough film comes along that completely disrupts the genre space, and this year, that honor belongs to Obsession. After making major waves during its premiere in the Midnight Madness program at the Toronto International Film Festival, the film has captivated audiences with its dark, cautionary tale. It follows a hopeless romantic who gets exactly what he asked for, only to realize his deepest desires carry a sinister price.
While the film itself is a massive achievement, a huge part of its success lies in its incredible, atmospheric music. Thankfully, Waxwork Records, in partnership with Back Lot Music, has officially released the Obsession Original Motion Picture Soundtrack by Rock Burwell. Physical collectors and audiophiles can now pick up the score on vinyl, CD, and cassette.
This project marks Zach "Rock" Burwell’s official debut as a feature film composer, though he is far from a newcomer to the music scene. Burwell is already a platinum-selling producer and singer-songwriter known for his innovative sound across multiple genres.
To bring the sonic landscape of Obsession to life, Burwell worked hand-in-hand with director Curry Barker. The two originally met through a mutual music project in Los Angeles, and that creative chemistry translates perfectly onto the screen. The score is a brilliant mix of smart synth work and heavy, ambient clouds that completely wrap around the viewer.
Speaking on his approach to the film's unique sound, Burwell shared:
"A big focus while composing Obsession was the idea of exploring the uncanny valley, finding the space where emotions get warped into something disorienting, where you’re no longer sure what’s real. Curry and I spent a lot of time together crafting the balance between feelings like warmth and dread, nostalgia and estrangement, even the expansiveness of how love feels versus something like claustrophobia. Part of what made it all so exciting was the willingness to take risks, using hard cuts and loudness in ways that feel almost confrontational. Discomfort was always the goal."
That goal was absolutely achieved. The soundtrack is brilliant because it actively plays with the listener's head, shifting from beautiful, melodic moments to abrasive, confrontational movements. Tracks like "One Wish Willow," "Love is in the Air," and "Into Darkness" perfectly chart the film's descent from romantic fantasy into an absolute nightmare.
Whether you are looking to spin the vinyl on a dark night or stream it on your morning commute, this is a score that demands your attention. It is a stunning debut from Burwell and a testament to the curation at Waxwork Records.
The Obsession soundtrack is available now. Check out the full 26-track listing below and head over to Waxwork Records to grab your copy.
Tracklisting:
Obsession
Sandy
Nikki
One Wish Willow
Make a Wish
R U OK
Can You Sleep With Me?
Research
Cat's Out of the Bag
Love is in the Air, Pt. 1
Date Night
Go Back to Sleep
If You're Having Trouble with the Door
What's the Verdict?
Hansel
Into Darkness
I Can't Be Nikki
You Wished for This
The Letter
One Wish Willow (Revisited)
You Only Get One
Billionaire
Why Don't You Love Me?
Mirror Shot
Bear
Love is in the Air, Pt. 2
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