Philadelphia-based experimental guitarist Emily Robb is venturing into new territory with her upcoming soundtrack album for the science fiction short film, The Space Between Attack and Decay. Scheduled for release on January 23, 2024, the album marks Robb’s first collaboration specifically composed for a film, showcasing her innovative sound alongside the visionary work of Philadelphia filmmaker Jessica Kourkounis.
Kourkounis, who developed the film with screenwriter Richie Fravel, first approached Robb several years ago, drawn to her distinct musical style. Robb embraced the challenge of creating a soundtrack, stating that it encouraged her to explore without overthinking: “The task of creating something that served someone else’s creative vision was fun,” she said.
Exploring New Creative Horizons
Robb has established herself as a prominent figure in Philadelphia’s underground music scene ever since her debut album, How to Moonwalk, was released in 2021. Throughout her career, she has focused on solo guitar projects while also collaborating with various artists. Her reputation as a masterful guitarist and improviser is well-deserved, as her work often features monolithic drones and sustained sound cycles.
The collaboration with Kourkounis presented immediate challenges, particularly since the first scene for which she composed music had not yet been filmed. With only the script available, Robb had to envision the actors’ movements. This process led to the creation of “Dance Music,” a track that begins with wandering acoustic guitar and evolves into a feedback-laden rock framework typical of Robb’s style. Another piece, “Shiny Sister Theme,” conjures images of a desolate extraterrestrial landscape, drawing parallels to classic scores by Ennio Morricone.
Robb’s track “Hell Music” stands out for its existential themes, utilizing shimmering drones and guitar feedback to create a haunting atmosphere. Many pieces on the album also incorporate Foley sounds—environmental and textural noises—adding depth and realism to the auditory experience. Richie’s contributions include sounds such as “water balloon and creaks,” further enhancing the film’s sonic landscape.
Robb described her experience as a valuable learning opportunity, emphasizing the satisfaction of pushing her creative boundaries: “It was fun to see how it all kind of came together,” she noted. She expressed interest in pursuing more soundtrack work in the future, suggesting a desire to explore her artistic identity beyond her established solo work.
A Celebration of Collaboration
The film, The Space Between Attack and Decay, has garnered attention at various festivals, winning accolades such as the Best Experimental Film award at the Philadelphia Independent Film Festival and the Best Short Film award at the Roswell Shorts Indie Film Festival. The project features performances from actors Boris McGiver, known for his role in *House of Cards*, and is narrated by James McAvoy, famed for his work in *The Last King of Scotland* and *His Dark Materials*.
Robb’s DIY ethos is evident in her approach to music. She believes in the importance of direct engagement with creativity and collaboration. “If you want to play guitar, just pick up a guitar and play,” she advises. Her commitment to the Philadelphia music scene is unwavering; she frequently attends shows by fellow underground musicians, exemplifying her role as both performer and supporter.
Despite producing her new album using digital equipment at Suddenly Studio, her workspace in Philadelphia, Robb maintains a preference for the warmth of her analog eight-track reel-to-reel machine. This reflects her appreciation for traditional methods while also embracing modern technology.
Robb’s live performances often feature rhythmic guitar loops, which she uses to create a textured foundation for her sound. “Sometimes a guitar all by itself sounds crude and awesome, but if I’m asking people to hear me play for 30 minutes, it’s nice to have a pedal I can call a bandmate,” she explained.
As the release date approaches, Robb is set to celebrate the album with a performance at Solar Myth in South Philadelphia on January 31, 2024. The event will feature fellow musicians from the local underground scene, including Richie Charles and Dan Provenzano, who will join her as part of the newly formed ER Band. The opening act will be the band Walnut Brain, and Kourkounis’ film will screen prior to the concert, highlighting the collaborative spirit of this exciting project.
Through her innovative work on The Space Between Attack and Decay, Robb continues to push the boundaries of her craft while contributing to the vibrant Philadelphia music community.
