It was a dark and stormy night...somewhere...I think. The upload was complete. The sales channels were ready to be open. HP Lovecraft Radio Hour, Vol. I made its debut.
What is an HP Lovecraft, and why does he/it need a Radio Hour? It all started back in 1916, when a young author by the name of Howard Philips Lovecraft had his short story, "The Alchemist" published. Even though it was his first short story to receive publication, he became an immediate overnight success. Critics compared his work to Poe and Verne, and hailed Lovecraft as the next great American horror and science fiction author. He enjoyed immense commercial success, and is given ample credit as the inspiration behind several modern fiction authors.
What is an HP Lovecraft, and why does he/it need a Radio Hour? It all started back in 1916, when a young author by the name of Howard Philips Lovecraft had his short story, "The Alchemist" published. Even though it was his first short story to receive publication, he became an immediate overnight success. Critics compared his work to Poe and Verne, and hailed Lovecraft as the next great American horror and science fiction author. He enjoyed immense commercial success, and is given ample credit as the inspiration behind several modern fiction authors.
Original Cover artwork for the CD album booklet outside pages by David Gray. Graphic design and additional artwork and layout by Ryan Haggerty.
Okay, so most of the fame and glory stuff is itself fiction. Lovecraft did go on to write several stories, poems, and letters. He is also cited as an inspiration by many modern authors, such as Stephen King and Neil Gaiman. His work, despite publication, languished in obscurity throughout Lovecraft's life. He passed away in 1937. The copyright on many (some would argue all) of his works lapsed. This brings us to that fateful night in 2008 when we were finally able to bring life back to some of his better known short stories in audio form.
Rather than try to describe the album with my current perspective, I will paste here the promotional copy originally uploaded with it:
Rather than try to describe the album with my current perspective, I will paste here the promotional copy originally uploaded with it:
This terrifying CD compilation gathers together the three tales Picture in the House, Dagon and Beyond the Wall of Sleep from Lovecraft's early works, and couples them with original interludes. Narration is joined by sound effects and musical composition to elevate the stories beyond books on CD. A visceral audio experience transports you to a realm where humanity is neither present nor accounted for.
Also included for your viewing pleasure is original CD artwork inspired by Lovecraft's tales. You may want to avoid viewing or listening to this album if you are alone and despairing. Such an environment could lead to wild hallucinations or worse yet, a warped perception on reality. We cannot be held responsible for any such...happenings.
In essence we strongly urge you to listen to this collection with the utmost caution and awareness for the path to madness you will undoubtedly embark upon. Also be sure to share this experience with all your friends and family, such mental anguish should not be hoarded by any one mind.
On a side note some Shuggoths have broken loose and our wranglers are working tirelessly to restrain them. Should you, your home or loved ones be eviscerated into the ether, consider it an honor. Not everyone gets to become the foodstuff of an ageless being's wandering pet. Also you probably had nothing going on this weekend anyways.
This album contains instances of graphic themes and scenes of audio violence and may not be suitable for younger listeners.
Also included for your viewing pleasure is original CD artwork inspired by Lovecraft's tales. You may want to avoid viewing or listening to this album if you are alone and despairing. Such an environment could lead to wild hallucinations or worse yet, a warped perception on reality. We cannot be held responsible for any such...happenings.
In essence we strongly urge you to listen to this collection with the utmost caution and awareness for the path to madness you will undoubtedly embark upon. Also be sure to share this experience with all your friends and family, such mental anguish should not be hoarded by any one mind.
On a side note some Shuggoths have broken loose and our wranglers are working tirelessly to restrain them. Should you, your home or loved ones be eviscerated into the ether, consider it an honor. Not everyone gets to become the foodstuff of an ageless being's wandering pet. Also you probably had nothing going on this weekend anyways.
This album contains instances of graphic themes and scenes of audio violence and may not be suitable for younger listeners.
Back of case insert artwork by David Gray. Graphic design and additional artwork and layout by Ryan Haggerty. Lower right corner left blank for UPC.
That pretty much covers it. So, where are we now? Here for your listening pleasure is the "Intro" track that opens the album.
You may come purchase your very own shrink-wrapped copy of the CD, complete with cover art, at the Fall Into Autumn Festival happening in downtown DuBois, PA on Saturday, August 29 from 11AM - 4PM.
You may also purchase the digital album on iTunes, Amazon, and elsewhere. The CD is available on our E-store as well. Enjoy the madness you will undoubtedly bring into your life by listening to this album, and share some Lovecraft with someone in your life.
You may also purchase the digital album on iTunes, Amazon, and elsewhere. The CD is available on our E-store as well. Enjoy the madness you will undoubtedly bring into your life by listening to this album, and share some Lovecraft with someone in your life.
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