On this ominous Friday the 13th, Bartees Strange, a celebrated alt-rock artist, shares his unique perspective on the 1980 horror film that shares the day's name. He expresses admiration for the mother character who seeks vengeance for her disabled son, Jason. Strange, known for touring with renowned artists like Lucy Dacus and Phoebe Bridgers, has a deep fascination with horror films. This passion inspired his upcoming third studio album, "Horror," set to release on Valentine's Day and co-produced by Jack Antonoff. The album not only pays homage to scary movies but also delves into Strange's personal life and background, reflecting on societal fears and personal struggles.

A Deep Dive into Bartees Strange's New Album and Its Inspirations

In the heart of a crisp winter, Bartees Strange, now 36, reflects on his childhood in a small Oklahoma town where he was one of the few Black residents. Growing up, he listened to stories from his parents about their lives in the South, preparing him for similar challenges. To cope with his nervousness, Strange turned to horror films as a way to train himself to handle fear. His love for these films grew after watching "The Ring" at a young age, leading him to appreciate the slow-building terror of classics like "Halloween" and modern masterpieces such as "It Follows" and "Hereditary."

Strange sees the best horror movies as those that reflect societal fears, much like great records that define an era. His contribution to the soundtrack of "I Saw the TV Glow," directed by Jane Schoenbrun, further showcases his ability to blend music with cinematic themes. The song "Big Glow" transports listeners into the minds of the movie's protagonists as they become entranced by a mysterious TV show.

While "Big Glow" is rooted in a movie's narrative, "Horror" is deeply personal. Strange's previous album, "Farm to Table," explored his origins and family, earning critical acclaim. With "Horror," he delves deeper into the underbelly of those same places and feelings, addressing the darker aspects of his life. Songs like "Sober" and "Too Much" tackle relationship turmoil and overwhelming emotions, while "Baltimore" speaks to the struggle of finding a safe place as a Black man in America. Strange connects this theme to films like Jordan Peele's "Get Out," seeing parallels between his own experiences and the characters in these movies.

The album title, "Horror," encapsulates the fears that have shaped Strange and continue to influence his journey toward self-improvement. It is a testament to the power of confronting one's deepest fears and emerging stronger on the other side.

From a reader's perspective, Bartees Strange's new album serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of facing our inner demons. By exploring both personal and societal fears through the lens of horror, Strange invites us to confront the anxieties that shape our lives. His music encourages introspection and resilience, reminding us that growth often comes from confronting the things that scare us the most.