Words by Jenna DePasquale
The eighth installment in The Conjuring universe is out in theaters this week. Directed by Michael Chaves, The Conjuring 3: The Devil Made Me Do It tells the true story of the 1981 trial of Arne Cheyenne Johnson -- the first time demonic possession was used as a defense for comitting murder in the United States judicial system. The film features a recurring portrayal of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorrain Warren, who use their expertise to tend to another family entrenched in a supernatural crisis.
Given the overlapping fanbase of horror and heavy music, it was only natural for composer Joseph Bishara to enlist the help of Lingua Ignota for the film’s soundtrack. The woman behind the solo endeavor is classically trained multi-instrumentalist Kristin Hayter.
A purveyor of operatic vocals and towering organs, Hayter first appeared on the radar of outsider art through her 2017 album LET THE EVIL OF HIS OWN LIPS COVER HIM, with opening track “DISEASE OF MEN” featuring samples of an interview with convicted murderer Eileen Vernos.
Hayer’s most recent album Caligula (2019) earned top placements on album of the year lists throughout the metal news circuit. While not necessarily a metal album per se, Caligula represented a brazen future for all that is heavy.
Hayter shared that she made several vocal contributions to the soundtrack for The Conjuring 3, including haunting chants on the song “Soaring Curses.” “It’s finally here!” she recently announced on Twitter. “ honored to have my voice on the soundtrack for The Conjuring 3: The Devil Made Me Do It composed by the immensely talented Joseph Bishara.”
It’s finally here! Honored to have my voice on the soundtrack for The Conjuring 3: The Devil Made Me Do It composed by the immensely talented Joseph Bishara. Lots of extended vox and chanting, it was the most fun. Film is out June 4. https://t.co/vqr2OlEO1e
— LINGUA “SAD CHRISTIAN MOM” IGNOTA (@LINGUA_IGNOTA_) May 28, 2021
For those who have been following the journey of Lingua Ignota, Hayter’s involvement with the project is a logical step. In a 2017 interview with Vice, Hayter compared her live performances to an “exorcism,” demonstrating her craftsmanship of foreboding atmosphere. Bishara, who originally got his start composing for the 1998 film Joseph’s Gift, has made his mark on the VHS, Insidious, and The Conjuring franchises. He will also be scoring the upcoming James Wan horror flick Malignant, which is scheduled to hit theaters this September.
The soundtrack is available in its entirety on YouTube via WaterTower Music. In addition to its theatrical release, the film is available through HBO Max.
