Frog Rock

In theory, an early 1970s British horror involving a frog worshipping, undead biker gang wreaking havoc in shopping centres, and Beryl Reid as a witch, ought to be right up my alley. Regardless of its cult following, I've regrettably never been able to appreciate Psychomania (1973), even if it's ironically like most of its fans. The film lacks any real edginess and is a bitter disappointment.

Better known for playing the best versions of Shere Khan and Mr. Freeze, the unmistakably upper class sounding George Sanders would receive top billing, as Psychomania would be his final film appearance since he took his own life. You can almost understand why, if you’ve seen it.

John Cameron - Psychomania Front Title

Psychomania OST, 1973

John Cameron · Psychomania Front Title

 

On a more cheerful tip, I do like John Cameron's main theme from Psychomania's soundtrack. It manages to be both suitably eerie for the film and possesses the distinctive seventies British prog rock, which is seldom replicated convincingly by today's retro sounding millennial bands.

 

Cameron would also contribute to library music label KPM's Afro Rock album the very same year. Standouts include Swamp Fever and Afro Metropolis by the musician, but it's his fellow contributor, Alan Parker, who shines the most with his track Punch Bowl for me. The pair were members of C.S.S, better known as that band covering Led Zeppelin's Whole Lotta Love used as the Top of the Pops theme.

Alan Parker - Punch Bowl

Afro Rock, 1973

 

1000Sereez · "Punch Bowl" (Alan Parker/John Cameron)