Over the Garden Wall (soundtrack)
The Over the Garden Wall soundtrack comprises the musical scores and songs featured in the Cartoon Network animated miniseries Over the Garden Wall (2014). The music plays a vital role in establishing the show's whimsical yet melancholic atmosphere, drawing heavily from early 20th-century American folk music, vaudeville, and European classical traditions.
The soundtrack is largely the work of The Blasting Company, a musical duo consisting of Brendon Small and series creator Patrick McHale. They collaborated to compose original songs and score the series, often employing a variety of instruments including banjos, guitars, pianos, accordions, and orchestral strings. Their influences range from traditional Appalachian folk to the music of composers like Johannes Brahms and Franz Schubert, creating a unique sonic landscape that reflects the series' time-bending aesthetic.
Notable songs from the soundtrack include "Into the Unknown," the series' opening theme which sets the tone for the journey ahead; "Come Wayward Souls," a haunting ballad performed by Greg's frog; and various incidental pieces that underscore the emotional beats of each episode. Music is often diegetic, meaning it originates from within the world of the story, such as the schoolhouse performance in "Schooltown Follies" or the tavern songs in "Old Wounds."
The soundtrack was initially released digitally and later as a physical release, including vinyl editions, demonstrating the popularity and appreciation for the musical artistry within Over the Garden Wall. Its distinctive sound has been praised by critics and fans alike, contributing significantly to the series' overall appeal and enduring cult following.