Yellowjackets Season 2 Enriches Narrative with Nostalgic Soundtrack

Showtime’s acclaimed thriller “Yellowjackets” is captivating audiences not only through its suspenseful storytelling but also with its carefully curated soundtrack this season. Featuring iconic tracks from the 1990s, the show skillfully intertwines music with its haunting narrative, enhancing the emotional depth and resonance of each scene.

Why It Matters

The integration of music in “Yellowjackets” plays a crucial role in amplifying the emotional experiences of its characters. By connecting past and present musical nostalgia, the series creates a powerful atmosphere, enabling viewers to engage more deeply with the psychological realities faced by the characters. This approach not only reinforces the show’s themes but also enriches the viewing experience in a significant way.

Key Developments

• Alanis Morissette has released a version of the show’s theme song, “No Return,” as a single this season.
• Warren Kole’s character, Jeff, prominently featured Papa Roach’s “Last Resort” during a pivotal moment in Season 2’s premiere.
• The show’s music supervisor, Nora Felder, emphasized the importance of aligning music with the narrative throughout production.
• Radiohead’s song “Climbing Up The Walls” was used movingly during a key scene to highlight the characters’ inner turmoil.
• The Season 2 trailer showcased a haunting cover of No Doubt’s “Just A Girl” by Florence + The Machine.

Full Report

Music as a Narrative Tool

“Yellowjackets,” which tells the story of a group of teen soccer players stranded in the Canadian wilderness, masterfully utilizes music from the 90s to evoke nostalgia and enhance its storytelling. This season, viewers have already seen notable contributions, including Alanis Morissette’s rendition of the theme song “No Return.” The release of this single has intrigued fans and critics alike, further establishing the series’ musical identity.

Deliberate Music Choices

In a memorable scene from the season’s premiere, Warren Kole’s character, Jeff, finds himself in an intense emotional moment while driving in his car. The choice of Papa Roach’s “Last Resort” during this scene served to reflect his internal anxiety, as noted by Felder, the show’s music supervisor. She explained that this song was an intentional choice to manifest Jeff’s feelings in a physical and auditory form.

Another highlight came from the placement of Tori Amos’s “Cornflake Girl” during a crucial moment, skillfully echoing the characters’ states of mind. Felder commented on how she aims to stay true to the story, noting, “I felt that Amos’s lyrics could serve as a befitting launchpad…while also reflecting the past and present moods of the characters.”

Creative Collaboration

Felder highlighted the collaborative nature of her work, often dealing with evolving technical needs and performance changes during production. She emphasized the importance of allowing the visuals to guide the music selection, stating, “I always say, ‘Let the picture tell you what it needs.’” This approach has led to remarkable scenes, such as the cannibalistic ‘last supper’ sequence, accompanied by Radiohead’s “Climbing Up The Walls,” which resonated with the emotions of horror and confusion experienced by the characters.

Artist Engagement

In her collaboration with the show, Morissette expressed her admiration for “Yellowjackets,” noting the parallels between her music and the show’s intense narrative. She celebrated the series for its dynamic portrayal of female characters, underscoring the complexity and empowerment present throughout the storyline. Florence Welch of Florence + The Machine also shared her excitement about reinterpreting No Doubt’s beloved hit, stating her desire to infuse it with a distinctively unsettling tone to complement the show’s ambiance.

Context & Previous Events

The latest season of “Yellowjackets” has continued to explore the psychological landscapes of its characters, oscillating between their teenage experiences and adult lives. The show has consistently employed a soundtrack that reflects the cultural nostalgia of the 1990s, making it a defining feature of its narrative strategy. The involvement of widely recognized artists like Alanis Morissette and Florence + The Machine highlights the series’ commitment to what Felder describes as an evolution in how music can enhance storytelling.