Yellowjackets Season 2: How Music Fuels the Show’s Haunting Vibe

Showtime’s breakout hit, “Yellowjackets,” isn’t just serving up a deliciously dark story of survival; it’s delivering a potent dose of ‘90s nostalgia, one perfectly placed track at a time. The series, which follows a high school soccer team stranded in the Canadian wilderness after a plane crash in 1996 and their present-day counterparts grappling with the aftermath, has become as known for its soundtrack as We see for its shocking plot twists. And as the current season unfolds, the music continues to be a crucial element, enhancing the show’s unsettling atmosphere and emotional resonance.

The show’s commitment to the era’s music isn’t accidental. Music supervisor Nora Felder explained to CNN that the selection of Papa Roach’s “Last Resort” for a pivotal scene in the second episode was, in fact, scripted. The song, playing as Warren Kole’s character Jeff has a moment of release after a tense encounter with his wife Shauna (Melanie Lynskey), “served as a perfect physical outlet for Warren whose anxious feelings were riding high while sitting alone in his garage.” This illustrates the intentionality behind the musical choices, which aren’t simply background noise but active participants in the storytelling.

A Sonic Time Capsule

“Yellowjackets” expertly weaves a tapestry of late ‘90s alternative, grunge, and pop, featuring artists like Tori Amos, Smashing Pumpkins, Massive Attack, and Veruca Salt. This isn’t just about evoking a specific time period; it’s about tapping into the emotional landscape of adolescence and the raw energy of the music that defined a generation. The show’s creators clearly understand the power of music to transport viewers and amplify the emotional impact of key scenes. As Looper notes, the series has received rave reviews, even being called one of the best ensembles of the season.

The latest musical addition to the “Yellowjackets” universe is a new version of the show’s theme song, “No Return,” performed by Alanis Morissette. Released as a single, Morissette’s capture on the track adds another layer of depth to the series’ sonic identity. Morissette herself expressed feeling inspired by the show’s themes, stating that she sees parallels between “Yellowjackets” and her own songwriting approach, praising the show’s willingness to explore intensity and empower women. CNN reported on Morissette’s comments, highlighting her appreciation for the show’s complex portrayal of female characters.

Matching Music to Mood

Felder’s process isn’t about simply selecting popular songs from the ‘90s; it’s about finding the perfect musical accompaniment to enhance the narrative. She describes re-immersing herself in the show’s era and spirit to build playlists, always prioritizing what the story needs musically. A prime example is the use of Tori Amos’s “Cornflake Girl” in a recent episode, timed to coincide with a disturbing moment involving teen Shauna (Sophie Nélisse). Felder noted that the song’s lyrics, including the line “Things are getting kind of gross,” felt like a fitting launchpad for the episode’s ending, reflecting both Shauna’s state of mind and the overall mood of the series.

Another standout moment came with last week’s “last supper” scene, underscored by Radiohead’s “Climbing By The Walls.” Felder explained that the song’s lyrics seemed to capture the “unspeakable monsters that can live in one’s head,” mirroring the characters’ collective hallucinations as they grapple with unthinkable acts. This careful selection demonstrates how music is used to subtly amplify the psychological horror at the heart of “Yellowjackets.”

The Collaborative Process

While Felder has creative freedom in many instances, the process is ultimately collaborative. She emphasizes that the team is always striving for the best possible song selection, and the final choice often evolves during post-production based on the actors’ performances and the overall flow of the scene. As Felder puts it, “Everyone on the team always wants the best song-select possible to enhance the story.”

This dedication to musical detail extends to the show’s promotional materials as well. The Season 2 trailer itself features Florence + The Machine’s haunting rendition of No Doubt’s “Just A Girl,” a choice that Florence Welch described as a “dream job,” allowing her to add “horror elements” to an iconic song. Welch shared her enthusiasm with CNN, highlighting the personal connection she felt to the song and the era it represents.

What’s Next for the Soundtrack?

With each episode, “Yellowjackets” continues to prove that its soundtrack is more than just a nostalgic flourish; it’s an integral part of the show’s identity. As the season progresses, viewers can expect more carefully curated musical moments that will undoubtedly deepen the show’s unsettling atmosphere and emotional impact. Felder’s approach – letting the picture guide the music – suggests that the soundtrack will continue to evolve organically, responding to the twists and turns of the narrative. The show’s success demonstrates a growing appreciation for the power of music in television, and “Yellowjackets” is setting a high bar for sonic storytelling.

The show’s continued exploration of the ‘90s musical landscape promises to be a compelling element for fans, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and psychological suspense. You can catch new episodes of “Yellowjackets” on Showtime and Paramount+ with Showtime. Wikipedia provides a comprehensive overview of the series, including its cast, crew, and production details.