H. P. Lovecraft is one of the big names in classic horror literature, best known as the creator of the Cthulhu mythos, but also a prolific writer of stories not always that closely attached to that universe. Pickman’s Model is among those stories with what may be described as a more of a loose connection to Lovecraft’s overarching mythos. This audio version of the novel was recorded by Andrew Leman (storyteller) and Theologian (music), and was released through US label Cadabra Records as a limited edition vinyl EP.

Leman’s take on telling the story is one that does feature it’s fair share of dramatics. The pace is quick, and his voice generally tends to unfold the tale with a distinct overtone of fear. Like a man frightened almost out of his wits telling the tale to someone, with clear dramatic effects used to convey a keen sense of being nervous and spooked. For the quotes from the tale’s main figure Pickman the voice is treated with an effects that creates a good sense of distance, giving an automatic association to an inner voice given life, clearly separating that part of the story from what is conveyed from the main storyteller.

As a spoken voice production alone this recording would have been a bit too hurried and filled with pace, but a good choice has been made in allowing US electronic musician Theologian to produce sonic backdrops. The mystic, cold and haunting noises he creates, frequently with a clear and distinct otherworldly and menacing vibe to them, fits the fear-filled, nervous voice of the storyteller to perfection. As a listener you are transported to another time and place much easier due to this, and in a manner unthinkable without this ongoing backdrop of sounds, effects and ominous supportive music.

The story is well known and well regarded, and while perhaps told in a voice a bit too nervous and filled with fear, leaving less space for the shock value of the revelations, the end result is still an unnerving and unsettling one, the combination of voice and music here in sum producing a most excellent end result. If you love Lovecraft and his universe, or merely is a person fond of vintage horror stories, this is a production well worth your time.

My rating: 100/100