The current talk of the Spider-Man musical and its production woes, many fans may be asking themselves why anyone would want to helm a music-themed project based on the superhero. As it happens, the U2-scored musical is hardly the first such attempt.
The Spider-Man Rockomic, ‘From Beyond the Grave!’ was unleashed on merry Marvelites by Buddha Records. Starring the wise-cracking hard luck hero, the adventure also included several other characters such as Dr. Strange, the Kingpin and many other super villains . The record was wrapped in a wonderfully illustrated gatefold sleeve done up in art by the great John Romita Sr.
While the Vulture sounds hauntingly similar to the same voice actor from the Power Records Riddler adventures, the 1972 musical adventure features René Auberjonois (Benson, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine) as the voice of the famous web-spinner.
(many more details at the astounding Dial B for Blog)
Amazing Spider-Man Beyond the Grave
The Rock ‘N’ Roll adventure is mainly in the same vein as the aforementioned Power Records style, complete with a read-along book… except for one difference. The Spider-Man theme by Ron “Sugar Sugar” Dante and the Web-Spinners.
In 1975, a second musical adventure was released, albeit a more ambitious rock opera. This really has to be heard to be believed. The album is a retelling of Peter Parker’s origins and neurotic woes all captured in musical format.
There is much more here at ComicsAlliance where the reviewer provides an in-depth analysis of this oddity. The aria by Doctor Octopus where he rages about the Silver Surfer is one of the funniest things I have ever heard.
Rock Reflections of a Super-Hero – Doctor Octopus pt 1 and 2
So next time you hear someone say that a Spider-Man musical is absurd, think back on these two examples and tell that someone the true meaning of absurdity.
Please also visit Supervator for some excellent Marvelmania finds.
