While I think the general consensus is that the 1981 sequel pales in comparison to the original (outside of that insane Ben Tramer scene, of course), Halloween II really shines with its soundtrack. The duo of Carpenter and Alan Howarth take the original film's iconic sparse piano notes and give them an updated synthesizer reconstruction, creating a deeper, more menacing sound. And the use of The Chordettes' classic Mr. Sandman track adds the prefect unsettling kiss at the end of an exceptional horror soundtrack.
A cold, weathered hand pierces the rust-laden earth of a late autumn night. Reanimated decay becomes the evening's guide. Masked faces bask in the fiery glow of a jack-o-lantern's illumination. A lifeless finger points the direction toward the next porch-lit house. For this is the night of ghouls and goblins and tricks and treats. This is the night of Hallowe'en...