Alfred (Interlude)

Eminem's 'Alfred (Interlude)' serves as a haunting prelude to his album 'Music to Be Murdered By.' The interlude features a spoken word introduction by the legendary filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock, known for his mastery of suspense and psychological thrillers. Hitchcock's voice sets a dark and eerie tone, immediately immersing the listener in a world of macabre and unsettling themes. The choice of Hitchcock is significant, as it aligns with the album's overarching theme of horror and murder, drawing a parallel between Hitchcock's cinematic style and Eminem's lyrical content.

The interlude begins with Hitchcock's formal greeting, 'How do you do? Ladies and gentlemen,' which is both polite and ominous. He then introduces the album as 'Music to Be Murdered By,' a title that suggests the music will explore themes of violence and death. Hitchcock describes the album as 'mood music in a jugular vein,' a clever play on words that implies the music will be intense and visceral, targeting the listener's most vulnerable emotions. This phrase also hints at the album's potential to shock and disturb, much like Hitchcock's films.

Hitchcock's final words, 'So why don't you relax? Lean back and enjoy yourself until the coroner comes,' are a chilling invitation to the listener. The juxtaposition of relaxation and impending death creates a sense of unease, setting the stage for the dark and provocative content that follows. Eminem's use of Hitchcock's voice not only pays homage to the filmmaker but also establishes a thematic continuity that runs throughout the album. This interlude effectively prepares the listener for a journey into the darker recesses of human nature, as explored through Eminem's sharp and unflinching lyrics.