Black Mass

The Black Mass was a groundbreaking horror-fantasy radio drama series that aired on KPFA (Berkeley) and KPFK (Los Angeles) from 1963 to 1967. Produced by Erik Bauersfeld, a leading American radio dramatist of the post-television era, the show quickly gained a reputation for its atmospheric adaptations of classic and contemporary horror literature.

The series stood out for its innovative approach to sound design and storytelling, bringing to life the works of renowned authors such as H.P. Lovecraft, Edgar Allan Poe, and Franz Kafka. Bauersfeld’s masterful productions were characterized by their immersive soundscapes and haunting performances, which transported listeners into the eerie worlds of supernatural horror and psychological suspense.

The Black Mass aired on an irregular schedule, adding to its mystique and cult following. The show’s ability to create vivid, unsettling imagery through sound alone made it a standout in the realm of radio drama, particularly during a time when television was becoming the dominant medium for entertainment.

The Stars

While The Black Mass did not feature a regular cast of stars in the traditional sense, it was the creative vision of Erik Bauersfeld that truly shone throughout the series. As the director and producer, Bauersfeld brought his considerable talents to bear on each episode, crafting audio experiences that were both chilling and thought-provoking.

John Whiting, KPFA’s production director, served as the sound designer for most episodes. His collaboration with Bauersfeld was crucial in creating the show’s signature atmospheric sound. Together, they were credited with “keeping radio drama alive in America in the 1960s” in a later Ph.D. dissertation.

The series also benefited from the musical contributions of several Bay Area composers, including KPFA’s Music Director Charles Shere. Shere, who later became known for his books on American composers, provided original scores that enhanced the eerie ambiance of the productions.

Key Dates

• 1963: The Black Mass debuts on KPFA in Berkeley, California.
• 1967: The final episode of the original run airs.
• While specific dates for individual episodes are not widely available due to the show’s irregular broadcast schedule, these years mark the beginning and end of the series’ original run.

Other Information

Influence: The Black Mass had a significant impact on the world of radio drama and horror entertainment. Writer-producer Thomas Lopez, known for his work with ZBS Foundation, cited Bauersfeld’s productions as a major influence on his own career. Lopez considered Bauersfeld his mentor and was particularly inspired by the show’s adaptations of H.P. Lovecraft’s works.

Literary Adaptations: The series was renowned for its diverse selection of literary adaptations. Some of the notable works brought to life through The Black Mass included:

• “The Outsider” and “The Rats in the Walls” by H.P. Lovecraft
• “The Tell-Tale Heart” and “The Imp of the Perverse” by Edgar Allan Poe
• “The Judgment” and “A Country Doctor” by Franz Kafka
• “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville
• “The Jolly Corner” by Henry James
• “The Dream of a Ridiculous Man” by Fyodor Dostoevsky

This eclectic mix of classic and contemporary literature showcased the series’ commitment to exploring the depths of psychological horror and existential dread across different literary traditions.

Production Quality: The show was notable for its high production values, especially considering the limited resources of public radio at the time. Bauersfeld and his team used innovative sound design techniques to create immersive audio experiences that could rival the visual medium of television in their ability to evoke fear and unease.

Preservation and Legacy: In the 1970s, unauthorized limited LP pressings of 1,000 copies were made of Bauersfeld’s adaptations of Lovecraft’s “The Rats in the Walls” and “The Outsider.” This unofficial release speaks to the enduring appeal of the series and the desire among fans to preserve these unique audio productions.

Cultural Context: The Black Mass aired during a time of significant cultural and social change in the United States. The show’s dark, often philosophical content resonated with audiences seeking more complex and challenging entertainment. Its home on Pacifica Radio stations, known for their alternative and sometimes controversial programming, allowed for a level of artistic freedom that was rare in mainstream media of the time.

Educational Impact: Beyond its entertainment value, The Black Mass served an educational purpose by introducing listeners to a wide range of literary works. For many, the series may have been their first exposure to authors like Lovecraft or Kafka, potentially inspiring further reading and exploration of horror and existential literature.

Technical Innovation: The series pushed the boundaries of what was possible in radio drama production. The use of stereo sound (when available), complex layering of audio effects, and innovative narrative techniques set new standards for audio storytelling. These innovations would go on to influence future generations of radio dramatists and podcast creators.

The Black Mass remains a testament to the power of audio storytelling and the enduring appeal of horror in radio format. Its legacy continues to inspire and intrigue enthusiasts of old-time radio and horror literature alike, cementing its place as a unique and influential chapter in the history of American radio drama.