Wave Theory Records is to release a limited edition vinyl of a single written for Stanley Kubrick’s masterwork, 2001: A Space Odyssey.

The song, subtitled “A Garden of Personal Mirrors”, was written in 1968 by the film’s marketing strategist Mike Kaplan. Kubrick proposed it immediately following an unsuccessful pitch by MGM Records, who wanted to release a single to tie in with the film, and amid reports the Beatles were also writing a song. Presented by Wave Theory as a historical release, 2001: A Garden of Personal Mirrors adds a new chapter to the film’s mythology. This limited edition 7” vinyl will be available for the first time ever on 26th November 2021

2001 is infamous in the annals of film music history for the way that Kubrick abandoned Alex North’s original score in favour of classical and popular pieces that have become synonymous with the movie. Following a digital release last year that caught the imagination of the film’s fans, Wave Theory is now releasing a limited edition vinyl that will give the opportunity for soundtrack aficionados to own a piece of movie history.

Mike Kaplan explains, “The Single’s intent was to capture the different responses 2001 was generating from audiences and the media, the many levels of interpretation and appreciation, from its hypnotic visuals to its metaphysical illuminations. We also wanted to instil curiosity among audiences who had not yet seen what was becoming a cultural phenomenon.”

Co-founder of Wave Theory Records Dan Jones said, “Attempting to write any music for Kubrick would be a daunting task, as Alex North — and now we discover Mike Kaplan — were both to discover. Both of them are examples of the complex creative interactions that Kubrick’s films distilled.”

‘2001: A Garden of Personal Mirrors: a lost song for 2001: A Space Odyssey released 52 years late. Hear it via Wave Theory Records: We think that someone should compose a song in this manner for every Kubrick film.’ things magazine

‘Wow…A SONG FOR 2001 I keep listening to it Just FASCINATING. There is nothing I don’t love about this. How truly odd, bold and arty it is. “Reach Out and Soar,” indeed!’ Stephen Rebello, writer of Alfred Hitchcock and the Making of Psycho

‘I gave the song what I believe is its first airplay on my Scala Radio Show. Audience reaction was utterly polarised, but I have the suspicion it will become a cult favourite. It is very ear worm-y.’ Mark Kermode, Film Critic, The Observer

‘It not only captures the intellectual and questing nature of the film, but is a wonderful example of late ’60s avant garde songwriting, thereby matching in music what Stanley was accomplishing on screen.’ Michael Singer, author of Film Directors: a Complete Guide