The Samhain Soiree

Ah, it's Halloween time again at last! The air is crisp, and the night is young- just perfect for a proper Samhain Soiree.

I've been to many Halloween parties through the years, each with a slightly different but similar theme. Perhaps it's just nostalgia, but I remember the Halloween of my youth fondly. My bare feet falling rhythmically against the forest floor, embers of a bonfire scurrying over my skin. The sounds of the old horns and drums filling the woods with life as we welcomed the Dead.

I'm showing my age, aren't I?

Either way, as time has evolved, so has the welcoming of one season to another. I'm just pleased to welcome the season again and not have to repress ourselves as we did in the Dark Ages.

Metaphorically, of course.

Many things have changed, of course. Some have come back into popularity, for example, the pumpkin spice revival and resurgence of jack-o-lanterns. These things remind me of my youth—when my hair was wild, and my skin was warm with energy.

One thing that has been by far the most difficult to find through the ages? Good music.

Now, I already know youre going to say that 'every generation says that, Daianira' or 'it's because I don't understand the times'.

But I'm on your side. I can't listen to another rendition of the 'Monster Mash' and pretend it's the best Halloween song in existence for another hundred years.

Not that it's been a hundred years or anything.

I can't, and you shouldn't. It's akin to settling for bagged blood when a fresh tap stands right in front of you.

For decoration, obviously.

Don't settle for childish music that mocks this wondrous night of celebration. Say NO to the same boring songs on repeat while eating Mummy Meatballs and aptly named cocktails like Frankenlime's Revenge.

I have the remedy for your musical malady, my friend.

I conjured up a fantastic new playlist to share with all of you. Let us finally pull this perpetual party planning thorn from our sides, once and for all. So come on in, join the party! Welcome to the Samhain Soiree. Let's get things started.

I. Halloween- Misfits

'Tis the reason for the season, after all! And nothing gets the blood flowing and pumping quite like American Horror-punk-rock, right? I do love it when people get their allotted cardiovascular workout.

II. Vampire- Mai Lan

A tune that can get our bloodless hearts pumping. With that catchy beat and killer lyrics—who can stop the groove? Plus, I finally found my anthem in this song, thank the gods. What? You act like my…way of life is a big surprise or something.

III. She Wolf- Shakira

Now, I'm no She-Wolf, but I have to say, this is an incredible song to let loose to…even if it is about lycanthropy. All the She-Wolves will be happy you've thought of them. Just, uh…watch out when they let their inner animal out.

IV. Turn Off The Light (ft. Elvira Mistress of the Dark) - Kim Petras

A catchy rave-like melody that all monsters can get down and dance to! Only in the darkness will you find your true self, after all.

V. Monster (ft.Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj & Bon Iver) - Kanye West

This song is sure to get everyone moving. Look, even the ghouls are getting into it! Any music that involves monsters, cryptids, and Nicki Minaj is good music for the undead.

VI. Heads Will Roll- Yeah, Yeah Yeahs

This is a perfect song for Halloween, with all the heads rolling and dancing 'till you're dead talk. Much better than your average Transylvania twist, huh?

VII. Dracula’s Wedding (ft. Kelis)- Outkast

Even immortal love can have moments of uncertainty, and this song makes sure the couples who are '2gether4eva', mated under a full moon, or just met a succubus… have a song to call their own. Shall we dance?

VIII. The Creature From The Black Leather Lagoon- The Cramps

Some old-school psychobilly punk to liven up this party is just what the Doctor ordered. Any time leather and sea creatures are involved, you know it's going to be a good time. Plus, whenever The Creature does come to my parties, he loves when I play The Cramps. Big fan, apparently.

IX. Halloween (She's So Mean)(ft. The Ghastly Ones) - Rob Zombie

Rob never disappoints with his music and lyrical prowess. Mentioning everything from werewolves to zombies, he truly is a man of the people. He's always a VIP at my parties, and the guests just love him. Look at him in his cowboy hat of…skin. Nevermind.

X. The Witch Queen Of New Orleans- Redbone

Oldie, but goodie. The originals still have a place on any playlist, and for a good reason. There are still many witches that attend my gala's, and they love to hear songs about, well, themselves. And who can blame them? They drove many men mad just with a glance.

XI. Me and the Devil- Gil Scott- Heron

This rendition of this song is my personal favorite. It embodies the pact we've all made with our friend. Whether for immortality, power, or strength—we're all in this together.

XII. I Put A Spell On You- Screamin' Jay Hawkins

Let's close this night out with a bang! Screamin' Jay Hawkins' rendition is powerful, fierce, and wildly theatrical. It also signals the closing to the night's dancing and debauchery.

As the sun creeps above the horizon, I hope you don't mind that we've sealed the deal with that final song. I must go now, but rest assured, you will see me soon. Your curiosity has killed the cat, so to speak.

A trickle of blood, a piece of hair.

A nibble on the neck, a scratch here and there.

We've put a spell on you…

I'm sorry, I thought you knew.

You accepted the risk; dancing with the devil has a steep consequence.