With midterm season in the books and Halloweekend 2015 just around the corner, it’s high time to revamp your playlists with some new, seasonal jams! No Monster Mash or Thriller here, though. Read on for 13 atmospheric and spooky songs, some classic and some contemporary, all with a little bit of a darker edge—and a lot of potential to be your new Halloween anthem.
1. “Angel of Small Death and the Codeine Scene” by Hozier
If this ultra-talented Irishman hasn’t found his way onto your autumn playlists (and into your heart) yet, just watch this SNL performance. This track hasn’t gotten the same attention as Take Me to Church, but it has the same radio-ready rhythm and soul—plus a darker vibe perfect for fall evenings in this second half of October.
2. “Ghosts” by The Presets
In between the title, lyrics, and black-and-white music video, this song has a high spook factor. It’s easy on the ears, though, and you’ll be humming right along by the end, straight through to Halloween.
3. “The Difference Between Us” by The Dead Weather
Less easy on the ears than Ghosts, this track features a female lead singer and distortion that will make you want to buy a Ouija board and/or black lipstick. Side effects aside, with a band name like The Dead Weather, this song should be required autumn listening.
4. “Zero Zero” by Gerard Way
Yes, that Gerard Way, former lead singer of the one and only My Chemical Romance. (R.I.P.) Since MCR, Gerard has released solo material that spans the spectrum from lighthearted to darker than a silent graveyard; this song lies on the heavier, more industrial side, but is also surprisingly fun.
5. “Valley of the Dolls” by Marina and the Diamonds
This track is a major departure from the heaviness of the first four songs. Definitely lighter, definitely sadder, Marina’s voice lends a melancholy edge to any fall activity. Think of it this way: If a single leaf falling off a tree somehow turned into an electronic/indie/pop song, this would be it.
6. “Let It Happen” by Tame Impala
This song is low on spook, high on the goosebump factor. The longest song on this list, it has enough time and patience to build and draw back and build again, and is surprisingly versatile, fitting equally well on weekday or weekend playlists.
7. “Retrograde” by James Blake
Mm, yes. One time, I listened to this song while sitting in my windowsill and watching the sunset, and that should tell you all you need to know. If that endorsement isn’t enough, try to imagine a song that’s hard to pin down, easy to listen to on repeat, and intensely chill.
8. “Beat the Devil’s Tattoo” by Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
We’re back to the heaviness of the first part of this list with BRMC. This jam could pass for a Black Keys B-side, but its title—and cred in a Chevy commercial, just saying—gives it more autumn playlist cred. Perfect for scenic drives, not recommended for pumpkin carving.
9. “Dreams” by Gabrielle Aplin and Bastille
Back to the easier listening, this Fleetwood Mac cover is hazy and even more haunting than the original; I would be 0% surprised to hear it as the background music to the trailer of a new psychological thriller/drama. Spook aside, the contrast between Gabrielle and Dan’s voices is gorgeous.
10. “Believe” by The Bravery
A staple on alternative radio stations, this song features a killer bass line, dark lyrics, and a super sing-able chorus. Toss it onto a fall playlist, but don’t be surprised if you’re listening to it through winter break!
11. “Bark at the Moon” by Ozzy Osbourne
Not surprisingly, Ozzy—self-proclaimed Prince of Darkness, probably better known to collegiettes for his family’s reality TV show a few years back—doesn’t get a lot of love on Her Campus. This song is undeniably perfect for this time of year, though. Even if you’re not a big metal fan, this song just might win you over to the dark side.
12. “Demon Dance” by Surfer Blood
Two words: instant favorite.
13. “Disturbia” by Rihanna
@badgirlriri nailed the spirit of the season with her 2008 (in my opinion) classic. The music video features some creepy visuals, but the song is too good to care.
Happy listening and Happy (almost) Halloween!