Heavy Halloween: The “Metal Third” of the Playlist
This week we continue our multi-episode journey into a playlist called “October Spirits” - 40 spooky tunes for the Halloween season. In this episode, we explore the 13 creepy, haunting, and heavy songs from the world of metal.
Our whiskey pairing for this week is Jim Beam Devil’s Cut bourbon. Spooky! Or is it?
The Playlist:
Halloween - Helloween
Album: Keeper of the Seven Keys, Pt. I - 1987
Why: Aptly named, this power metal classic embodies the Halloween spirit with its thematic overtones and epic melodic structures. A perfect opener for any October playlist.
Fear of the Dark - Iron Maiden
Album: Fear of the Dark - 1992
Why: The eerie guitar riff combined with Bruce Dickinson's haunting vocals evokes a chilling atmosphere, perfect for a spooky October night.
Diary of a Madman - Ozzy Osbourne
Album: Diary of a Madman (Remastered Original Recording) - 1981
Why: Ozzy's spine-chilling tale of insanity pairs well with the season of witches and ghouls. The song's title alone sets an ominous tone.
Dream Warriors - Dokken
Album: Back for the Attack - 1987
Why: Infamously tied to the "Nightmare on Elm Street" series, this track's connection to horror cinema makes it a fitting October addition.
American Witch - Rob Zombie
Album: Educated Horses - 2006
Why: Rob Zombie's signature blend of hard rock and horror imagery is on full display here. An anthem for all the witches out there.
Her Black Wings - Danzig
Album: Danzig II: Lucifuge - 1990
Why: The dark, brooding atmosphere of this song, coupled with its evocative lyrics about a malevolent entity, fits right into the spooky theme.
Black No. 1 (Little Miss Scare-All) - Type O Negative
Album: Bloody Kisses - 1993
Why: With its gothic undertones and lyrical themes about a witchy woman, it's a sultry yet haunting addition.
Cemetery Gates - Pantera
Album: Cowboys from Hell - 1990
Why: A power ballad that delves deep into themes of death and the afterlife. The eerie guitar solos add an extra layer of ghostliness.
Among the Living - Anthrax
Album: Among the Living - 1987
Why: Fast-paced and aggressive, it's a song about the living dead, making it an electrifying choice for October.
The Thing That Should Not Be - Metallica
Album: Master of Puppets - 1986
Why: Drawing inspiration from H.P. Lovecraft's eldritch horrors, this track brings otherworldly terror to the playlist.
South of Heaven - Slayer
Album: South of Heaven - 1988
Why: With its blasphemous themes and dark imagery, Slayer delivers a track that's sure to send shivers down your spine.
In My Darkest Hour - Megadeth
Album: So Far, So Good... So What! - 1988
Why: A reflection of deep despair and darkness, the emotional weight of this song aligns well with the shadowy essence of October.
Heaven and Hell - Black Sabbath
Album: Heaven and Hell - 1980
Why: An eternal battle between light and darkness encapsulated in one song. Ronnie James Dio's powerful vocals paired with Tony Iommi's iconic riffs create a contrasting atmosphere of both celestial grace and infernal doom. A perfect closer, exploring the duality that is ever-present during the Halloween season.
Listen to the playlist:
The Whiskey:
This episode's pairing is Jim Beam Devil’s Cut. It's a 90 proof bourbon that draws inspiration from the whiskey trapped in the charred oak of barrels, marketed by Jim Beam as the "Devil's Cut" (in opposition to the “Angel’s Share” which is the whiskey that evaporates due to the barrel aging process). This unique whiskey is then blended with longer-aged Beam whiskey to create a distinctive spirit. While it boasts a captivating name steeped in mystery and dark allure, at its core, it remains unmistakably a Jim Beam product. Offering hints of vanilla, caramel, and a rye spice finish, with an added oaky depth from its unique barrel extraction process, it provides an oaky flavor that's both familiar and slightly enigmatic. Priced at under $25, it's an accessible, not-too-challenging bourbon with a fun backstory, making it a fitting companion to the haunting vibes of our October Spirits playlist.