I have professed my love of horror and sci-fi-based music in these review pages many times over the years, but it’s something that I’m very particular about. In a lot of cases, while I may be a fan of the subject matter, the music can leave a lot to be desired. In my experience, the best bands doing this have a melodic sensibility that sells the schtick. Hex Dispensers, Groovie Ghoulies, and (early) Misfits come immediately to mind… and now I can add Dayton, Ohio’s Houseghost to that list. This band is so catchy and fun. I put them up there close to the mighty Hex Dispensers, which if you know me, you know is the highest praise. Another telltale sign that your horror themed band is doing it right is if the record gets played all year long, and not just relegated to getting hauled out in October. I can’t stop listening to Houseghost. Also, a shout out to the very 1950s-looking Halloween imagery on the cover. It’s a style that I am obsessed with and it immediately drew me in. This is a winner all around. –Ty Stranglehold (Rad Girlfriend, radgirlfriendrecords.bandcamp.com)