Remarkably different in tone than Cadabra's previous releases, The Hearse Song and other tales is lighthearted, somewhat goofy, and perfect for the season. One tends to associate grimness with Halloween, and that's fine, but one must also remember that it's a time for tricks and treats as well. Starting with the fairly jovial take on what it's like to be dead, "The Hearse Song" is read with joyous aplomb and scored with a light, very traveling roadshow backing. Finishing side A, and arguably the strongest piece on this release is "The Velvet Ribbon." Slasher Film Festival Strategy's score for this telling is more restrained than the opening number, and plays very well with Anthony's wonderful reading. Keeping the trend of goofy and then solid, side B opens with the over-the-top "Skin and Bones." Thankfully, this one minute distraction is followed by a stellar reading of "The Teeth." Slasher's score is tense and creepy and plays very well with Anthony's reading.

Cadabra Records really knows what they're doing, and continue to impress with each release. While my first few spins of this had me questioning their judgment, the true spirit of the season took hold, and I realized that they were on track this whole time. A year or so ago, if you had told me that I'd be enjoying spoken word horror releases, I'd have told you to cram it with walnuts. However, Cadabra Records has truly made me a fan.