Exploring the Soundtrack of What We Do in the Shadows Season 5

Season 5 of What We Do in the Shadows continues to delight audiences with its unique blend of dark humor and supernatural antics set against the backdrop of Staten Island. Created by Jemaine Clement, this cult favorite returns with beloved characters Nandor, Laszlo, Nadja, and Colin Robinson as they navigate the absurdities of modern life.

Since its premiere in 2019, this comedy horror series, inspired by the 2014 film co-created by Clement and Taika Waititi, has garnered a dedicated fan base. The show’s clever writing and memorable characters tackle both supernatural dilemmas and mundane realities, and season 5 is no exception, introducing fresh dynamics and comedic surprises that have solidified its status as an Emmy-nominated series.

Soundtrack Overview

The music of What We Do in the Shadows Season 5 plays a critical role in creating the atmosphere that accentuates the vampires’ uproarious escapades. To curate this engaging soundtrack, FX enlisted the skills of renowned music supervisors Nora Felder and Carly Van Skaik. Their expertise has led to a diverse selection of tracks that effectively complement the show’s darkly comedic flair, enriching each episode’s emotional landscape.

Complete Soundtrack Guide for Season 5

This guide details the songs featured in each episode of Season 5, showcasing the creativity and thematic resonance of the series’ soundtrack.

Episode 1: The Mall

• “Piensace”– Instrumental: This nostalgic track by Daniele Benati, Luigi Scialdone, and Gaetano Scognamiglio highlights Guillermo’s flashback scene with a humorous twist.
• “My Sweetheart”– Walter Noack: Offering a gentle background, this song plays as Colin serves tables, contrasting the vampires’ typical chaos.
• “Slow Pop Groove”– Luca Pirozzi & Ettore Carucci: Featured in two pivotal moments, this laid-back track enhances the interactions around Guillermo’s cryptic comments.
• “I Got You (I Feel Good)”– What We Do in the Shadows Cast: Performed by Nadja’s doll, this lively song injects humor into the vampires’ relationships.
• “What’s Your Poison”– Benny Sky: Setting an intriguing tone, this track plays when Guillermo joins the vampires at dinner.
• “Rock Attack”– Inside Tracks: This energetic piece lifts the spirits during the “Gilly’s Gifts”scene.

Episode 2: A Night Out with the Guys

• “Hot Slinky Blues”– Vyvyan Hope-Scott: This jazzy tune sets a relaxed vibe as the vampires enjoy their evening at the wine bar.
• “The Drunkard’s Song”– Viktor Mastoridis: Providing comedic relief, this song plays during Colin’s diner order, adding to the humor.
• “Hey! (I’m Dead)”– Jank Sinatra: Used in the end credits, this upbeat track accompanies Laszlo’s surprising revelations.

Episode 3: Pride Parade

• “Violin Concerto No. 5 In A Major”– Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: This classical piece underscores a montage that showcases Laszlo’s eccentricity.
• “Ants Marching”– Dave Matthews Band: Colin’s attempts to create an atmosphere are humorously accompanied by this well-known song.
• “It’s Raining Men”– The Weather Girls: This vibrant tune perfectly captures the celebratory energy of the Pride Parade.

Episode 4: The Campaign

• “Salute to Victory”– Roger Barsotti: This cheeky anthem enhances Colin’s quirky campaign scenes with a heroic feel.
• “Roses From The South Waltzes”– Johann Strauss: A classic waltz adds a touch of elegance when Laszlo meets a welcoming family.

Episode 5: Local News

• “Flash News”– Alessandro Alessandroni: This track injects comedic tension during the Channel 8 News, highlighting the vampires’ interactions with the real world.
• “Die Walküre: Ride of the Valkyries”– The City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra: This dramatic orchestral piece brings the episode to a grand close amidst the vampires’ antics.

Episode 6: Urgent Care

• “Muzak Maker”– Bob Bradley: This track humorously contrasts Nadja and Guillermo’s supernatural elements with a mundane vet visit.
• “Sweet Afternoon”– Manuel Faivre, Miguel Saboga, Yvo Abadi: A light-hearted score that supports a robbery scene, maintaining a comedic tone.

Episode 7: Hybrid Creatures

• “Hrabral March”– Jelka: This uplifting track complements Nadja’s unorthodox teaching methods, adding comedic flair.
• “Rustic Charm”– Gerald Dorset: Enhancing a museum field trip, this whimsical score plays during Colin and Nandor’s educational endeavors.

Episode 8: The Roast

• “Tender Heart”– Albert Ketelbey: This touching piece underscores a poignant moment as Laszlo’s health declines.
• “Cocktails At Five”– Adam Groden: Highlighting comedic frustration, this elevator-style music plays during Colin’s hold time.

Episode 9: A Weekend at Morrigan Manor

• “Magma”– Zbigniew Gorny: A mysterious score that intensifies the atmosphere when a fencer character is introduced.
• “Tonight In The Moonlight”– The Morrie Morrison Orchestra: This classic track elevates the chess match between Colin and Nandor.

Episode 10: Exit Interview

• “Amour”– Alan Hawkshaw: In a rare serious moment, this heartfelt track adds depth to an important conversation.
• “Demonic Ritual”– Gregor F Narholz & Phoenix Choir: Building suspense, this eerie composition accompanies Guillermo’s preparations for a ritual.

Unfeatured Tracks

While the creative team considered an array of songs for inclusion, some didn’t make the final cut. Tracks like “Real Friend”by Shumba Piankhi Mahluli and “Lounge Bar Blues”by Vyvyan Hope-Scott were initially slated for character-driven scenes but were ultimately excluded, highlighting the careful selection process aimed at enriching the series’ distinctive soundtrack.

The Season 5 soundtrack of What We Do in the Shadows amplifies the series’ quirky charm, accentuating the vampires’ chaotic adventures with an eclectic mix of humor and captivating melodies. As the series progresses, the carefully chosen music deepens the audience’s engagement, proving to be yet another reason this fifth season is a standout installment in the franchise.