The holiday season is right around the corner, but some say the end of the world will happen first. The Mayan apocalypse is scheduled to end life as we know it only 4 days before Christmas. I’m not here to encourage negative thoughts, but let’s run with it. This seems like a good theme for a party! And what is a party without music?

People have been worried about the end of the world since the dawn of time, and, at least in the last century, have expressed that worry in song. Sometimes they’re happy, sometimes they’re sad, and sometimes they’re just plain weird. To help get you started with your December 21^st party planning, I’ve scoured the Internet for the best of the best of these apocalypse songs.

So instead of looting a Wal-Mart or fortifying your dorm room against the impending zombie apocalypse, grab a case of beer, turn on some end-of-the-world tunes and relax your way into oblivion.

5 songs for the apocalypse

“Apocalypse Please” – Muse

Let’s face it, if you’re a Muse fan you already know most of their music is pretty dark and “end of the world”-themed. “Apocalypse Please” is a call out to the powers-that-be for big changes and if that means the end of the world? Well, Muse is ok with that.

“End of the World” – Great Big Sea

What would an apocalypse playlist be with out this classic? While this is a cover, the original R.E.M version is nothing like this folksy, playful tune. Great Big Sea’s version is more of a celebration than a lament and it’ll get your party guests dancing, drinking and reminiscing about the good times.

“The Man Comes Around” – Johnny Cash

Since he’s the ultimate emo-kid, you have to have a little Cash on your list. “The Man Comes Around” is filled with dark, biblical imagery, all in Cash’s signature spoken-word, deep and scary voice. It’ll bring the festivities down to a more somber level, but it’s well worth it.

“Apocalypse Lullaby” – The Wailin’ Jennys

A song for the end of the night, when everyone is a bit worse for wear, “Apocalypse Lullaby” will sing you to sleep with thoughts of nuclear fallout and zombie attacks dancing in your head. This band of Canadians really knows how to rock until the world ends.

“Calamity Song” – The Decemberists

This song is a must on your Apocalypse playlist, even if just for the video. A game of tennis shaped like the earth plays out a nuclear war that puts an end to the world as we know it. The song goes against the negative imagery with the Decemberists traditional peppy, folk rock, The thumping beat will have you and your fellow partiers on their feet in no time.

Plug a few of these songs into your iPod and get the party started. After all, this could be your last party ever.