Quick answer: Netflix's Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story deliberately mixes a late-19th-century setting with modern music. The soundtrack includes songs such as The Runaways' “Cherry Bomb,” Kate Bush's “Hounds of Love,” Wet Leg's “mangetout,” The Doors' “The End,” Bronski Beat's “Smalltown Boy” and Natalie Merchant's “Carnival.”
Why does Monster use modern music in a Victorian story?
Co-showrunner Ian Brennan explained to Netflix Tudum that the creative team did not want the period setting to feel like a static museum display. The modern songs are part of the show's decision to connect Lizzie's story with contemporary audiences and the later cultural legacy of the case.
The soundtrack also reflects the season's unusual time structure. The series moves from Lizzie Borden's 1890s story to earlier historical material involving Elizabeth Báthory and later material involving Aileen Wuornos. The music helps bridge those different eras.
Monster Season 4 soundtrack: the songs
- The Runaways — “Cherry Bomb”
- Kate Bush — “Hounds of Love”
- Wet Leg — “mangetout”
- Lambrini Girls — “Cuntology 101”
- Jefferson Airplane — “Today”
- The Doors — “The End”
- Chromatics — “I'm On Fire”
- Bronski Beat — “Smalltown Boy”
- Andrew Oldham Orchestra — “The Last Time”
- Natalie Merchant — “Carnival”
Why the soundtrack stands out
The contrast is intentional. Instead of trying to reproduce the soundscape of 1892, the series uses familiar modern recordings to make the emotional themes feel immediate. That approach also mirrors the way Monster treats historical memory: the past is constantly being reinterpreted by the present.
Is there an original score too?
Yes. In addition to the licensed songs, the series has original music associated with composer Bryce Dessner. The licensed soundtrack and the original score serve different purposes: one creates recognizable cultural associations, while the score supports scenes without relying on familiar pop songs.
Where to hear the music
Netflix Tudum has published a soundtrack guide, and Netflix Music has also released official soundtrack material online. Availability can vary by music service and territory.
FAQ
What is the most recognizable song in Monster Season 4?
One of the most prominently reported tracks is “Cherry Bomb” by The Runaways.
Why is modern music used in Monster?
The creators use contemporary music to keep the period drama from feeling overly museum-like and to connect the historical story with modern viewers.
Is Monster Season 4 streaming now?
Yes. The eight-episode season is streaming on Netflix.
Who created Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story?
The season was created by Ian Brennan as part of the Monster anthology associated with Ryan Murphy and Brennan.
Sources: Netflix Tudum soundtrack guide; TheWrap; Netflix Music on YouTube.
Fact-check note
This article distinguishes the Netflix dramatization from documented history. Lizzie Borden was acquitted in 1893; claims about guilt, private relationships, motives and events not established by surviving records are described as fictionalized or disputed rather than settled fact.
Netflix Tudum: The True Story · Netflix Tudum: Ending Explained · PEOPLE: Fact vs Fiction · PEOPLE: Emma/Lizzie Fact Check
