Below is a list of tracks for all of one’s cerebral needs. In addition to looking out a window in the rain, the songs are also fit for clarity-seeking strolls and scenic train rides. This composition is made with a hint of sarcasm – but, just as well, it commends great music on life, love and self. You are the star of the movie that is your life. So earbuds in, assume the gaze position and reflect.
“Fade Into You,” Mazzy Star
An apt entry point into this time of self. Vocals and acoustics will certainly drown out surrounding noise.
“Kingston,” Faye Webster
Nostalgic still, though contoured with an uplifting, jazzy rhythm. Webster brings listeners into her narrative – tune in should you prefer to keep yours at bay.
“Soft Spot,” Claud
A candid account of vulnerable musings with a precious air of indie-pop. A new song, yet one of timeless sentiment.
“Work,” Charlotte Day Wilson
A soulful pretext to a chapter that feels daunting and lovely. Escapism deepens and twists with Wilson’s rich voice; music swells at the right moments.
“Coffee,” Sylvan Esso
And here, a literal and figurative drop of coffee. Esso’s voice glistens a hopeful delicacy, as notes chime to brew warm coffee amidst a wild winter.
“From the Dining Room Table,” Harry Styles
Filled to the brim with personal, yet universal sentiment. Although more than capable of vibrant, fun tracks, Styles here paints nostalgia in a vivid, heart-wrenching fashion.
“Lilo,” The Japanese House
Exhibits a unique lull. Expansive echoes and striking chords float through each verse. Fittingly titled after another word for air mattress, “Lilo” guides listeners further and further adrift.
“Two Slow Dancers,” Mitski
High likelihood for tears; skip if you must. Eloquent and hypnotic, Mitski suspends two people in a heartbreaking moment – as she will to you as well.
“Shadowboxer,” Fiona Apple
A smooth soundscape bearing accusation and clarity. This classic from Fiona Apple’s debut record offers a darker shade of emotion.
“Moon Song,” Phoebe Bridgers
A faint, shrill whistle noise weaves about. This track is composed of complex and beautifully eccentric lyrics – the means through which Bridgers expresses her truth.
“Paul,” Big Thief
A mosaic of past and future. Big Thief crafts an intricate, tough love story with tactful surrealism.
“Stay Right Here,” Saba, Xavier Omär, Mick Jenkins
Sharp, yet soft – authentic through and through. A taste of rap that is triumphant and grateful.
“Give Me A Minute,” Lizzy McAlpine
Settling back into calm after a more upbeat rejuvenation per Saba. Cascading acoustics and McAlpine’s humming make for a tender ballad that is simultaneously decisive and out of sorts.
“Caroline,” Arlo Parks
A story told by an outside observer. Lyric after lyric, Parks forges an intimacy of strangers with a perspective that is so evidently intuitive.
“Pristine,” Snail Mail
An honest lament on conflict transpired. Complete with drums and raw vocals, verses tumble after one another in the sweet and bold “Pristine.”
“Days Are Gone,” HAIM
Turning it up a notch, as this assemblage comes to an end. This retrospective, hard-hitting piece by three sisters will aid your transition back into the world.
“Resonant Body,” Maggie Rogers
And lastly, for grounding’s sake. Recognize where and who you are – elbows, toes, rib cage and all. As the soft strumming and distant thuds dwindle, return to the life from which everything you’re feeling is drawn.
