Music is undoubtedly a large part of our everyday lives, whether it’s our ambience or entertainment. It has the power to wake us up, put us to sleep and get us through both good and bad college moments. Here are some suggestions for picking a fitting musician or band for a few common collegiate situations.
For the times you can’t fall asleep: With the beginning months of school come the first round of quizzes, presentations and project assignments. On top of the anxiety-induced by these academic firsts, the social aspect of college tends to weigh on us as well. Consequently, some nights falling asleep becomes just as hard as those quizzes may or not be the next day. However, one artist has the pipes to settle those nerves.
James Vincent McMorrow is an Irish musician with a voice that could calm a storm. His two albums, Early in the Morning and Post Tropical, consist of McMorrow’s tender voice supported by dreamy music and hauntingly beautiful melodies and lyrics. My personal favorites include the tracks “We Don’t Eat” from Early in the Morning and “Cavalier” from his latest album, Post Tropical.
For the times you don’t need to fall asleep: The fact college students procrastinate isn’t much of a secret. Therefore, some nights call for late night paper writing, number crunching, and project altering. Because college takes a toll on our bodies, sometimes we need music to keep us awake and motivated.
Arcade Fire will do just that. Arcade fire, an indie rock group from Canada, has released four albums chock-full of jams that will divert your attention from your pillow. Put on “Wake Up” off their first album, Funeral, and, you’ll do just that. Head bobbing and shameless dancing are encouraged.
For the times you’re walking to class: Some crazy people, myself included, chose classes at eight in the morning. Because normal individuals don’t typically roam the campus before later in the day, the walk to class grows tedious and tiresome throughout the semester. I’ve found the best way to make the distance pass faster is to pop in some ear buds.
The British singer/songwriter, Ben Howard, manages to incorporate both energy and tranquility in his music. His work will help you acclimate to your surroundings but not shock you out of your sleepy state. I suggest “Promises” for the quieter mornings and “The Fear” for the livelier ones.
For the times you’re preparing to take Dallas by storm (or just a local frat party): Put simply, college students desire to go out and have a good time. However, a long week of classes tends to deplete our energy levels, but good music can turn the night around.
The English duo, Disclosure, has a gift in lifting people’s spirits. This pair of brothers specializing in electronic music released their first album, Settle, last year and have been gaining popularity ever since. Their well-known song “Latch” received American radio approval recently, but their whole album should be on your go-to party playlist.
For the times you want to enjoy yourself with your best friends: College consistently creates opportunities for connection. Finding your group of friends takes time, but the true friends you find will add so much fun, love and laughter to your life. Some moments only require good people and good music to be memorable.
The group Bleachers produces the kind of music that can turn a boring situation into an entertaining time. Rooted in New York City, this alternative band released their first album, Strange Desire, this past spring. Though a new act, Bleachers has the chops to climb the charts. “Rollercoaster” is my favorite tune off their album.