Yes, spring has sprung. And as much as I love reading article after article about the “perfect song for your summer playlist” or “a great album to skip down the street to”, it’s actually annoying the hell out of me. Lets not kid ourselves, every day won’t be filled with daisies and puppies.
So, as my gift to you, here are some songs to bring out the little black patches of your heart. BASK IN THE RICH SADNESS PEOPLE! Please, no tears.
“Left and Leaving” by The Weakerthans — Buy
This is a song is a vicious cycle of pleasure and pain, leading to the inevitable long overdue final break up.
“You Don’t Know How Lucky You Are” by Keaton Henson — Buy
Within about 10 seconds, this song gives me crazy knots in my stomach!
“Swans and the Swimming” by Iron & Wine — Buy
Pretty much every Iron & Wine song touches me deeply, but this one is very special because it’s all at once soothing and melancholy.
“Sorrow” by The National — Buy
When Berninger says, “I don’t wanna get over you”, don’t we all know exactly what he means?
“Clouds” by The Submarines — Buy
This is one of those achingly optimistic break-up songs. Enjoy this video though because it may just brighten up your day.
“This Bed” by Horse Feathers — Buy
Horse Feathers is the kind of band that I borderline worship. Everything they do is amazing in my eyes and “This Bed” is just as emotionally powered as the rest of their stuff.
“Deep Water” by The Middle East — Buy
From their recently released album I Want That You Are Always Happy, “Deep Water” has been the standout track for me. It is darkness tinged with a subtle optimism.
“Crown of Love” by Arcade Fire — Buy
“Crown of Love” embodies pretty much everything that I love about Arcade Fire. It’s passionate in a very simplistic way. The lyrics are brilliant and the song is amazing as it builds toward that wonderful climax at the end.
“Tiny Vessels” by Death Cab For Cutie — Buy
I’ve probably thrown things in angst to this song — and if not then I definitely should. I feel so sad that I wish I could turn it off, but I just can’t. And I don’t really want to.
“Holland” by Sufjan Stevens — Buy
This song is phenomenal and deep, like pretty much all of Sufjan Stevens’ work. It’s a beautiful take on the nature of relationships.
