Mellow melodies to soothe stress of finals
Speakeasy playlist
By Lindsay Rice, Staff Writer
March 16, 2008 | 7:49 p.m.
Around this time of year in Athens, the combination of stress and winter restlessness can become too much to bear. With this playlist of smooth jams and upbeat messages, relaxation should be more accessible to those in need of some serious leisure time. Each artist below composes songs to fit various moods, but these featured tracks are just what the doctor ordered to cure a severe case of anxiety.
“Wiseman” - Slightly Stoopid
Originally signed in 1995 by Brad Nowell’s Skunk Records, Slightly Stoopid has gone on to become an innovative, musical blend of reggae, punk, acoustic rock and hip hop flavors. This song selection taps into the band's reggae inspirations and provides a melodic beat with soothing vocals reminiscent of Bob Marley, eliciting calmness within the first few seconds of listening.
“Home Again” - Disco Biscuits
The improvisational nature of Disco Biscuits’ music and live shows makes these next artists fall under the jam band category, while their sound is clearly rooted in electronica and funk. In “Home Again,” the merging of the modern-day beats with the soft-yet-forceful voice of the vocalist produce one of the band’s most relaxing tunes.
“Wormwood” - Moe.
Moe. has proven itself as one of the most inventive and durable bands over the course of three decades now, and this song leaves listeners feeling no different. Chill-seekers will be more than satisfied with this lighter track, "Wormwood," which shares its album’s name and feel. The interplay of the guitars and synthesizers varies while the consistent beat adds a cohesive feel.
“Open Up” - Dispatch
This band is similar to the previous band selection in that they are difficult to categorize, but the jam band’s talent has been pleasing listeners for years now. On "Open Up," the energizing guitar play paired with the soothing nature of the vocals makes this song a contrasting blend of ups and downs that will keep your attention without overwhelming.
“Let Go” - Frou Frou
Frou Frou’s recognition was facilitated by this next song selection and its appearance on the soundtrack to the film “Garden State.” The unique vocal stylings allow the duo of Imogen Heap and Guy Sigsworth to be identified immediately. This song in particular, while it is one of the most popular, is simultaneously one of Frou Frou's most inspirational both lyrically and musically. The ambient qualities of the song along with the smooth vocals make this well-known, yet distinctive song, a perfect match for relaxation.
“The Boxer” - Simon and Garfunkel
One would be hard-pressed to find more gentle voices than those of this legendary duo. Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel’s entire album Bridge Over Troubled Water could be considered eligible for this playlist, however, due to the lack of variety that would entail, “The Boxer” will more than suffice. Harmonious voices float over gentle guitar sounds while the famous refrain “lie-la-lie” becomes ingrained in the listener’s memory, making this track more than worthy.
“Good Day Sunshine” - The Beatles
The Beatles have left a musical mark for generations upon generations and along the way have composed a plethora of options for stress-free listening. This optimistic song by the influential foursome is a slightly more upbeat addition to this leisurely list. Lyrically, the song is a studying motivator. The lighter verses are accompanied with the melodious refrain and all the conventional instrumentals, thus making this cheerful track a worthy candidate.
“Amber” - 311
This next group’s talent has allowed them to soar into the mainstream. The band’s tracks are a widespread variety of in-your-face rock and hip hop, even in toned-down songs like “Amber.” The talent on the bass guitar provides a funky beat, while the distinct vocals highlight karmic lyrics. The result is a mellow jam signature to the band's softer style.
“Fake Plastic Trees” - Radiohead
Over the course of the last decade and into today, Radiohead has produced some of the most original and innovative music of its time. This track hails from the album “The Bends” and boasts an intricate guitar line typical of the band. A soft and somber track, “Fake Plastic Trees” has a similar feel to many of the songs on “The Bends. “
“Spiritualize” - Lotus
The list’s final installment is from a band that offers a blend of electronica and rock with the inventiveness specific to many of today's jam bands. "Spiritualize" is a smooth ride of synthesizing and tranquil bass lines that effortlessly entrances listeners. Tapping a pen or pencil to the ubiquitous beats is inevitable. The advice would be simply to give in.
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