– Julia Antonson
We did it guys. We survived another Champaign winter. As we watch the snow melt when we walk to class, it is time to think about how this change in season will change our lives. Mainly in the sense that we won’t be constantly wearing the hat, gloves, and scarf combo. So let’s all raise our headphones and say goodbye to those winter blues. Here are some songs to put a spring in your step (pun intended).
1. The Whitest Boy Alive – “Burning”
Although The Whitest Boy Alive broke up last June, that doesn’t mean we can’t praise them for their contribution to music since they began in 2003. The steady beat produced by drummer Sebastian Maschat along with bassist Marcin Oz produces a funky wave of sound as you listen to it. Be warned: walking in sync with the song may occur.
2. The Smiths – “This Charming Man”
As the second single for The Smiths, “This Charming Man” had to be included. The riffs made by guitarist Johnny Marr combined with the exposed voice of lead singer Morrissey really gives this song a smooth yet upbeat tempo. I feel as though this is a quintessential song to cure seasonal depression and I recommend a dosage of listening to this song once a day to clear all symptoms.
3. Ram Di Dam – “Flashbacks”
“Flashbacks” has, hands down, one of my favorite intros to a song. If you are still stuck in those winter blues, the first 16 seconds of the song will definitely brighten up your day. Throughout the whole song, the constant upbeat tempo will hold your attention and by the end of it, you will have forgotten all about our long winter. However, you still might remember it’s a Monday and I can’t help you with that.
4. Washed Out – “Feel It All Around”
No, you are not going crazy, this is the opening song to the show Portlandia. What caught my attention in this song is its calming effect. It reminds me of spring time breezes through the trees or driving with the windows down with your friends. Frontman Ernest Greene produces a dream-like state with this song making us feel nostalgic for spring and those summer nights.
5. New Order – “Blue Monday”
To be honest, I heard this song while watching the Carrie Diaries. Although I am not proud to admit this, I am glad I was able to find this song. Formed in 1980, New Order’s “Blue Monday” has this steady beat that can only be described as dance-rock. This 1983 hit is currently the best-selling 12″ single which is understandable when you listen to the mixture of early techno and guitar sounds.
6. Electronic Light Orchestra – “Mr. Blue Sky”
I feel like this song is the national anthem for when spring comes around. The lyrics explain it all, “Mr. Blue Sky/ why did you have to hide away for so long?” What is really cool about this song is that it was written as a wake-up call to Christopher Ferguson, an astronaut on the Space Shuttle Atlantis. So hey, if it could help an astronaut, I am pretty sure it will add a pep in your step as you head to class.
7. Mumford and Sons – “Hopeless Wanderer”
After gracing the main stage at Lollapalooza in 2013, Mumford and Sons is a band that everyone knows and relates to. However, I included “Hopeless Wanderer” because if you have yet to see the music video for the song, you have got to. Picture Ed Helms, Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis and Will Forte acting as members of the band. Trust me after seeing this music video, you will leave those winter blues in the dust.
8. Best Coast – “Boyfriend”
While listening to “Boyfriend,” you can’t help but notice the California vibe coming from this song, which makes sense since Best Coast hails from none other than Los Angeles. The relaxed lyrics and vocals of Bethany Cosentino are key examples of their inspiration from 1960s surf rock groups. When listening to this song, picture yourself feeling those California breezes and leaving Champaign-Urbana all behind.
9. Generationals – “Put a Light On”
Everything about this song just works. The summery vibes mixed with the slight bell chimes in this song really gives it a light feeling. This combined with the chilled out grooves that accompany it makes “Put a Light On” a song for those days on the quad hanging with friends. Which is now possible seeing as though the tundra has passed us.
10. Is Tropical – “Land of the Nod”
Last and certainly not least is the indietronica styling of Is Tropical. The title itself refers to the biblical reference where dwelling in the land of the Nod means to have a wandering lifestyle. Get your wander on and listen to “Land of the Nod” on your walk to class and hopefully you’ll be in a dream-like state.
