With classes, midterms and looming finals approaching as the year draws to a close, we all need to find some solace in this stressful time. Listening to music has always been a way for me to calm down in stressful moments and crazy times. Here are a few of my favorites that I listen to in times when I need to take a step back and calm down.
1) “7 Hours Ago” - Honeywater
The strum of the guitar compliments the melodic sadness of the crooning duo, Zander Hawley and Amandla Stenberg, as they sing of heartbreak and wistfulness. It’s easy for me to get lost in the song and feel as though I’m floating.
2)“Halo” - Lewis Watson
The rich voice of Lewis Watson breaks out from the quiet guitar the song begins with. You can’t help but feel the love he put into this acoustic track.
3) “When the Storm Is Near” - Ostrea Lake
This song, while slightly ominous, is calming. With the coming storm of finals, we can all survive like Ostrea Lake does.
4) “Gone (The Pocahontas Song)” - Ziggy Alberts
After listening to the upbeat, simplistic strum and fast past of the song, you can’t help but feel happy and at peace despite the wistful lyrics crying for a lost lover.
5) “This Town” - Niall Horan
In this song, Niall Horan uses his acoustic guitar to create a doleful song, looking back wistfully on happier times.
6) “The Screen Door and Me” - Lou Ruiz
This slow song tells the story of growing up and how things change. The mournful voice of Lou Ruiz calls upon my own memories of growing up and how life is now flying by too quickly.
7) “Wind & Anchor” - The National Parks
This woeful duet blends two melodious voices and a violin to create a peaceful, yet riveting, acoustic vibe.
8) “Cherry Wine” - Hozier
The rich, deep voice of Hozier paired with gentle strums of a guitar creates a peaceful aura that flows effortlessly.
9) “Tenerife Sea” - Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran is known for his incredible love songs and creative lyrics. With his acoustic mini guitar and passionate lyrics, he can lull even the most stressed college students into a moment of brief serenity.
10) “By the Ocean” - Kid Indigo
The start of the song describes the most relaxing thing imaginable: bare feet on the beach with your best friend.
11) “Forest Fires” - Axel Flovent
The voice of Axel Flovent blends seamlessly with the quiet instrumental as he sings of his unwavering support for another. We could all use a bit of unwavering support in this time of impending stress.
12) “Hallelujah” - Jeff Buckley
It’s a classic, reassuring song. What more can be said?
