I don't know about you, but I've been stuck in a music rut for about eight months it seems like. You know exactly what I mean: where you listen to the same three artists or two playlists for months at a time. I've needed something new and thank the Good Lord for Spotify. After some digging, sleepless nights, and the occasional crying (wait nevermind, that's for my paper that I should be doing instead) I have put together a new playlist for this fall season. The goal was to find new releases that will remind us of this semester once we are out of school (can I be nostalgic about college while I'm still here?) Also of note, I tried to reach a broad spectrum of music and if I missed your favorite underground Polish folk-rap group, please accept my deepest apologies.
Without further internal conflict,
1. "Fire Escape" by Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness
This is actually the song that inspired me to make this playlist in the first place. Released September 8th, Andrew McMahon is back to deliver yet another hipster anthem. For fans of his previous hit "Cecilia and the Satellite" this is a breath of fresh air. McMahon keeps his stadium rock type sing alongs but also shows off a little bit of range.
2. "Happiness" by NEEDTOBREATHE
Bear Rinehart's voice is pretty much the vocalization of flannel. The same guys who brought us the crossover radio hit "Brother" a couple years back return with a "happy" folksy take. NEEDTOBREATHE was actually in town recently in August at the Lawn at White River State Park.
3. "Sunset Jesus" by Avicii
A little EDM never hurt anyone! This relaxing tune from Avicii proves why he has been the king of EDM for the last several years. Avicii also has caught on to the recent shift in electronic music that is featuring west coast influences. This is not your typical "Wake Me Up" performance from him, but is still enough to bob your head to while on the road.
4. "Cheap Thrills" by Sia (feat. Sean Paul)
This is more of an end to summer song, but who can resist the voice? Sia proves that she's one of the best in the business. Also, we remember that Sean Paul is actually a thing. Win-win.
5. "Still Breathing" by Green Day
The third single released off Green Day's upcoming album "Revolution Radio" is this surprisingly sensitive piece. We know Green Day as the punks they are, but they have proven time and time again that they have a softer side as well. Bordering the line of being a guilty pleasure song, "Still Breathing" still leaves enough bite to remind you who you're listening to.
Did I miss a song? I'm sure I did. Sound off in the comments and share with your friends!