It would be kind of ridiculous to write about this month's theme (VOICE) without mentioning music. I actually don't talk about music on the blog as much as I'd like to, which is kind of odd considering my blog name. But for those of you who don't know, I am capital-o Obsessed with music and am always looking for new songs, albums and artists to add to my playlist. Here are some of the songs I've loved in 2019. Keep in mind these are songs that weren't necessarily released this year but that I've adored anyway.
Aesthetic: Floating gently to the bottom of the sea as the sun reflects off the water.
Why this song: Ok, so maybe I was initially a little late to the Billie Eilish party, but now that I'm here, WOW, my dudes. I love Billie's full-length LP (honestly all of those songs are the jam), but this one in particular is so hauntingly beautiful. Her voice is so young, pure, and innocent, but coupled with genuine pain and heartfelt lyrics. Love the layered vocals towards the end of the song. So sad and beautiful, I DIG.
Aesthetic: Parading around your living room in a full black cloak for sheer theatrics; background music for reading Edgar Allan Poe.
Why this song: Why not this song? It's ridiculously short, sweepingly dramatic, beautifully breathtaking and an absolute gem of a track that easily takes the cake as my favorite song by this band. It's Queen, of course (read: maximum drama), but somehow more pleading and soft than anything I've heard from them. I went out and bought the full album on vinyl the other day just so I could listen to this track.
Aesthetic: Foot-stomping your way down a woodland path in the park, as the sun dapples down and your spirit soars at the joys of living (WOW what are my words today).
Why this song: My sister and I saw Hozier in concert this year, and before that night, I hadn't heard this particular track from his new album, but OH MAN. His raw vocals (and stellar background singers) on that killer chorus make this one an instant favorite. Worth a listen, or twelve. DANG IT ANDREW HOZIER-BYRNE. Be right back, just going to be scream-singing this one for the rest of all eternity.
Aesthetic: You're literally these two from Wes Anderson's Moonrise Kingdom, and you're going on adventures, darn it.
Why this song: It's Miike Snow but with a sort of whimsical twist. I love the playful keys and the whistling, and the marching-band style drums give it a youthful feel. It's cute, very summery, and simple enough to sing along to after literally one listen.
Aesthetic: Breathless declaration of identity while gently swaying from side to side.
Why this song: I usually don't listen to a ton of worship music (which I'd actually like to change), but I heard this song at a Bible study and WOW, the lyrics and powerful vocals just move me. I have sung this song at the top of my lungs more times than I can count, just leaning into the promises of God. Love the live recording because it feels like there's a whole stadium of people singing with me. Also, the song just keeps going....it gives you time to let the lyrics wash over you.
Aesthetic: Leaving town with only a suitcase to your name and a long woodland drive ahead of you.
Why this song: I can't even begin to describe how much the Lumineers' music affects me. It's relatively simple and often acoustic, but there's an urgency to it, and the raw vocals from their lead singer are like a wound. He believes every word he sings, you can tell. Those keys towards the end of the song also have my heart. Eagerly awaiting the third record.
AND THESE GUYS:
What about you?
What are some of your favorite songs this year, my dudes? I look forward to hearing your recommendations! So far 2019 has been a wonderful year for music.
you have such great music taste. I love it. Foster The People's "Style" has been on my repeat for a while too. theyve been one of my favorites for a long time.
ReplyDeletebut I also joined late to the Billie Eilish party, but Im still not sure how I feel about her music. her voice is great and I love her sound and think shes crazy talented but idk if its for me.
Im been loving Marina's new album. and blackbears new album. plus just listening to old favorites like Jon Bellion and classic twenty one pilots :)
You are the best, Faith!! Foster the People is one of my favorite bands, too. I love how gritty "Style" is, and I hope they release a new album soon because I am so ready for it!! Yes, Billie Eilish is kind of a specific taste, and her music is sort of all over the place, though on some songs it's more stripped down and simple and less chaotic.
DeleteI haven't listened to Marina or Blackbear, I will have to check them both out! Thanks so much for the recommendations. :) YES twenty one pilots will never get old. I've been in the mood lately to give Blurryface another listen!
Pretty awesome post. I should do a post on music, honestly, since I am OBSESSED with spotify.
ReplyDeleteAnd, if I'm not mistaking, that is a neopet on your sidebar, right? :D
Ooh, I would love to read it! I am always looking for new tunes. Let me know if you post your own fave songs soon. :) It is 100% a Neopet! I used to have a little Pokemon on my sidebar with my "Things I Love List" but it was time for a change! XD
Deleteoh wow, I've listened to much similar music-- but what can I say, we both have amazing music tastes XD
ReplyDeleteI was just listening to billie's new-ish album this morning and it seriously made me feel all the feels. her voice feels so calming and it has a way of pulling at your heartstrings, right?
also, queen is amazing.
I haven't listened to too much vampire weekend, but maybe I should start. wonderful post!
Oh that's rad! I love connecting with people over shared music taste, so that's so cool that you love some of the same songs and bands. :) OH GOSH YES. Her music is so heartbreaking and sincere but also edgy, which is such a cool combo. I love it! You've got to check out Vampire Weekend, they are excellent. Listen to the Contra album for more upbeat tunes or the Modern Vampires of the City record for more moody songs (my fave album by them). Thanks so much for commenting, Vaishnavi!! :D <3
DeleteBillie Eilish has some amazing songs. Bellyache is one of my favorites.
ReplyDeleteShe's got a wicked interesting sound and I love a ton of the songs on her new record! I haven't heard Bellyache (I still need to check out her EP) so I will for sure give that a listen soon. Thanks for commenting, Skye!! <3
DeleteI'm mega obsessed with music myself and will have to check out these gems I apparently have been in the dark about?!
ReplyDeleteBut I may or may not have fangirled about the mention of Switchfoot. ;)
Have a lovely week, Erin!
Fellow music lovers unite! For sure check them out, I hope you find a new favorite. :) GAH yes Switchfoot is the jam, they have been such a great band for so long and seem like really humble, genuine guys. Thanks so much for commenting, Kara! Hope your day has been stellar. <3
DeleteI've been needing some new music to listen to so this is a great list! Maybe I need to join in on the Billie Eilish hype...
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Hannah! Billie Eilish's music is honestly unlike anything I've ever heard and for that reason alone is worth checking out. I like "bad guy" and "8" from her new album if you decide to give her a listen. :)
DeleteI love The Lumineers!! Worship music is one of my favorite genres – you should definitely listen to more of it!!
ReplyDeleteA couple of songs that have had me:
Portland Maine / Donovan Woods
Summer Again / The Afters
Carte Noir / Michael Brook
Society / Eddie Vedder
best.
k.
RIGHT? The Lumineers can do no wrong in my eyes and I *cannot wait* for their third record to drop. I totally agree, I am way behind in listening to great worship music, though I've been really impressed by Lauren Daigle's songs.
DeleteI will 100% check those songs out! Thanks so much for the recommendations, Keira. You rock! <3 :)
I've never listened to any of them!! My favorite song changes every time ;) Have a wonderful day! <3
ReplyDeleteKhadija | October's Lallu
Oh for sure check them out, there might be a gem or two in there you might end up liking! :) I feel you, whenever something new comes out I find new favorites - it's the same way with bands, too. Thanks so much for reading, Khadija! I hope your day has been fantastic. <3
DeleteI haven't listened to these but so far this year I'm really into "Somnus" from FInal Fantasy XV, "Saevindur" by Ylja, and "Gravity" from Wicked!
ReplyDeleteOooh I will give those a listen! Thanks for the recommendations, Victoria! :) <3
DeleteI will definitely have to listen through these! I've actually been dying for some music recs lately, so this is perfect.
ReplyDeleteI hope you enjoy them! Happy listening. :) <3
DeleteDon't mind me while I go listen to every single song because your recs so far have been flawless. I am in love with the Wasteland, Baby! album.
ReplyDeleteYou are the best! I hope you find new favorites. I love it, too. Hozier is beyond talented and was amazing live. Thanks so much for reading, Evangeline! I hope you have a fantastic rest of your week. :)
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