1. Banks, “Someone New”
Banks is normally known for her dreary synth-pop songs like “Drowning,” “Beggin For Thread,” and “Waiting Game.” But, hearing Banks strip down to just an acoustic guitar? Uncalled for, right? Basically, “Someone New” will come off as a bit of shock initially, but we slowly begin to realize that this is Banks at her most vulnerable.
Think beach blonde hair, the color pink, and sailboats on the horizon.
2. Halsey, “Castle”
It’s no coincidence that “Castle” was featured in The Huntsman. Its icy, Snow White aesthetic almost blinds us from the true storyline of the song: it’s about Halsey’s ascent to fame. It takes us through her life and the pain surrounding her sudden rise to success and notoriety. But, of course, the dark fairytale twist only adds to the appeal.
Think snow queens, Turkish Delight, and golden capes.
3. Troye Sivan & BROODS, “Ease”
Let me get this straight: Troye Sivan deserves all the hype he can get. Blue Neighborhood is a modern masterpiece, perfectly meshing past, present, and future together with moderation. “Ease” is probably the best song on the album, hands down -- though the entire album is worth a thousand replays.
Think paper towns, indigo skies, and black roses.
4. London Grammar, “Hey Now”
Think the xx, but a little grungier. That’s London Grammar, and you’ve probably heard “Hey Now” in some kind of perfume commercial in the past. “Hey Now” is an ideal song to add to your winter soundtrack, while driving back home on a snowy night.
Think cheap perfume, velvet bows, and rain falling on car windows.
5. Ellie Goulding, “Every Time You Go”
Probably the most underrated song on her debut album Lights. It’s sparkling, but mature. It’s frosty, but not icy enough to turn you away. It twinkles in the night like the North Star; hopefully, it will help you find your way in case you get lost.
Think afternoon naps, gold sequins, and redwood forests.
