For when you need to take a break: Jack Garratt, "Phase" – Jack Garratt has been the recipient of a lot of well-deserved buzz since the release of his EP "Remnants" in 2014 and finally released his first full-length album, "Phase," in February. The artist defies genres, melding singer-songwriter tradition with indie pop, R&B, and electronica elements to create a multifaceted listening experience. His album is a perfect study break for when you don’t feel like you can do any more work or—my personal favorite—a great companion while sitting in bed for far too long, contemplating life.
One song: “Weathered” – A song that speaks of growing up and growing old and the hopes that love can somehow change that inevitable future; like all of Garratt’s work, it’s a sweet-sounding reflection of something less sweet. This song is stripped down for Garratt—largely just his voice and some drums—giving it a sense of profound sincerity.
For your moodier moments: The Joy Formidable, "Hitch" – The Welsh band released their third studio album, Hitch, at the end of March of this year. Recorded on the road while touring for past music, they didn’t slow down while making this album, and the songs reflect this incessant striving juxtaposed by the reduced speed of their normal, country lifestyle. Nothing about the album is comfortable, and nothing is meant to be.
One song: “The Last Thing on My Mind” – Rhiannon “Ritzy” Bryan is the definition of a cool female frontman here, oozing attitude and grit. “The Last Thing on My Mind” is an upbeat jam about freedom and sexuality.
For when you’re ready to fall asleep: Little Green Cars, "Ephemera" – The indie rock band from Dublin, Ireland released their sophomore album, "Ephemera," on March 11th. The songs blend together smoothly, with sweet harmonies and a quiet, folksy guitar. The album is effortlessly beautiful and poignant, the simple lyrics speaking of lost loves, deaths, and finding resilience against it all. Despite the material, the sound remains perfectly calming, leaving it a great album to play while trying to fall asleep.
One song: “The Garden of Death” – This song has dark undertones like much of the album, but sings of beauty and perseverance as well. It has a simple, haunting melody that will likely stick with you for hours.
For when you want to pump up: Lucius, "Good Grief" – The five-piece indie pop band hailing from Brooklyn, NY released their second album, "Good Grief," on March 11th. Although the album begins sleepily, the energy soon abounds, reflecting the nature of bouncing back after the heartbreak even the album title speaks of. The sound from song to song is varied, leaving the listener guessing what will come next in a thoroughly exciting listening experience.
One song: “Almost Makes Me Wish for Rain” – Maybe it’s because I first listened to this song while walking home in the pouring rain (and really not wishing for rain), but this song is a standout on the album. It starts out slow and gradually gathers speed, morphing into an all-out dance number before finishing with the sound of calming rainfall.
