Ok. So I know that this is a travel blog, and I should be writing about my anticipation for my European Christmas holiday escapades. But I spent a lot of time creating a playlist for a website that won't publish it anyway because I kind of messed up on the deadline for submission. Instead, I'll just put it up here! Music is a huge part of my life, and every song evokes an emotion in me, makes me recall a memory, or prompts me to dream up a scenario that would fit with the song.
This playlist was supposed to be a holiday-themed one, but I ended up widening the theme out to "winter" in general, because the bleakness of the season makes for so much more inspiration and, therefore, interesting material on the artists' part.
Below is the playlist as it was supposed to be published. Hope you enjoy it, and happy holidays!
Winter - Joshua Radin
Joshua Radin is known for his dulcet, breathy tones and his skill with the guitar. His sound is reminiscent of Train's, but is nowhere near as annoying. With this ballad, he offers a melancholic yet beautiful perspective on winter.
Surprise Ice - Kings of Convenience
This Norwegian duo is typically armed with acoustic guitars and intricate, calming melodies. On Surprise Ice, they stick to that very same formula. The consistency of the tune sends you into a bit of a lull, the kind that is perfect for staying warm indoors in front of a lit fireplace while it is bitingly cold outside.
The Christmas Song - She & Him
What would a winter playlist be without Christmas song? She & Him, of which actress Zooey Deschanel forms one half, released their holiday album back in October this year. It is one of the more tasteful holiday albums out there, and will be a welcome alternative to the (very) guilty Christmas pleasures that are Michael Bublé and Wham!
White Winter Hymnal - Fleet Foxes
The song title says it all, really.
Blood Bank - Bon Iver
The is one of the more haunting offerings by Bon Iver, but that is why it is so fitting for those dark, cold winter afternoons.
Home - Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
This song is a reminder of all the comforts and memories that we associate with being home, surrounded by family and friends.
New York - Cat Power
It seems as though every single American Christmas film is set in New York. Cat Power's cover of Frank Sinatra's New York, New York is bluesy and dark, good enough for all of you Scrooges out there.
In the Waiting Line - Zero 7
After every hectic Christmas dinner and party, there's the cleaning up to be done. While you do that, put this song on and all will be right in the world. At least for four-and-a-half minutes, it will.
Hoppípolla - Sigur Rós
The uplifting strings in this track combined with bell chimes and the simple melody just scream 'winter'.
White Christmas - Otis Redding
That instantly recognisable soulful voice lends itself to one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time. To be listened to with a big steaming mug of hot chocolate in hand.
Auld Lang Syne - Artist Medley
Sara Bareilles, Butch Walker, Lenka, and many other contemporary singer-songwriters come together beautifully on this a cappella version of the New Year's classic.
On A Winter's Day - Foreign Beggars ft. Ravi Shakti
On this track, MC group Foreign Beggars interestingly sample Puerto Rican singer and guitarist Jose Feliciano's version of the 1960s anthem California Dreamin'. The result is an incredible match between the Spanish guitar, hip-hop beats and a thought-provoking social commentary.
Night Air - Jamie Woon
Shortlisted for the BBC's Sound of 2011, Jamie Woon's lead single off of his album Mirrorwriting is filled with intense vocals and electronic lilts. The song rises and falls with Woon's soulful control over his voice, as the syncopated beats add passion to what would otherwise be an empty and eerie tune.