It was time to give my music library a refresh.
For the most part, my 2020 playlist was an amalgamation of previously-liked songs that provided pure nostalgic bliss. When the new year came around, I made it a goal to expand my music library and introduce myself with the unfamiliar. Whether it be through new artists or older albums that I had not heard yet, I wanted to hear anything that was unknown or fresh to me. I may be late to the party in some aspects, but in terms of my objective, I think I am doing pretty well! Below are the songs that have been playing all throughout January:
How could anyone not have "Good Days" by SZA on repeat all of January? I love the layered atmospheric guitar and bird sounds underneath her ethereal vocals. The song feels exquisitely heavy, yet simultaneously light, reminding listeners that tough times are evident, but good days are on the horizon.
Somehow, some way, Rex Orange County's Pony (2019) album got away from me when it first came out, but once I finally put it on, "10/10" pulled me right in with its bright synth chords and fervent sincerity. The song's honest expression of struggle culminates into an optimistic anthem that makes you want to get your life together. Hands down, this is my favorite part: "Give myself a little credit since I dealt with all the pain. Yeah, I turned superhero, I'm comin' in Bruce Wayne."
This upbeat, '80s-inspired track is just a whole lot of fun. Everything, from the sharp 808 drum beats to the vivacious synth, is absolutely infectious. It's the type of song where you, at the very least, have to bob your head, and if not, you have to get up and dance.
Like with Rex Orange County's Pony, Daniel Caesar's Pilgrim Paradise (2015) somehow evaded me, but I am so happy my ears have been blessed with it. "Streetcar" begins with a captivating piano ascension that sends shivers down my spine every time. The instrumentation slowly builds, highlighting both the smoothness and rawness of Caesar's voice.
The first time this song came on, I had an audible jaw-dropping "Oh my god" moment because that is clearly the only proper reaction to Giveon's rich, velvety voice. Its beauty apprehends your soul, and you vividly understand every ounce of his anguish as he delivers each line. Adding the reverberations of choral-like harmonies makes "Stuck On You" a deeply heart-wrenching song that I cannot get enough of.
After watching She-Ra and the Princesses of Power and realizing that Catra is voiced by AJ Michalka, I immediately got back into my adolescent Aly & AJ phase. Needless to say, I was so here for an explicit, amped-up version of "Potential Breakup Song" that appropriately exuded the song's zealously fierce dynamism.
Jhené Aiko's Chilombo (Deluxe) (2020) record was easily my favorite release last year, and although it is not new to me, I am still not at all over it. Like in many of her songs, "Magic Hour" features Aiko's voice effortlessly and elegantly floating over the haze of tranquil instrumentals and soothing harmonies. She has such an ear for creating music that is meditative and healing. If you need to get lost in a reverie of catharsis, this whole album is for you.
This song RULES. Paired with rhythmic rock riffs and drums, lead singer Lili Trifilio commands everyone's attention with her passionate, punchy vocals. This ode to owning your self-worth and calling out "dumb boy talk" will certainly get you fired up and angry at anyone who has tried to play with your heart. I highly recommend the whole Blame Game EP (2021).
I will be the first to admit that I never got over my One Direction phase, and Why Don't We definitely reminds me of them. "I'll Be Okay" itches the scratch for that specific 2010s-boy-band sound that I have such a special place in my heart for. The focus on love, the carefree uptempo beat, and the flourishing harmonies just bring me so much joy.
First, I have to say that everyone needs to do themselves a favor and watch WolfWalkers on Apple TV. Besides having extraordinary striking visuals and a heartwarming storyline, the film features an incredible soundtrack. AURORA reimagines her original version of "Running with the Wolves" to make this adventurous rendition that soars as it captures the essence of bravery and whimsy.
Check out my playlist on Spotify here! Happy listening and happy February!
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