While my summers might not have been as productive as I initially perceived them to be, it nonetheless provided me the opportunity to diversify my taste in music. For the very first time, I introduced myself to the likes of A$AP Rocky and other notable rappers (Drake is an obvious inclusion in that list). Additionally, I also manifested a keen interest in Indie music, which I feel, among numerous other musical genres, was missing from my life.
As I sit down to list my Top 5 favorite songs from this summer, I realize that the playlist will still come across as very generic and “basic” to some people. For that matter, I welcome any other music suggestions the readers might have, and I promise to give them a listen!
5.Sundress- A$AP Rocky
The controversial arrest of the Harlem rapper perhaps saw a surge in A$AP’s following with thousands of his fans coming out in large numbers in support of his release. Sundress, will probably not be new music to most ears but it definitely has something to offer. Rocky’s collaboration with Tame Impala was long-awaited which did reasonably well in adding a psychedelic touch to the tune. With a catchy and engaging music video relating to the insecurity and trust issues that come along (most) relationships, the song substantiates its position as arguably my favorite Indie Rap!
4.Metanoia- MGMT
If Electric Feel was made to be enjoyed on a sultry afternoon at a Californian beach, then Metanoia was your come-down song to listen to. Melancholic to describe at the very best, the unexpected shifts and turns between the seven parts will possibly transcend your inner reality to a whole new level and, that is what makes Metanoia an MGMT classic.
3.Beverly Laurel- Tame Impala
Beverly Laurel by Tame Impala will always be a palpable experience for the Impala fans who at the same time nod in agreement that the song hasn’t gotten the attention it deserves. In another controversy that arose after its release, the album categorization came under attack, where critics till this very day situate Beverly Laurel under Currents (as opposed to Lonerism). But all that said, the 3 minutes mostly instrumental musical-tune will encapsulate your soul in its entirety with its perfectly composed pitch. Listening to it will make you reminiscence those old summer days when there were less obvious things to worry about!
2. Forget Her- Jeff Buckley
The sad demise of the Californian star Jeff Buckley left the world in an unspeakable amount of pain but not at the expense of Jeff’s music losing any importance among his fan base. Forget Her is a nearly perfect yet a mesmerizing rendition that encompasses the themes of loneliness, rejection, and abandonment. Every word of the song hits you right at the bottom of your heart and one wonders how Jeff Buckley is able to express something in 5 minutes what you have felt your entire life!
Honorable Mentions:
Crimson and Clover- Tommy James & The Shondells
Porcelain- Moby
Lost on You – LP
Sweet- Cigarettes After Sex
We Turn Red- Red Hot Chili Peppers
1.Los Angeles- The Midnight
In a world full of Beliebers and Ed Sheeran fans, not many people are aware of The Midnight and that continues to be an unfortunate bitter-sweet reality. Originating in 2012, the synthwave music band has augmented its position within the electronic Indie circuit courtesy its single: Los Angeles. The song is nothing short of a metaphorical mastery that can be dissected in so many different ways. If you are a fan of the movie La La Land, start off by watching the music video and what you have is an epitome of a “perfect relationship” put into perspective. Or on the contrary, you can simply listen to Los Angeles as it is and let yourself embark on a sentimental journey to all the happier times that lie ahead. The song cannot be described for anything less than an unforgettable experience!