Unwind to a collection of mellow acoustics, a great complement to the crisp autumn scene (pumpkin spice latte optional).
Andrew Bird – “Pulaski at Night”
Referencing the street in Chicago, the centrepiece of Bird’s newest EP is a prime example of the violinist’s gift in creating atmosphere with his music. The song plucks and strums along rhythmically, building momentum until the sweeping violin takes over. Bird adds the final touches to the scenery with his sparse message, “I paint you a picture/Of Pulaski at night/Come back to Chicago/City of, city of light”.
Of Monsters and Men – “Lakehouse”
Similar to the other hits on the Icelandic folk band’s debut album, “Lakehouse” is crafted with soulful harmony and lyrics. The song begins with soothing acoustics, then erupts into an euphoric warmth when the drums start and Nanna Hilmarsdóttir leads for the chorus.
Iron and Wine – “Such Great Heights”
A stunning acoustic rendition of the electropop single from Postal Service (side project of Death Cab for Cutie’s front man). The melody has a delicate quality fitting for the lyrics, “They will see us waving from such great heights/’Come down now’ they’ll say”. The song remains blissful until the very end, with an instrumental finale akin to settling into a twinkling dusk.
Chappo – “Come Home”
iPod commercials have always been known for catchy songs slightly below the mainstream radar, which is just enough to provide a sense of novelty. “Come Home” is no exception. It has even gone above and beyond to actually reference the gadget in their hook. The infectious chanting and uplifting melody also makes for a definite mood booster.
First Aid Kit – “Emmylou”
The two Swedish sisters name drop the most famous couples of country music (both on stage and off) in a pleasing harmony, “I’ll be your Emmylou and I’ll be your June/If you’ll be my Gram and my Johnny too”. Meanwhile the wistful violin dances like an autumn breeze in the background.
Ingrid Michaelson – “The Way I Am”
The song has long been a favourite in bookstores and coffee shops. It is classic Ingrid; she knows how to sweeten without being cloying. A waltzing drum beat underlines the cascading layers of her silvery voice, “Cause I love the way you say good morning/And you take me the way I am”. Ingrid shows what a great love song should sound like: simple, yet full of conviction.
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