Albums to listen to during lockdown
Sitting here in the sun on a…Tuesday? Well whatever day it is, it’s nice enough to sit out and I thought about the music I’ve been listening to recently. Not all of it’s positive and not all of it’s my favourite, however it’s been getting me through the days so I thought I’d share.
The list is in no particular order, it’s just a collection of a few albums I’ve had on shuffle during different times throughout this lockdown period, all being played with different moods.
5am – Amber Run
This has been one of my favourite albums since its release a few years ago, five years to be exact. I just love the way the album can send me to sleep without much effort, and not many albums can do that. The songs are just so mellow and so easy on the ears. I think you’d struggle to find anyone who didn’t like it.
Fine Line – Harry Styles
As a massive fan of One Direction and more specifically Harry Styles, I was obsessed with his last self-titled album. However, when this album was released back in December 2019, I listened to it nonstop on the day of its release in my hungover state, sat on my bed in halls of residence. All round it’s a brilliant album and is a credit to Harry and his writing skills, showcasing just how much of an all-rounder he is when it comes to music. I would recommend Fine Line to anyone who likes music, simply because there’s a bit of everything in its content.
A Head Full of Dreams – Coldplay
If you’re looking for positivity, this album is it. Even with the slow songs and sad melodies, the lyrics are so uplifting and really make you appreciate the world and everything you have. The album as a whole is about loving life and making the most of a bad situation, so it’s the perfect culmination of positive messages that help get you through each long day. Very deep.
1 (Remastered) – The Beatles
To me, this album is a no brainer to listen to at any time, whether it be on your way to work or on your way to the airport. 1 is a classic album that’s been around for multiple decades, providing simple tunes yet iconic songs from one of the biggest bands to ever exist. Maybe it’s my scouse connections, but I always have a soft spot for this album and the songs on it, as you could play them anywhere and people would sing along.
Future Nostalgia – Dua Lipa
This is an album I’m currently getting through, however I thought I’d include a new release. From the songs I’ve heard so far, it sounds like Lipa has gone for an old-school feel with new influences, hence the title of the record. She has kept her funky style of music the same as her previous songs and it’s a good one to listen to when doing tasks around the house, maybe even TikToks as well…
Youth is Only Ever Fun in Retrospect – Sundara Karma
If you’re into multiple genres like I am, this album is another good one to have blasting through the speaker whilst stuck in the house. Or dancing in the shower. It includes many lively songs which have that unique Sundara style, adding a bit of life to the eeriness of the isolation. I would also heavily recommend this album for when you’re doing your one bit of exercise a day.
21 – Adele
I don’t think I have to explain what mood I’d be in to play this but I will explain why I chose it. When the quarantine gets too much or you just fancy a good cry, grab the Kleenex and play this album. It’s also good if you’ve been left behind on the weekly shop and have the house to yourself to blast it out of the speaker, just saying. We all have those up and down days and who knows, maybe Adele is there to solve all your issues. Hopes And Fears – Keane
Despite this album coming out sixteen years ago, it still remains one of my favourites. Keane have such a unique piano-based sound that makes you realise it’s them within thirty seconds of hearing a song, especially the sounds heard on this album. It’s a mixture of happy and sad melodies, making the record so varied and original. I would highly recommend Keane and any of their albums, most of all this one!
That’s The Spirit – Bring Me The Horizon
In my opinion, the decision to include this album is similar to that of Sundara Karma’s in the sense that they’re both lively albums. However, the meanings and messaged in these songs come across as being a lot deeper and powerful, mainly due to the genre of the music. This album is very good for when you’re sad or angry and need to blast out some music to scream along to. Trust me.
Out of the Blue – ELO
Last but not least, this album by Electric Light Orchestra contains some absolutely brilliant songs, all following their own unique style and sound. These iconic songs from the 70s have often been repeated or sampled by modern day songs, finding their way into current music and making this album relevant. I would recommend listening to it when you’re having a positive day and just need to jam out to a few 70s songs!
