September for me is a hard month. I, like many others, have been affected by the waning hours of light, which is further amplified by social pandemic disconnect. In fact, 9/10 people I surveyed in a very scientific Instagram poll said they’ve been feeling the same. So! I’ve made a playlist of uptempo songs to combat the seasonal affective blues. I should disclose, that they are up-tempo, not necessarily lyrically UPBEAT (I, after all, played Hozier’s “Cherry Wine” on guitar at a wedding, because I don’t “hear” lyrics.) Consider these songs a SAD lamp for your ears. Here are a few finds I hope you enjoy!
“This Fractured Mind” – Nation of Language
80’s vibes, ahoy! Enjoy a slick bassline and boppy synth.
“Good 2 Yourself” – Life in Sweatpants
Not only does Life in Sweatpants sound like the next 6 months of my future, but they are also the creators of this upbeat synth song that I have been enjoying for a few weeks now.
“Give It Hell” – Yumi Zouma
This Kiwi band from Christchurch is on my list to see live one day, as they’ve got a set list I’d love to hear in person. Their latest is a cheerful, uptempo song that is great to walk around to in the waning hours of daylight.
“Alibi (Alternate Version)” – Geographer
I’m loving Geographer’s latest singles which are catchy AF indie-electronic songs like the one below.
“I’ll Call You Mine” – girl in red
I’ve been jamming on this song hard. When the washed out chorus happens 2 mins in, I feel things.
“Planes in the Sky” – James Vincent McMorrow
While I initially started listening to James Vincent McMorrow for his Bon Iver-esque vibes, he has migrated more to a more cheerful synth song in recent releases. And, I am here for the one below.
“Little Big Things” – Big Thief
This song has a lot of layers and I love it. I find it very reflective, which is something I tend to do in down periods, and always feel better after listening to it.
