In recent months, anxieties surrounding the stress of college, the political climate, and the overall responsibilities involved with being an adult have been especially overwhelming. Here are seven feel-good albums that make me feel like the world is a little less scary.
.Arcade Fire – Funeral
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Written during a time when several of the band members had recently lost members of their family – hence the title – the album produced five singles. Though Funeral is over a decade old, this uplifting collection of indie rock songs remains a modern classic through its heartfelt, audacious anthems and mesmerizing strings.Â
Song Recommendations: 4 “Neighborhood #3 (Power Out)” 8 “Haiti”
The Drums – Encyclopedia
Encyclopedia is the third studio album released by Jonny Pierce and Jacob Graham as a duo. The American indie pop band surprised their audience with this experimental album, and quite frankly, the catchy, surf-rock riffs make the album exceptional.
Song Recommendations: 2 “I Can’t Pretend” 4 “Kiss Me Again”
Vampire Weekend – Contra
The 2010 indie rock album Contra is a beloved classic amongst many critics. The album was recognized as one of The 100 Best Albums of the Decade So Far by Pitchfork in 2014, and for good reason.
Song Recommendations: 2 “White Sky” 9 “Diplomat’s Son”
Chance The Rapper – Acid Rap
Acid Rap is the second official mixtape released in 2013 by emerging artist Chance The Rapper as a free digital download. Since garnering over one million downloads since, there is no questioning the happiness this album has brought to listeners.
Song Recommendations: 6 “Everybody’s Something (ft. Saba & BJ The Chicago Kid) 1” 8. “Favorite Song (ft. Childish Gambino)” Â
Spoon – They Want My Soul
They Want My Soul is the eighth studio album released in 2014 by American indie rock band Spoon. The album is a familiar continuation of the band’s previous work, yet still pulls at new and refreshing sounds, making it a beautiful compilation of music.
Song Recommendations: 2 “Inside Out” 4 “Do You” 9 “Let Me Be Mine”
Alabama Shakes – Sound & Color
Filled with powerful, magnificent ballads and funky tones, Sound & Color is the second studio album released in 2015 by the American rock band Alabama Shakes.Â
Song Recommendations: 5 “Gimme All Your Love” 7 “Guess Who”
Leon Bridges – Coming Home
Coming Home is the debut studio album released in 2015 by American gospel and soul singer Leon Bridges. This palpably soulful album feels traditional and emotional, making this one of the most breathtaking, impressive albums to listen to.
Song Recommendations: 4 “Smooth Sailin’” 10 “River”