Danielle Lewis

Spotlight Editor

Although Los Angeles lacks the gloomy, yet enchanting, weather of winter, residents can still turn to music to set the mood of the season. While winter songs can truly be almost any song depending on how one views the season, I find that the following songs particularly remind me of the aura of winter:

“Song for No One” – Miike Snow

This Swedish trio debuted this song in their self-titled first album. While “Song for No One” is one of the countless breakup songs of our time, it goes beyond the average Taylor Swift rant. Its incorporation of a cheerful synth mask the lyrics that depict loss and sorrow. Despite its mournfully nostalgic lines, it remains a joyful song.

“The World at Large” – Modest Mouse

This calm, yet lighthearted song is part of Modest Mouse’s fourth album, Good News For People Who Like Bad News. “The World at Large” emphasizes the vastness of the world and how it allows us to experience adventure and rebirth. Although quite simple, this song still evokes warmth and hope.

“Jesus, etc.” – Wilco

“Jesus, etc.” is infamous for being prescient of the events of September 11th. The song consists of lyrics such as “tall buildings shake, voices escape” and “skyscrapers are scraping together, your voice is smoking.” Regardless of these uncanny lyrics, this song is about our tendency to amplify our sorrow and the power of love to aid our recovery. The gentle violin and Jeff Tweedy’s slightly strained voice allow this message to be presented tastefully.

“Each Coming Night” – Iron and Wine

Iron and Wine never fails to provide harmony and tenderness. The soft and whispered voice of Samuel Beam takes this calm melody to a new level of peacefulness. Beam sings about past love and the lingering question of if it will be remembered with each coming night.

“New Slang” – The Shins

The Shins have become increasingly popular, especially with the help of “New Slang”’s presence in the film Garden State. The song features an eerie hum, contrasting with the constant light tambourine. James Mercer writes about the simplicity of living in a small town and the inevitable realization during adulthood that the world is imperfect.