Spring break is almost upon us, which means paralyzing distress for some and a much-needed, relaxing break for others. Some may even have the contradictory experience of feeling both. Trust me, I understand. Regardless of how you are feeling or what you are doing, however, there is a way to make your break more pleasurable. You guessed it – music. So whether you are scheduled to interview for your dream job, swim with the dolphins or do something in between, there’s a musical sidekick to keep your mind off of your recently completed midterms or maybe your gasp upcoming graduation.
Activity: Ole Spring Relief OSR
Musical counterpart: “To Ohio” by The Low Anthem
Okay, so I know OSR is not going to Ohio, but regardless of destination, “To Ohio” is the ultimate chill road trip song. Don’t get me wrong, there is definitely a time to blast Macklemore or Nicki Minaj through the car and yell along, chucking up deuces at passing semis, but there comes a time on every long drive when you just want to lean back and take it all in.
Activity: Twiddling your thumbs at home
Musical counterpart: “#SELFIE” by The Chainsmokers
Don’t try to tell me you won’t say or think a single one of the following while you are sitting at home with your high school friends, trying to look like you’re having a kickin’ spring break: “Can you guys help me pick a filter?”; “I wanna look tan”; “What should my caption be? I want it to be clever”; “I only got ten likes in the last five minutes.” Instagram, Twitter and Facebook don’t lie – the truth will come out.
Activity: Partying anywhere but here
Musical counterpart: “Hey Now” by Martin Solveig & The Cataracs feat. Kyle
With its irresistible beat and fun lyrics, it is easy to jam out to this song’s happy vacation sound. Part of the chorus is “We’re the kings of the playground,” which is precisely how I think anyone on vacation should approach their time off. You are the kings of the playground, and you had better enjoy that title while it lasts, my friends. Party on.
Activity: Job or graduate school interviews
Musical counterpart: “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons
Whether you’re trying to pump yourself up for an upcoming interview or keep your spirits high while waiting to hear back, this song will keep you feeling on top of the world. Nothing can hurt you while you are on the musical drug that is Imagine Dragons. Just hold your head high and try not to check your Gmail every six minutes.
Activity: Lounging on the beach a.k.a. being hated on by those who can’t
Musical counterpart: “Tipsy in the Sun” by The White Panda
A fun mash-up of Weezer’s “Island in the Sun” and J-Kwon’s “Tipsy,” this song will keep you bobbing your head behind your wayfarers while you casually sip on whatever delicious cocktail your beautiful, all-inclusive resort has to offer. What? No, I’m not spiteful. Not even a little bit…
Activity: A culturally stimulating family or school vacation
Musical counterpart: “Keep Together” by Hunter Hunted
Hunter Hunted is an indie-rock band with a very happy, relaxed sound, and this song in particular has been featured in “Vampire Diaries” among other shows. These guys are grabbing attention nationwide, so keep your ears and eyes open. I’m a little biased because not only is this the category I fall into, but Hunter Hunted is also my favorite band on the rise. Spoiler alert: They are coming to Minneapolis next month with twenty one pilots and you, dear reader, are going to hear all about it. Get excited.
Activity: Staying on campus
Musical counterpart: “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” from the movie “Frozen”
Honestly, I haven’t seen “Frozen,” but I have heard this song countless times. Have you? Let me tell you some of the lyrics: “Do you wanna build a snowman? / Or ride our bikes around the halls? / I think some company is overdue, / I’ve started talking to the pictures on the walls.” You are going to be stuck at school in Minnesota. While I am sure the scholars on the walls of Rolvaag would enjoy the company, think about getting up and out and doing something – although we in ResLife do frown upon hall sports, so maybe not that.
Now that you are full of musical ideas, hit up your favorite music site or software. Whatever you’re doing this spring break, don’t forget to jam out a little – you deserve it.
christeg@stolaf.edu
