As syllabus week winds down and the real work of the semester begins, now is the perfect time to find some of the most chill songs to relax to as long summer days transition into busy fall schedules. Here are some of wonderfully mellow, meditative tracks to help you enjoy some peaceful moments in the midst of the beginning of school. Changing from a relaxing summer to a frenetic semester might seem a daunting task, but these songs will help you get back into the swing of things. Halftime presents the Weekly List: Syllabus Week.
- “22 (OVER S∞∞N)” – Bon Iver
With a new record on the way, Bon Iver’s single “22 (OVER S∞∞N)” reveals a new sound for the artist. “22 (OVER S∞∞N)” blends Bon Iver’s emotional lyrics with electronic beats and jazz features that result in a more dynamic track than his traditional raw acoustic sound we know and love.
- “Open Arms” – RKCB, Demo Taped
In contrast to Bon Iver’s darker emotional side, “Open Arms” is a catchy, lighthearted tune is the perfect track to listen to while walking in between classes, studying, or spending a relaxing night in with friends.
- “Mayflies” – Benjamin Francis Leftwich
There may be nothing more soothing than Leftwich’s angelic voice. “Mayflies,” a track off his recent record “After the Rain,” leaves the listener floating along in the transitional period from summer to fall.
- “I Need A Forest Fire” – James Blake, Bon Iver
James Blake and Bon Iver’s collaboration on this song is almost flawless; a perfect combination of each artist’s soulful vibes. Neither artist overshadows the other, but rather they work in perfect harmony to produce a song that is both introspective and therapeutic.
- “Paper Knees” – The Careful Ones
A hidden gem I found while digging deep into Spotify, “Paper Knees” is a calm tune that is an effortless blend of raw acoustics and peaceful vocals, optimal for relaxation while one gets back into the swing of the school year.
- “Hærra” – Ásgeir
Hailing from Iceland, Ásgeir released all of the tracks from his 2013 album, “In the Silence,” in both English and Icelandic. “Hærra” (or “Higher” in English), features delicate vocals and a steady electronic backing; resulting in a wonderfully calm track that will be perfect for reading introductions and your first few hours in Lau.
- “Get Low” – James Vincent McMorrow
Finally, McMorrow’s recent album “We Move” boasts a series of relaxing, effortlessly cool tracks. “Get Low” is an effortlessly soulful track, marking McMorrow’s introduction into R&B and is the perfect tune for de-stressing after a seemingly endless week.
