As the signifiers of autumn begin to manifest before our eyes here on Haverford’s campus, I offer some savory tunes to comfort you during this changing season. This second installment of Sarah’s Playlist reviews five songs that resonated with me this October.
Apartment ~ Young the Giant
Young the Giant’s “Apartment” starts off relaxed and echoic before a blunt drum solo whirls the song into a frenzy of raunchy guitars and rich vocals. Sameer Gadhia’s unblemished voice and effortless vibrato sounds almost too honeyed to fit in with the harsher, more acidic guitar riffs. However, when paired together, these elements complement each other, producing a punchy, yet clean sound that exists somewhere between grunge rock and indie pop. The guitar in the song’s introduction blends nicely with Gadhia’s liberated vocals, and the dynamic chorus adds a nice climax to the song’s emotional build-up. The song ends with a gentle repetition of the beginning of the first verse, which balances out the high-energy chorus and entices you to hit “repeat.”
En Nuit ~ Videoclub
This star-studded single is the creation of French up-and-comers Adèle Castillon and Matthieu Reynaud. The song begins with a fade-in of neon melody, followed by a rounded yet pronounced drum beat that amplifies the song’s youthful spirit. The singers’ tranquil delivery of spoken-word lyrics in the foreground of celestial bells and synthesizers captures the essence of teenage romance: hiding one’s elation behind an aloof demeanor. Starry chords, high-pitched harmonies, and fast-paced lyrics generate a song that is both carefree and controlled. Later, throaty guitar solos layered over the spacey synth keyboard add nuances of alternative rock to this bedroom pop anthem. The charming lyrics, electric tune, and colorful instrumentals give “En Nuit” the feel of a 1982 slumber party. So grab your Walkman and hit play on this Videoclub bop.
Femme Fatale ~ The Velvet Underground & Nico
This pacifying tune by The Velvet Underground entertains with the cadence of a gentle rain shower. The easy melody brought instantly to life by the sweet romance of guitar and tambourine is the perfect edition to an early morning study session. Nico’s distinctive low-pitched voice blends seamlessly into the music, embodying the hum of
a bass guitar as she starts to sing. Although the song has a timid demeanor, the lyrics tell another story. The femme fatale of the title is a shrewd character who toys with men’s hearts and deceives to get what she wants. The song warns one to steer clear of this woman, but the soothing tune seduces the listener like a siren luring sailors.
Then She Appeared ~ XTC
This alternative love ballad could fit right in with today’s indie rock scene. “Then She Appeared” entices its audience with a jangly electric guitar melody, which no doubt inspired groups like Real Estate and Beach Fossils. While the guitar serves as the star of the show, the song also features a sporadic mingling of electronic recorder and click
organ and is supported by soft choral accompaniments and a cutting drum beat. Lead singer Andrew Partridge chews every lyric, producing a stretchy and articulate vocal style not unlike John Flansburgh’s from They Might Be Giants. This produces an unconventionally easygoing mood for the rock/alternative genre. Nonetheless, the song’s cinematic quality and endearing lyrics will draw you in.
Katie Queen of Tennessee ~ The Apache Relay
With the roar of a triumphant orchestra combined with an indie folk spin on the 1950s doo-wop beat, this hit by The Apache Relay surprises and delights its audience. The sweet melody, adorned by the hazy vocals of Michael Ford Jr., will add comfort and ease to any autumn car ride through a drizzle of amber and scarlet leaves. The candied
guitar adds a taste of indie pop that makes this song stand out from their others. The chord progression in the chorus, especially, has a certain charm that evokes a feeling of warmth. Combining the calming essence of Love with their own sprightly spirit, “Katie Queen of Tennessee” is a must-listen-to for fans of indie folk. It is a great tune to
listen to on a fresh afternoon spent with good friends, old or new.
Check back next month for my November Notes! In the meantime, listen to the songs you just read about at the link below:
