St. Vincent’s DeJamz

Look, it’s week five. Midterms are upon us already and I was unprepared as per usual. Fittingly, I am now always tired. Worst of all, we still have a long five weeks ahead of us. This week, I have compiled a few songs to help us get through this difficult time. Not by keeping us awake (that’s what Monster energy drinks are for) but instead by peacefully easing us into a collective slumber. Whether it be catching a few extra minutes of sleep on the ‘L’ or on the unsettlingly quiet fourth floor of the library, the Blue Demons are getting our sleep this week.

  1. “Heartbeats” – José González

One of my favorite songs of all time, “Heartbeats” was first introduced to me in an episode of “One Tree Hill,” and I hunted down the song title after the first few notes. Perpetually one of the best post-breakup songs to cry too, it’s also slow and relaxing enough to put you right to sleep. González’s soothing voice accompanies simple guitar strums perfectly, making the song just subdued enough to achieve the balance between slow ballad and moving take on love. Regardless of your relationship status, “Heartbeats” is the perfect companion for your next nap.

 

  1. “April Come She Will” – Simon & Garfunkel

In what has become a fitting trend for myself, this too was discovered in the background of one of my favorite shows. Setting the scene for April and Andy’s surprise wedding in “Parks and Recreation,” “April Come She Will” is short but primed for rocking someone to sleep. In just under two minutes, Simon and Garfunkel are able to produce yet another folk classic that is timeless and perfect for times that are happy, sad, hopeful, and luckily for us, sleep-filled.

 

  1. “Rivers and Roads” – The Head and the Heart

“Rivers and Roads” tells the story of a man who misses his friends now that everyone is grown and off living their own lives. Still, he is proud of their success and happy for them despite the loneliness that consumes him. Although the premise is sad, the song is calming and easy to listen to, making for a great song to nap along with. Bonus points for the relatability for college students missing their friends from high school that are all separated now. The only thing better than a nap is a nap filled with nostalgia.

 

  1. “Fare Thee Well (Dink’s Song)” – Oscar Isaac, Marcus Mumford

A remake of the famous folk song “Fare Thee Well,” this rendition from 2013’s “Inside Llewyn Davis” Oscar Isaac and Marcus Mumford (from Mumford & Sons) is classic folk with a more modern sound. Mumford’s voice is soothing and similar to Mumford & Sons unique sound but mixed with Isaac’s voice and simple guitar riffs transforms the song into something entirely new. The film is set in 1961 and their version of “Fare Thee Well” fits the time perfectly. Now, dive into some classic folk to prime your next nap. You won’t regret it.