Over one month into the school year and, whether you’re a freshman or a senior, the pressure is likely starting to build up. Taking helpful study breaks can seem difficult, especially with the accessibility of resorting to social media in our free time. There are many other options out there, like reading, yoga, or exercise, but let’s face it: unless you already do these, it takes time to regularly fit those activities into your lifestyle. So here’s a simpler suggestion—listen to music. Whether you need to relax, get pumped, or simply escape, there’s a song for you. Here are five new releases that can get you through some of the more difficult moments of a typical weekday at school.
3) Getting pumped in the afternoons
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| Photo from GoldenPlec |
1) Sleepy morning bus rides
“Shine” by Benjamin Francis Leftwich
While this song wasn’t released recently, the British artist performed a beautiful live rendition of his song at the Concrete & Grass music festival in Shanghai this month. Its acoustic vibe is perfectly soothing for those slower mornings, with lyrics promising simpler, better days. You can also check out the more upbeat Kygo remix if that’s more your speed.
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| Photo from DIY Mag |
2) Pre-test jitters
“Poplar St” by Glass Animals
This song is about a boy’s complicated relationship with an older woman (interestingly, each track on the album How to Be A Human Being corresponds to a character on its cover). However, the lyrical content is irrelevant in this case: when stress levels are riding high before a test, the best thing you can do is relax by taking your mind elsewhere for a moment. With its excellent opening riff and soothing delivery of an intriguing story, this song does just that.
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| Photo from Energy941 |
“The Greatest” by Sia
Whether you’ve got exciting plans or just need to get in the right mindset for studying, Sia never fails to lift spirits. Her latest single continues her typical themes of empowerment and outlasting challenges, with an upbeat melody to match that message. It’s the perfect song for when the pressure of “stress-AS” is wearing you down. The music video is a powerful tribute to the victims of the Orlando nightclub shooting. Look out for Kendrick Lamar’s appearance at the bridge.
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| Photo from Wenner Media |
4) Study break
“Good Grief” by Bastille
Need a quick break before going back to it? Any old favorite will work, but the new pop charts can be a fun and reliable distraction. This single is the first proper comeback from Bastille since the album that produced “Pompeii,” giving off more or less of the same lively energy. Don't get thrown off by the grim subject matter—the song’s easygoing, rhythmic style makes it ideal for escaping the frustrations schoolwork can bring.
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| Photo from XXLMag |
5) Getting to sleep
“Ivy” by Frank Ocean
A noteworthy track off Ocean’s much-anticipated Blonde, the song is an emotional yet easy listen for when insomnia strikes. Its catchy opening line will draw your attention and take your mind off whatever was keeping you up, telling more of Ocean’s story four years after his debut LP, while the soft melody complements his raw voice perfectly. Off your screens and just listen to get the full experience.
What do you think? Contact us and let us know what kind of music you think SAS students want to hear about.
Ana Ghiban
Ana Ghiban
