Just press play

Laura Lofgren

Editor’s Note: In a continuous effort to bring you, the reader, fun pieces you can use, we’ve decided to include a playlist from a different staff member each week. We all have different music tastes, and we’re hoping some of our selections might just make their way onto your iPod.

“One Chance” by Modest Mouse

Not the most memorable on Modest Mouse’s album, “Good News for People Who Love Bad News.” The song has a slight pessimistic undertone. “I’m just a box in a cage” refers to life and how it’s predetermined. You’re stuck no matter what you do, but it shows as long as you have friends and family, you might be OK.

“Penelope” by Pinback

Although Pinback has a lot of great songs, this one has hits close to home for anyone who has a pet fish. It’s about a goldfish named Penelope who is loved very much, but sadly deceased. The song is a beautiful tribute to not just a pet, but a friend.

“Lazy Eye” by Silversun Pickups

Full of pretty contradictions, Silversun Pickups wrote a love song of sorts built with anticipation and clarity. Just listen to the lyrics and understand that “it’s so fun to relate.”

“Your Hand In Mine” by Explosions in the Sky

An ambient production, this instrumental by Explosions in the Sky has the capability of bringing back old memories and starting new ones. The flow of music is reminiscent to the feeling of falling in love with someone.

“I Can Barely Breathe” by Manchester Orchestra

“I Can Barely Breathe” takes the listener through the degradation of appreciation for the singer. His lover increasingly becomes distant until he finally asks the question, “If you knew I was dying would it change you?” Depressing, but wonderful to listen to at the same time.

“Compromise of 1984” by Chiodos

Craig Owens belts out the song, which was originally recorded under the name The Chiodos Bros. Owens said he knows it’s an “emo” song because he’s questioning his relevance in the world, but he’s singing it anyway because he can. Full of quirky musical twists and screaming outbursts, it’s a great song from the band’s first album.

“Tell Tale Heart” by New Found Glory

Referring to Edgar Allan Poe’s “Tell Tale Heart,” New Found Glory wants to discover love for themselves as opposed to being told what it is. A catchy, upbeat ballad, it’s sure to get some headbanging approval.

“I Am Waves” by Emarosa

Intensity comes to mind when listening to this power, hardcore-screamo song by Emarosa. If that style of music isn’t appealing, at least take a peek at the lyrics. Nicely crafted, they express a need to get back up and try again, despite the odds or the rejections of a loved one.