The Scout staff has created a list of its favorite songs to listen to heading into the month of April, along with explanations.
Anaiah Davis:
“WUSYANAME” by Tyler, The Creator (feat. YoungBoy Never Broke Again & Ty Dolla $ign)
Since Tyler, The Creator released the deluxe edition of his 2021 album “Call Me If You Get Lost” last week, original tracks quickly made their way back into my weekly rotation. “WUSYANAME” channels pick-up lines as the rapper makes endless promises in an attempt to impress a woman that he meets on a road trip. The song is short and sweet with a ‘90s-infused melody that also makes it fun and dynamic.
“See Through” by Masati
This heavily underrated artist delivers soothing R&B vocals on this track that brings the deepest emotions to the surface. With effortless harmonies and heartfelt lyrics about coming to terms with the end of a relationship, “See Through” is filled with substance and vulnerability.
Daniel Kerns:
“Early in the Morning” by Peter, Paul and Mary
Originally from 1962, this folk song features a frenetic yet soothing acoustic guitar. Paul provides the main vocals looking for guidance while Peter and Mary harmonize perfectly on gospel-style call and response backing vocals. At just over a brisk minute and a half, “Early in the Morning” works well as a quick pick-me-up at the beginning of the day.
“Twin Peaks Theme – Instrumental” by Angelo Badalamenti
Synth-driven ambience is the only way to describe the intro to the cult TV hit “Twin Peaks.” With a winning mix of striking bass notes and plaintive arpeggios, the late, great Angelo Badalamenti created a haunting and dreamlike melody that stays with the listener long after each episode ends.
Madalyn Mirallegro:
“I know it won’t work (Jimmy Kimmel Live Version)” by Gracie Abrams
I just got into Gracie Abrams’ music and can confidently say that this song will forever be a favorite of mine. The way that she builds up to the chorus and begs the subject of the song to listen to her. The live version on “Jimmy Kimmel” holds so much power and emotion that I can’t help but scream along to the lyrics.
“Meddle About” by Chase Atlantic
After seeing multiple edits with this song, I have fallen back into my Chase Atlantic phase. I have always been a fan of all of their songs but there is something about “Meddle About” that hits different. I love that the intense chords of the guitar are constantly highlighted behind the lyrics that are somehow even more intense.
Matt Lucas:
“GOOD TIME” by Niko Moon
You won’t find a bigger believer in playing certain genres during certain seasons than me. Once the cold begins to fade away and those red chairs begin to litter campus, it’s my time to turn on the country playlist. “GOOD TIME” is a good transitional piece where you get a nice strum and twang while still getting a nice base to get you into the season. Sit around a campfire, hit a couple chords and gather around with friends. Just have a good time with this one.
“Catch A Cold One” by Jake Owen
Looking to relax on a folding chair and get some sun? Well, maybe not yet, but April is the month where temperatures start to hit that perfect 65-75 range and “Catch a Cold One” should be put on repeat to properly celebrate the season of short sleeves and shorts. If you’re of age, relax, forget about all the assignments left to do before the semester ends and treat yourself to a cold one.
Trinity Eaton:
“I Hope to Be Around” by Men I Trust
This song has been on repeat this month because of its soothing and meaningful lyrics about becoming your most authentic self. Like many other Men I Trust songs, “I Hope to Be Around” is soft and airy in a way that feels otherworldly. This song definitely won’t be limited to the month of April.
“Feelings”by Cuco
I recently rediscovered how great Cuco’s music is after listening to some of his songs on YouTube. Most of them are spectacular, but I’ve been enamored with the song “Feelings” this month. The jazz music combined with his slow singing during the chorus gives the song a dreamy and psychedelic vibe.
Lee Lard:
“Eat Your Young” by Hozier
When a teaser of this song was released on TikTok, people were excited for the return of Hozier’s subtle yet sexually charged lyrics. The “Eat Your Young” EP shattered all expectations. The lyrics of this ballad are an exploration of the gluttony of those in power. The title is a reference to the satirical essay “A Modest Proposal” written by Jonathan Swift about the English extermination of the Irish in the 1700s. I’ve been obsessed since this EP’s release, and cannot wait for the rest of this album.
“Labour” by Paris Paloma
This is another song originally released on TikTok. “Labour” is part of a movement that TikTok has labeled “feminine rage” which include writings about the silent rage that the patriarchy builds in women. “Labour” is about the pain of being a wife subjected to a traditional and patriarchal marriage, where she does both the physical labor of homemaking and takes on all of the household’s emotional labor. The song resonates with me and is a very cathartic listen.
Jonathan Michel:
“Texas” by BigXthaPlug
“Texas” is a fun song that blends southern hip-hop with twangy country. A catchy banjo riff mixes with a strong bassline that’s enough to prompt to slow head nod. BigXthaPlug, who’s unsurprisingly from Texas, reps the state by listing off reasons why it’s special, as well as why messing with Texas is a bad idea. The nods to Texas sports teams, like “Shout out to them ‘Boys (Dallas Cowboys) and can’t forget about them (Houston) Texans, I feel like Luka the way I’m ballin…(the Dallas Mavericks’ star player)…” earn extra points from this sports fan. The music video also features a horse wearing a gold chain…enough said.
“Good Feeling” by Flo Rida
Maybe I’m just sticking with songs by artists from warm weather states, or maybe I’m not. Either way, I picked this song because it brings back memories of my childhood, which is fading fast due to graduation approaching quickly. While the song may have been overplayed a decade ago, take a listen to it and ask yourself if artists make music like that anymore…(they don’t, at least in my opinion). It’s perfect for playing with the windows down as summer slowly approaches.
Rodrigo Perez:
“Somebody” by Avenged Sevenfold
After a seven year hiatus, Avenged Sevenfold dropped a new single along with information regarding their eighth studio release. “Somebody” is a song with a non-traditional structure and a really cool stop motion animation music video that fits the song perfectly. Overall, the song sounds more like a classical composition rather than a rock or metal track. The song also includes one of Synyster Gates’ best solos to date which has gotten me very excited for the rest of the record.
“Ego Death” By Polyphia
Polyphia is one of the most obscure bands of the 21st century, with no lead singer and some of the best technical guitar playing out there. The group plays a modern, guitar driven, instrumental type of music, with their full force and creativity on display in “Ego Death.” The cherry on top is guitar legend Steve Vai soloing over some of Polyphia’s best beats to date. If there is a band leading the way for rock and roll music, it’s definitely Polyphia.
Payton Egnew:
“I Know The End” By Phoebe Bridgers
Ever since this song came out, it’s been on repeat. No matter how many times I listen to it, I can’t get enough of it. The way Bridgers perfectly demonstrates her raw emotions through “I Know The End” is something that honestly gives me goosebumps. My favorite part of the song is her scream at the very end that I feel the song wouldn’t be complete without.
“Cabin Fever” by Jaden
Since temperatures are starting to rise, “Cabin Fever” will now be playing until the weather turns cold once again. There’s nothing like listening to this song on a hot summer day in the pool or in a car with your friends. “Cabin Fever” is definitely one of my top summer songs to listen to.
