Records on Repeat

The Messenger asked students about their favorite music released or discovered during quarantine. 

Amelia Rose, freshman:

“I really liked Taylor Swift’s Folklore, and my favorite song would have to be ‘Betty.’ But I would say I found a lot of music over quarantine. I had so much free time to really develop a music aesthetic. My top songs would be ‘Everlong’ by the Foo Fighters, ‘Come As You Are’ by Nirvana and ‘Jane Says’ by Jane’s Addiction.”

Sam Stremlau, sophomore:

“I love the new ‘Nectar’ album by Joji.  ‘Daylight,’ ‘Gimmie Love,’ ‘Run’ and ‘Sanctuary’ are some of my favorites because they showcase the wide range he has to offer. Aside from that, I discovered ‘The Dark Side of the Moon’ album by Pink Floyd. I would highly recommend those wanting to experience the extreme limits of music to give it a listen. The album isn’t simply a collection of songs. It’s an intricate story about what gives life its meaning detailed in parts ‘A’ and ‘B’. The ‘A’ side being the metaphorical aspects, and the “B” side being more focused on the physical aspects. I never got the whole Pink Floyd thing before, but I’m glad I didn’t knock it before I heard it.”

Liv Kalemis, junior:

“I’ve really been enjoying ‘Dreamland’ by COIN lately. My favorite songs would have to be ‘Cemetery,’ ‘Valentine’ and ‘Youuu.’ Also, I got really into the band, Vampire Weekend, over quarantine. Music means a lot to me, mostly because it’s a way to feel different emotions through sound.” 

Quentin Williams, senior:

“My favorite album from quarantine was ‘Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon’ by Pop Smoke. I like the beats behind it, and I always listen to it. Especially when I’m driving, because it keeps me focused and is good to vibe to.”

Dr. Nezar El-Ruwie, Psychiatrist at the Department of Mental Health, Missouri:

“Music is very important. It’s been used as a tool for psychological therapy. So, music is a very essential component in helping treat depression, anxiety, and decreasing stress. So, using music is really helpful as a modality of treatment, just like pet therapy and dog therapy. Music therapy is also one of the tools that I use. We recommend that all of the time to help students, to help patients, and clients. So, number one, students can use any music they enjoy of course. Music is very relaxing and de-stressing. It’s highly recommended to listen to cheerful and upbeat music. Music itself stimulates the brain. It affects your auditory, visual, and tactile senses. People can dance, sing along, or even use instruments. These tools can help with the stressful time and environment that we are in.”