Winter Playlist

Sharing some mood music with my fellow Stackers

Chris B. Writes and I were first introduced when he posted a Fall playlist. I commented on it and it started an hours long conversation about music that we loved from the 90s and now.

Chris was kind enough to add a song I sent him to his Fall list and, having just released his Winter list, decided to carry on tradition and include one of my picks on that list, too.

I am all for reciprocity so, in true copycat fashion, I have created my own Winter playlist here and rounded it off with a pick from Chris’ list.

Here’s the Spotify link and below, my commentary for each track. I hope you find something you like and would really love it if you let me know.

Bloodshot Eyes by Trampled By Turtles – These guys are from Duluth, where Winter means business. Also, I spent many nights on my apartment balcony trying to play this song on my guitar in the cold of December 2011. “I wrote some songs – They were shitty as hell – Only works when I’m broken, four inches from dying – and at my best.” Love those lyrics.

The Curse – Agnes Obel – Winter always makes me think of turning inward, retreating from the outside world. This song turns inward and goes way, way back. All the way to our beginnings and the ancient symbols that reside in our DNA and perpetuate our behaviors. It also sounds wintery to me.

Sagres by The Tallest Man on Earth – Kristian Mattson is from Sweden and, because I’m quite simple, Sweden makes me think of the cold and the cold makes me think of Winter. This song is one of my all-time favorites. Cold places seem to churn out poets.

Shake the Frost by Tyler Childers – Childers is a beautiful warbler from the mountains of Kentucky and a poet, to be sure. Always full of emotion, his music moves me, and this one is a great addition to any Winter playlist.

Joey by Concrete Blonde – This one always takes me back to winter nights with cigarettes and leather jackets. Had to add it.

Train Dreams by Nick Cave – The movie this was written for is a recent experience of mine. The Universe wanted me to know this song (see a note I posted previously). If you haven’t seen the movie, give it a watch and let me know what you think.

Four by Sleeping At Last – This guy writes songs for all kinds of things, including the Enneagram. This one is for my Enneagram number. Introspective, and touching on the existential, it is a perfect Winter song.

Better Than by Lake Street Drive – Slow, smooth, sexy. I see bare skin and a glass of Bourbon by firelight.

Save It For Later by Eddie Vedder – This is a cover of an old favorite. I love it slowed and stripped down, delivered with Eddie’s signature croon. It matches the quiet brooding of the season to me.

Handle With Care by Traveling Wilburys – Taken from Chris B.’s list, this is also a favorite of mine and lends some lift to my otherwise rather heavy playlist.

Happy Winter!