Throwback - Three Albums to Listen to When You're Stressed Out

If you're like most people over the age of, I don't know, sixteen, the holidays come with their own unique brand of stress, and even if you're lucky enough not to be one of the many people who find the holidays to be more work than fun, you still have to admit that the expectation to buy and receive gifts, travel to see friends and family, and attend multiple parties is a feeling that you don't normally have to deal with during the majority of the year.

Well, with Thanksgiving next week here in the USA, the holidays are here whether you like it or not, and The Tempo has some recommendations for things to make you feel a bit better if you need a little pick up during your day, week, or month. No, I will not be recommending any Christmas music in this article. The purpose of this list is to forget about everything for a little while. With all that said, give these records a spin next time you feel stressed out.

1. Land of Dreams by Randy Newman

To say I'm hot on this album is a bit of an understatement, and while fans could argue all day about Newman's best work, Land of Dreams would get my vote. Combining SoCal rock and easy listening with Newman's signature cinematic proclivity makes a records that is relaxing at times, sad at others, and hilarious for an unsurprising amount of the time if you're familiar with Newman's body of work. All in all, you'll be tapping your feet and bobbing your head along the whole time. My personal favorites are Dixie Flyer and Four Eyes. This is a great album to pop on through your headphones. Relax, and let Randy take you on a trip from Louisiana to Los Angeles on Land of Dreams.

2. Joy In The Wild Unknown by Ripe

Ripe's first studio album from 2018 has stood the test of time. If 2018 doesn't feel like that long ago to you, you might not need to de-stress with any of the records on this list. Ripe created their signature funky persuasion on this record and cooked up a sound devoted to feeling good. Impressive performances from all involved will leave you wondering how the band came up with these silky smooth riffs more often than not. This is the perfect album to spin in the background while you chill out. Put it on while hanging out with a friend, or listen in bed and sing along to all twelve tracks (bang for your buck here). My personal favorites are Downward (I know I'm not unique here), and Beta Male. Songs like Flipside remind us that it's ok to practice self care. from an interview with Sound of Boston, frontman Robbie Wulfsohn says “one of the pillars of this record is the idea of exploring joy as an emotion of significant weight. To me, the Wild Unknown is that spot just over the hill that looks difficult to get to but potentially has the best view of the horizon on the other side.” What better a sentiment for a de-stresser? Better things are ahead!

3. Live In London by Flight of The Concords

Not too much to say about this one. One of, if not the, greatest musical comedy acts of our time, the New Zealand duo made up of Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie put their entire repertoire on display in this hilarious, thoughtful, and joyful concert which we are lucky to have a recording of. Like most live albums, the sound quality sometimes takes a hit as a result of the space, but the energy of the crowd and the duo's stage presence, which can be felt through any media, more than makes up for the difference. Still not happy? Well it was recorded on video as well and is available on MAX and Apple Tv. Very little video of Flght of the Concords performing exists outside of their TV show of the same name, so this is a real treat for fans and a great place to discover a modern classic for new fans interested in listening to or watching more. Unfortunately, my favorite Flight of the Concords song, Jenny, does not appear on this recording, but other favorites like Robots, Hurt Feelings, and inner City Pressure do. Pop this one on for a movie night full of laughs, or listen in the car to purge negative thoughts before or after work.

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