T.S. Eliot, in his poem “The Waste Land,” famously said “April is the cruellest month.” Eliot clearly understood the pre-finals chaos that we’ve all been experiencing. With due dates closing in like a booby trap straight out of Indiana Jones, things can seem hopeless. However, the effectiveness of a good playlist remains undeniable.
Here are a few songs to get you hitting those books without hitting a wall.
“Times to Die” — Car Seat Headrest
When chemistry has you praying for death, let the steady grooves of Car Seat Headrest’s pull you back to earth.
“I Can Change” — LCD Soundsystem
“I can change / I can change / I can change…” You’ll be chanting along with James Murphy’s soaring voice as you reflect on all of the classes you skipped this semester.
“Wraith Pinned to the Mist and Other Games” — Of Montreal
Featuring one of the bounciest bass lines ever, Of Montreal’s whimsical banger is all too relatable this month: “Let’s pretend we don’t exist / let’s pretend we’re in Antarctica.”
“Ivy League” — Alex Lahey
Lahey’s raspy contralto sheds a light on the un-glamorous college experience, proving that you can power through the “B-grade university” slump with a good guitar hook and a little motivation.
“Baby, You’re a Rich Man” — The Beatles
The Beatles certainly know how to build a jam, and the pulse of this song might just compel you to fight your way to a degree. Eventually, the education will pay off and “baby” you’ll be “a rich man, too.”
“The Plan” — Built to Spill
Looking at this month’s schedule, you’ll be angstily belting along with Doug Martsch’s alt-rock complaints. “The plan keeps coming up again,” dammit.
“Be Above It” — Tame Impala
The driving, percussive pace of this number will have your adrenaline going, giving you that last-minute inspiration to crack open those books—or maybe another Red Bull.