Since music is readily available by purchase of a single and oftentimes people expand their libraries through less-than-legal means, buying an entire album is rarely done. Nevertheless, there are some songs that sweep you off of your feet and are kept in the back of your mind for days. Some songs make you want to listen to as much by that artist as you possibly can.
Collegiettes, I had that moment some time a few weeks ago, and I am still in love. I present to you, Barcelona’s freshman album: Absolutes.
Like most good albums, Absolutes has a good mix of upbeat and slower songs. Barcelona tends, at least on this album, to stick to less peppy and more pensive music – music that carries you away on a soft cloud, rather than simply making you dance around. It is quiet, mellow, and almost trance-inducing; far closer to Sigur Ros or a nocturne by Chopin than Ke$ha’s latest hit or one of Beethoven’s symphony. As everything school-related becomes increasingly chaotic and midterms approach, floating away peacefully is a more appealing escape than “Die Young” by Ke$ha.
Since I pride myself on my consistency (at least when it comes to behavior towards new music), I can say I listened to Absolutes for about a week, and I am listening to the album right now. I would very much like to own every song Barcelona has ever done, which I would if I were not a poor college student constantly supporting her favorite bands.
Here is a brief breakdown of the album: pick “It’s About Time” or “Lesser Things,” if you want to skip straight to a faster song. If you would rather a calmer song, try “First Floor People” or “Please Don’t Go.” My personal favorite, and the one that got me hooked, is the piano-backed “Get Up,” which is one of the slower, sadder songs.