The January blues is a plague that affects all of us mortal; no matter where we turn, we seem to be faced with an interminable sense of gloom. However, biding your time until the sun reemerges doesn’t have to be wholly depressing. I find putting a record on and dancing around my bedroom with loved ones or staying cosied up with a book and nice backing track keeps me sane until the sunnier months.
If partying to a great tune keeps you distracted from winter’s icy grip, then I would personally recommend the esteemed El Camino by the two-piece band The Black Keys. Full of brooding funk, song after song on the album provides a sing-along world of escape. Dan Auerbach’s deep, soulful vocals warm up the soul from January’s cruel chill whilst Patrick Carney’s heavy drum beat keeps you dancing on tracks such as “Dead and Gone,” “Gold on the Ceiling,” and “Run Right Back.” Whilst at some points the songs become more heavy and solemn in tone, the album is quick to pick its pace back up and continue with its blues-heavy groove.
Music is a necessary aid within these times, as a form of distraction, reflection and hope.
Another honourable mention for boogie-ing your way through the freeze is the lauded Jamiroquai’s album Synkronized, packed full of infectiously funky tracks. Synkronized’s energy is unceasing. An experimental, futuristic album offering classic funk elements such as the electric piano, wah-wah guitar, and deep bass. Its unceasing energy is gilded in a slick ‘90s production, emulating an updated ‘70s disco tone.
Once you’re done with all of that dancing and the inevitable reality of the season sets back in, comforting albums may be a necessary crutch. For this I would prescribe the incomparable Dusty Springfield’s Dusty in Memphis, Mazzy Star’s Among my Swan, or even Different Class by Pulp for some calming familiarity.
Whether you choose to dance your way through these slower months or hide until the sun makes its return, music is a necessary aid within these times, as a form of distraction, reflection and hope.
