The first few weeks of November can be lonely- Halloween is over, Christmas is still several weeks away, and the days are suddenly shorter, colder, and grayer. But I’ve come to enjoy the inevitable November gloom, as I can cozy up with some tea or coffee and listen to some music that matches the solitary atmosphere. This year, I’ve been listening to a few artists in particular: Banks, London Grammar, and Kaleo.
Moody weather goes best with moody music. My summer go-to is Florence and the Machine; but the fast paced, upbeat songs, and the warm (literally) memories that I associate with them make it impossible to listen to past September. Instead, I crave the melodic sound of London Grammar, the hints of R&B from Banks, and the intense blues and folk tracks from Kaleo.
London Grammar is a group of three from London, led by lead singer Hannah Reid and accompanied by Dan Rothman and Dominic ‘Dot’ Major. The piano is the most prominent sound in every song, and the combination of the classical music and the pensive lyrics make their album, If You Wait, perfect for a gray day.
Banks just recently released her second album, The Altar, as a follow up to her first album Goddess. Just like Goddess, the Altar is intense and thoughtful, but contains even more R&B references. While some of the songs are faster paced, they all have a similar fierce quality.
I started listening to Kaleo last month- just in time for November. Their blues and folk influences combined with the deep lyrics and stormy voice of the lead singer match the relentless weather perfectly.
As Thanksgiving is quickly approaching I know I will soon succumb to the familiar cheery tunes of Christmas music. I am looking forward to getting into the holiday spirit, but I’m actively avoiding any premature exposure. For now I am content to listen to the somber, melancholy, and fierce music of Kaleo, Banks, and London Grammar as I make the most of the November gloom. But make no mistake- on November 29th I’ll be jamming to Jingle Bell Rock with a cup of hot chocolate, as festive and cheery as ever.
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2 Comments on "Surviving the November Gloom"
Listen to Mikki Ekko “We Must Be Killers” to enhance the gloomy feeling.
Definitely a good November song- I really liked it! Listening to more of his songs right now, thanks for the recommendation!