The way we all consume music nowadays (says Granny Holly) means that the days of ‘having to’ listen to the whole album just to get to your favourite song are long gone. In many ways, this is a wonderful thing because we can be more choosy and listen to the individual songs that we really love, but it does mean that it takes some doing to fall in love with an album and get the full experience that the artist sets out to give you. Consequently, I have been trying to make a conscious effort to really listen to whole albums and you know what, I have been really enjoying it.
Today I have picked out just a few of my recent favourite ‘whole’ albums to share with you and I can’t wait to tell you all about them.
Restless Minds by Ward Thomas
The album that never fails to bring a smile to my face, ‘Restless Minds’ really does have a song for every mood and I’m not ashamed to say that it has been my ‘Kitchen Dancing’ album of choice for several months now. Those harmonies, yes please!
Rocketman by Elton John & Taron Egerton
A film made by its music and the musician whose story it surrounds, the soundtrack of Rocketman was bound to be a winner. New arrangements of some of the most classic Elton songs, and Taron Egerton’s brilliant voice make this album a thing of beauty. My favourite song is probably ‘The Bitch is Back’, or maybe ‘Tiny Dancer’ – I can never get that song out of my head. A stunning album to accompany one of the best films I have seen this year.
Father of the Bride by Vampire Weekend
Not only does this album have a collaboration with Danielle Haim – yes from THE Haim (!) – it is the ultimate summer chill-out album. I have been playing this on sunny days in the garden and it has been bliss. Highly recommend for all the summer vibes.
A Star is Born Soundtrack by Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper
Another film soundtrack, and actually my favourite of the two – the soundtrack to A Star is Born is incredible. The power and emotion behind the songs is a testament to Lady Gaga’s talent and the film. We are singing ‘Shallow’ at choir and I don’t think I’m ever going to be able to stop singing it because it is just SO good. My other favourites are ‘Music to My Eyes’ & ‘I Don’t Know What Love Is’. Wow, just wow.
High As Hope by Florence & The Machine
This album just had to be included because it has been my go-to album since it was released and is definitely one of my favourites of all time – a true masterpiece. For more on Florence, check out my post all about the stunning night that I saw her at the O2 Arena.
I have loved trying to listen to whole albums properly and definitely think it is a better way to connect with an artist’s music than just listening to random songs. What are you listening to on repeat at the moment, do you ever listen to whole albums?
