As the darkest day of the year, the winter solstice is usually associated with uplifting themes like darkness, cold, and hopelessness.
That’s why I appreciate the song “Winter Solstice” by the extravagantly-named Swiss band Löwenzahnhonig. Where you might expect a vibe of despair and moodiness, instead you find a relaxed contentedness that’s almost enough to make you forget the lack of sunshine.
What makes this a beautiful song:
1. Maybe the vibe comes from the simple melody on the guitar; a melody so laid-back it almost sounds like the guitar itself is strolling along with its hands in its pockets.
2. Maybe the vibe comes from the hi-hat, starting 25 seconds in. Instead of hitting every eighth note as is the standard, it skips along at its own pace, hitting eighth notes sometimes, sixteenths other times.
3. Maybe the vibe comes from the band’s name: German for “Dandelion Honey.” Hard to feel dark or depressed with that sweet, sun-drenched image in your head.
Recommended listening activity:
Napping while wearing sunglasses.