12 Most Influential Albums of My Life (Part 2)
Last week, I detailed some of the albums that have had a large impact on my life. This week, I finish up the list with some of my all-time favorites.
Postal Service - Give Up
Anybody who is familiar with this album likely understands why it's on this list. There's a reason that decades later fans are still waiting for a follow-up album. I've always been a big fan of Ben Gibbard’s writing, and this album is so soothing and trance-inducing that the whole thing is over before I even realize it. It’s an album that I can lose myself in every single time. This was a big road trip album for me.
Favorite track: “This Place Is A Prison”
Jimmy Eat World - Clarity
This album essentially defines me in college. It's not the first Jimmy Eat World album that I had, but the album became a road trip anthem of sorts for any trip I went on. It was always the first album in the CD player. From melodic tunes like “Table for Glasses” and “12.23.95” to power anthems like “Blister,” this album ran the gamut, finishing up with the 16-minute “Goodbye Sky Harbor" with its infinite instrumental that's perfect for losing yourself on the road.
Favorite track: “Blister”
Juliana Theory - Emotion is Dead
The Juliana theory has long been one of my favorite bands. Another throwback to college, this album was always a great listening when I just wanted to jam to something high-energy.
Favorite track: “Don’t Push Love Away”
Lauren Daigle - Look Up Child
Even though this album is pretty recent, it's really had a tremendous effect on me. As a person who generally struggles with feelings of inadequacy, the songs on this album are empowering and uplifting. They remind me that I am worth it. The lyrics are raw and cut to the heart of my insecurities. Every time I listen to the album, it stirs up a lot of emotions deep inside of me.
Favorite track: “Still Rolling Stones”
The Rocket Summer - Do You Feel
I don't even know how to put my thoughts about this album into words. I could probably write a whole post about this album. Bryce Avery is incredibly talented in all aspects of music. I came across this album when I was in college, and it has stuck with me ever since. I think I've been to more Rocket Summer concerts than and any other band. My wife and I went on our first date to one of his shows. "So Much Love" was the song that we walked out to at our wedding ceremony. There are just so many memories attached to this album.
Favorite track: “So Much Love” (no-brainer)
Future of Forestry - Twilight
Twilight is just a beautiful album. It's so melodic and cinematic, something that I hear as a soundtrack for life. It's incredibly worshipful and genuine. I love the overall sound of all his stuff. This album was my introduction to Future of Forestry.