First Monday of the new year. First day back at work after 10 days off. The break was so needed, and even though it felt like it sped by, I can feel the effects of the rest and mental break. Ever since I started my new (well not so new now) job, back in July, it’s been non-stop work and stress and steep learning curve and A LOT of anxiety and long hours, etc. It took its toll on me, that’s for sure. But, I am finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, as they say, and can see the real possibility of the work/life balance that is top on my 2022 intentions.

It’s been a good day, so far. Yoga this morning, a chapter read with my first cup of coffee, lots of music playing, and these five songs that are making Monday even better. Hope you enjoy them.

How is Monday treating you? What are you listening to?

Give Me Five…January 3, 2022

Available to listen, and follow along throughout January, on Spotify and YouTube

Song 1: “Can You Get To That” by Funkadelic

“I once had a life,
or rather,
life had me.
I was one among many,
or at least,
I seemed to be.
Well, I read an old quotation in a book just yesterday,
said, ‘gonna reap just what you sow,
the debts you make,
you have to pay.’
Can you get to that?”

I’m still in my 70’s groove. It is definitely one of my start of the new year/start of January vibes. This song, and band, though I do know well. I’ve always loved this track, though I’ve not explored the album completely. I’m going to be spinning it today while I work.

Can you get to that?

There was an Australian series that I got into called Sisters that used a cover of this song as the theme (cover by Frazey Ford). I always wished the show had continued. Maybe it did, but I’ve not seen further episodes available in the US. I especially liked Maria Angelico in it.

Song 2: “I Don’t Know” by Beastie Boys, featuring Miho Hatori

“I don’t know.
Who does know?
There is nowhere to go.”

It’s been a long time since I listened to Beastie Boys and the Hello Nasty album. This feels like another one I need to spin today. I’m really digging this track with Miho Hatori – her voice compliments the song so much.

Do you have a favorite Beastie Boys album?

Song 3: “Safety Dance” by Angel Olsen

“We can dance if we want to.
We can leave your friends behind.
‘Cause your friends don’t dance,
and if they don’t dance,
they’re no friends of mine.”

Oh my stars, I love love love Angel Olsen’s EP Aisles with all her cover versions of 80’s songs. I keep changing which one is my favorite – my first fave was her take on Laura Branigan’s “Gloria”, but right now it’s her moody, darkwave cover of Men Without Hats “Safety Dance”.

The original is a favorite of mine to dance around the house to, a go-to that always cheers me up. It is kitschy and silly and fun. But, Angel makes something very different out of it, and I’m here for it. It’s darker, haunting, a gorgeous.

Hurrah for cover songs!

Song 4: “Garden Song” by Phoebe Bridgers

“I don’t know how,
but I’m taller.
It must be something in the water.
Everything’s growing in our garden.
You don’t have to know that it’s haunted.
The doctor put her hands over my liver.
She told me my resentment’s getting smaller.
No, I’m not afraid of hard work.
I get everything I want.
I have everything I wanted.”

If asked what has helped me get through these pandemic years, since March 2020, one of the biggest things I’d say would be Phoebe Bridgers music. Her songs have been there, playing as a soundtrack during these challenging times. I related to them – still relate to them. They’ve made me feel less alone, less unstable, and understood.

The above lyrics – the line about resentment getting smaller – that one hits me hard today. I’m wishing, hoping, and waiting for the day when I can feel the resentment in me get smaller.

She’s definitely made her way into being one of my all-time favorite artists.

Song 5: “Stay” by Valerie June

“So if you can believe it,
since the day we first met,
I’ve had not one regret.
Darling,
don’t you forget,
so if you can believe it,
times I’s lost,
I’s upset,
I gambled,
thought I’d lost it –
having you in my life was a sure bet.”

Another favorite song/album/artist I discovered last year.

This song is so beautiful. Such a lovely love song.

And the album title? How can I not love an album that is a “prescription for dreamers”?

<dreamy sigh>