4 albums that saved my life

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This May marks Mental Health Awareness Month. It used to be that some believed dealing with mental health issues signified personal weakness, but fortunately, we now understand otherwise.

Similar to many others, I’ve experienced bouts of depression and unhappiness. For me, it’s a clinical issue. Tragically, both my father and grandfather ended their lives. I have no desire to repeat their actions, but acknowledging this fact doesn’t make it any less challenging. At times, life can feel overwhelming, leaving one feeling isolated and unheard. It is normal to experience these feelings.

One of our blessings lies within the realm of music. It has the power to guide us to realms we hadn’t realized were missing in our lives. Much like a captivating movie, a few hours of beautiful music can provide the comfort we require precisely when we need it most.

4 albums I literally couldn’t have lived without

While the following doesn’t intend to belittle feelings of hopelessness, it’s important to note that we can still find solace in creations made by others, even when their origins remain unknown. This connection can serve as a beacon, helping us navigate through challenging times.

Van Morrison – Moondance

Morrison currently holds some unconventional beliefs, however, these opinions don’t stem from his musical talent. It’s his music that truly shines. The back-to-back albums, specifically “Astral Weeks” and “Moondance“, are part of the greatest two-album sequences in music history. Of these two, “Moondance” is the more approachable one for listeners.

The opening track, “And It Stones Me,” offers a journey of tranquility that can last however long you desire. However, the standout number on this album is undoubtedly “Into the Mystic.” This song guides you to unexplored emotional depths within yourself.

As a gamer, I can vouch for this collection – it’s more than just a soundtrack, it’s a festive anthem. When the world around feels like it’s spiraling out of control, this album could be your much-needed salvation.

Tom Waits – Beautiful Maladies

There are indeed other noteworthy albums by Tom Waits. This compilation is filled with fantastic tracks, yet devoted fans would prefer his studio releases. For me, the standout aspect of this album is its seamless transition between various musical styles.

Instead of focusing on concentration, it was more about not concentrating. After “Johnsburg, Illinois,” came “Way Down in the Hole.” Both are fantastic songs that deserve to be listened to, and the transition between them created a gap. Sometimes, we don’t want to think, but rather, we just want to exist.

Some tracks in this collection have a more somber tone, so please be mindful while listening. However, Waits intends for his art to inspire and make the overall experience rewarding, making it worth your time to listen to every track all the way through.

Boo Radleys – Wake Up!

Among the works of The Boo Radleys, Wake Up! stands out as an album that might resonate with listeners today. Although it appears to be a tribute to ’60s pop music, its songs are skillfully constructed in a way that transcends time. On the other hand, C’Mon Kids is designed to be a more complex listening experience, while Wake Up! offers a simpler, easier approach.

What stands out is that several songs are catchy enough for you to find yourself humming or singing along, often without fully realizing why.

Manic Street Preachers – This is My Truth Tell Me Yours

After the disappearance of founding member Richey Edwards, two albums later, the Manics displayed a newfound maturity that was less evident in their earlier works. While “Truth” may not surpass “The Holy Bible,” it doesn’t have to. The self-awareness in their despair provides solace for listeners as they navigate their own struggles.

The tracks carry a stronger political than personal emotional tone, yet this simplicity aids in empathizing with their struggle. Throughout the album, you’ll experience anger and sorrow. Just like remarkable music does, it brings solace to being human.

The songs have a heavier political slant compared to personal emotions, but this clarity helps us understand their predicament. At various points on the album, you’ll find feelings of rage and sorrow. As with all great music, it offers comfort in our shared humanity.

Music, being an artistic expression, has a unique charm that often leaves us puzzled about why we adore it so much. Yet, the reason remains elusive. What we do know is that music holds immense significance for us, sustaining our spirit even when we doubt our will to live.

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2025-05-24 13:00