Congrats! We’ve reached the last quarter of the uni year. We’re at the point in the Rocky montage where he’s jumping up the last set of stairs. We’re at the bit in Princess Diaries transformation where they’re plucking Mia’s eyebrows. We’re cosplaying Gemma Chan eyeing the door at the Don’t Worry Darling Venice premiere.
Whatever state your schedule, laptop organisation, and bedroom are in, you’ve reached the last push of the year. Hopefully you’ve enjoyed some time off in the break, and are feeling a sense of optimism about what’s to come. These tracks, all by artists based in Tāmaki Makaurau, or wider Aotearoa are a good boost to get you to the end. A few even have real life gigs happening in the city, for a dance-your-stress-away night.
My Brain Is A Vacant Space | Hans Pucket
Okay, the title might seem a little defeatist, but this track from Hans Pucket is a toe-tapping bop. The groovy song, which is the first single off their upcoming album No Drama, explores feelings of social anxiety, and really speaks to feeling drained and a bit out of it. It’s a nice pat on the shoulder for the general essay writing vibes.
Don’t Go Back | Marlon Williams
This disco-y new track from Marlon Williams is perfect for a stress-free dance break. The lyrics attempt to lure the listener; Don’t go back to the party. You’ll need someone to tell you that, because it’s all you’ll want to do after looking at that Canvas calendar.
Chuck it in the trash | Erny Belle
This beautifully melodic, slow paced song from Erny Belle’s debut album Venus Is Home is a staple for late night listening. Its slightly cynical title doesn’t convey the sweetness of the track, which seems to imagine starting over in a hopeful tone. It’s relaxing, and bittersweet, and strikes such a unique mood—one you’ll revel in after listening.
Break! | Fazerdaze
That’s right! Break! Take a minute! As those frustrations start to boil, Fazerdaze’s newest single is there to let you have a bit of a moment. It’s also got a reassuring note to it—it’s all about how things should break apart, so you can stop pretending and live out your truth.
Dumb For My Age | Dateline
This indie pop track, which gives the Dateline album its name, is all about feeling like a bit of an imposter, a bit out of your depth. If you’re really behind on readings, and trying to ramble your way through a 50% assignment, Dumb For My Age is going to ring a little too true.
Knees Deep | The Beths
The music video for this song has the band members skipping practice to bungy jump off the Harbour Bridge. The track is all about being brave and finding the fun in facing a fear. It’s pretty victorious in sentiment, making it the perfect track to wrap up the semester to—load it up on the playlist, and then jump around and get silly to it once you conquer the next six weeks. Craccum believes in you!
