From early morning to late nights, between classes, work, and everything in between that keeps us busy, music helps set the pace for the week. This week, the Talon staff shares the songs getting us through it. A special look into a playlist of the tracks we’ve been listening to on repeat as we make our way through busy schedules.
Busy weeks need good music. Here are the songs the Talon has on repeat🎧
“Going To Hell” by The Pretty Reckless
Picked by: Kapri Branham, Editor in Chief
Released in 2014 on their album with the same name, Kapri loves The Pretty Reckless’s combined rock-and-grunge sound. Lead singer Taylor Momsen gives the ultimate witchy vibes, perfect for the season of fall that is home to the best holiday ever, Halloween. If you like any sort of rock music, The Pretty Reckless might be right up your alley, and “Going To Hell” is one of their most listened-to songs on Spotify, loved by fans.
Picked by: Cassie Schatz, Managing Editor
“Leaves” by Miguel, released in 2015 on his album Wildheart, is the perfect slow song. It’s sad, but not in the dramatic sense of a piano playing in the back. It’s mellow, smooth, and throughout the song, there is a soft beat that makes the song feel calm, perfect for cold fall mornings. Miguel uses the whole idea of California not having real seasons to talk about a breakup he never saw coming, which makes the song feel bittersweet. If you like mellow songs that are emotional without being dramatic, this one fits perfectly.
Picked by: Celine Morones, Social Media Manager
“Perfect Storm” by Inhaler, released in 2023 on the band’s second album Cuts and Bruises, is Social Media Manager Celine’s ideal listen, especially on chilly, rainy days. Inhaler, the Dublin-based indie rock/pop band, is known for their energetic performances, strong instrumental vibes, and lyrics about coming-of-age. Celine describes it as “a slightly emotional track with soft, mellow tones and uplifting instrumentals that create a rich, atmospheric indie-rock feel.” “It also makes a perfect driving song or a late-night listen session,” Celine says. Similar artists with the same vibe would be The Strokes and Arctic Monkeys.
Picked by: Ryan Nava, Secretary
“Sushi” by FKA twigs comes off her most recent project, EUSEXUA Afterglow, released this November. Though it’s not a conventionally cozy Fall song, Talon Secretary Ryan is geared towards the longer nights the Fall season brings. After all, longer nights equate to more time to go out, right? “Sushi” is a delicious electronic/house/ballroom experience. “When I first heard this song, I instantly fell in love with it. Like it grabbed me by the hand, put a rack in my bank account, and took me to the club.” Ryan draws comparisons to Beyonce’s track “PURE/HONEY” off her 2022 album, RENAISSANCE, for its ballroom and club influence. “This song is ideal to get your heart rate going. Play it at the gym, the party, anywhere you need an instant confidence boost,” Ryan says.
“Have You Seen Me?” – Nicole Dollanganger
Picked by: Allie Hart, writer
“Have You Seen Me?” By Nicole Dollanganger is a previously unreleased song from 2017 that was recently added to streaming platforms and to the Heart Shaped Bed album as a bonus track, as part of the limited-edition Heart Shaped Bed vinyl release. This song perfectly encapsulates everything Dollanganger is as an artist. Singing about dark topics and bringing light to the taboo. This song was based on the true story of Denise Huber, who was kidnapped and held captive by John Famalaro for years. The chilling lyrics and heavy instrumentals make this song both horrifying and captivating to listen to. For those who are fans of artists such as Ethel Cain, this song is a must-listen.
“Meet Me in the Woods” – Lord Huron
Picked by: Amber Sollami, ICC Rep/Photographer
“The Wreckage” – Silversun Pickups
Picked by: Dr. Michele Weber, Advisor
The Silversun Pickups are releasing a new album called Tenterhooks on February 6th. The album is an anxious, emotionally charged, and unapologetic collection of ten tracks appropriate for the times, yet as timeless as anything they’ve done. Front-man of SSPU Brian Auber said, “To me, it’s an impatient, apprehensive, and more aggressive album.” The seventh studio effort from the “Panic Switch” outfit, and their first since 2022’s Physical Thrills, is due out Feb. 6, 2026. The lead single “The Wreckage” is out now. The Wreckage is noisy and aggressive, yet melodic and lyrical. Definitely check it out if you enjoy SSPU. http://www.sspu.com/