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This Week’s Must Listen Playlist: Some 'Gatsby' Soundtrack Highlights

Jillian Morabito |
May 12, 2013 | 2:49 p.m. PDT

Staff Reporter

Every other week, Staff Reporter Jillian Morabito showcases some of the tunes you should be tuning in to. Here are her picks for your new Must Listen Playlist:

"Over the Love" by Florence + the Machine

The Queen of Indie has done it again. Written for the release of "The Great Gatsby," the song details the romantic struggle between Gatsby and Daisy. The song even makes reference to the infamous green light symbol from the classic novel that was driven into every student's brain during high school (as well as the yellow dress, piano, etc.).

The powerful command Florence’s voice has is unparalleled. How does that strength reside in a girl that is so soft-spoken in interviews? While we’re at it, has she possibly become the new go-to girl to feature in blockbusters? On the same note, why is she so perfect? These are questions that may never be answered. 

"Young and Beautiful" by Lana Del Rey

As much as we love to give Lana a hard time for her monotone voice, this song is a staple to the Gatsby soundtrack. The lyrics of the song coincide directly with the Daisy we all love to hate.

It is tragic, yet kind of funny. The song details how Daisy isn’t sure if Gatsby will love her when she’s old and ugly, as opposed to how she is now (young and beautiful). It’s a bit narcissistic if you ask me. However, the song fits in so well with the over the top style that is Baz Luhrmann. 

"Purple Yellow Red and Blue" by Portugal. The Man

No, this is not a song from “Out of the Box” that taught us our colors—it is a new single by Portugal. The Man. It is the first track from their new album, “Evil Friends,” due out June 4.

The Oregon band is back on the road this summer as well, playing with Avett Brothers and places such as Red Rocks Music Festival

"Give Me Love" by Ed Sheeran

Though this single came out quite sometime ago (November), it still has yet to hit airwaves or gain huge recognition. Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran has become famous for his sweet, yet tragic, ballads.

If you don’t believe me, watch the video below. He may not be the most likable musician out there, but boy is this song catchy. Also, apparently it is a trend to start recording 8 minute songs (ala Justin Timberlake). The first half of the song is the only part really worth listening to; the latter half is irrelevant and almost reminiscent of a church choir. 

"Father and Son" by Cat Stevens

It may be Mother's Day, but this is still a classic. Though “Wild World” and “Peace Train” are much more famous and featured in just about every other movie released, this is a essential Cat Stevens track as well. It is a dialogue between none other than a father and son, with the father distilling advice and the son reluctant to listen.

The song is quite applicable to being a young adult—there are stages in which we think we know what we’re doing, but we are never too old for our parent’s advice. This song illustrates that feeling perfectly. It is such a shame that stars are gaining fame for singing about things such as starships and whining about past relationships (that could apply to a multitude of pop stars nowadays), try listening to a legend. Other noteworthy songs by Stevens include “Where Do the Children Play” and “The Wind.” In fact, listen to all of the “Tea for the Tillerman” album and you will not waste a single second. 

Reach Staff Reporter Jillian Morabito here



 

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