Playlist: Lake & Lyndale extend a warm, inviting hand

Welcome to Playlists, a series where we turn over the reigns to artists to curate the next big playlist

It’s hard to find a will to live these days. Survival today means something completely different than even a year ago. The ongoing pandemic has been especially agonizing, as we all attempt to navigate a new normal, do what needs done, and drive forward into perhaps the most important election of all time. Experts have observed our collective mental health has gotten worse the last several months, which comes as no shock.

Lake & Lyndale’s “Still Here,” originally written as a reflection on their journey within the industry, dons a far more potent context. “I can’t say for certain that there’s any gold left in these hills / Perseverance pays, or so they say / And I just pray that it will,” lead vocalist Channing Marie pleads, as more a prayer to herself than anything. Acoustic guitar crackles beneath her voice, a gentle pitter-patter of other instruments ebbing and flowing like a bubbling creek. The band, rounded out with Jon Krentz, Tyler Kloewer, and Eric Clifford, accentuates Marie’s soaring, eagle-eyed precision. It’s the kind of entry that’s truly invigorating and soothing in these trying times.

Below, Marie compiles a roster of hopeful songs that pair quite nicely with her band’s own cut.

“Still Here” by Lake & Lyndale

Our new single, “Still Here,” was meant to bring a sense of hope and perseverance to listeners, especially during these uncertain times.

“That’s How You Lose Her” by Will Hoge

Will Hoge’s new record, Tiny Little Movies, is a must listen, including 11 different pieces of magic. This is one of my favorite tracks and it’s sure to pull at the heartstrings.

“Good Fight” by Lori McKenna

This is latest single from my favorite songwriter, Lori McKenna. This feel-good track reminds us all that it takes work to write your love story, that it’s worth it to keep “fighting the good fight.”

“Tom T. Hall T-Shirt” by Graham Bramblett

This new single by Graham Bramblett is sure to get you movin this summer. The groove is undeniable… ah, stomp, stomp.

“Twinkle Twinkle” by Margo Price

Margo Price’s new record, That’s How Rumors Get Started, takes you on a great escape while also assuring you that Rock N Roll is alive and well. This is my current favorite from the album.

“Janice at the Hotel Bar” by Hailey Whitters

This song… goosebumps. Lyrics like this are hard to come by, and if I had to pick a favorite line, I’d have to go with: “Make a life so good that you aint gotta live it twice.” My favorite track from the record The Dream.

“Hold Out Your Hand” by Brandi Carlile

This is a go-to track for me, from the album By the Way, I Forgive You. Seeing/hearing her belt this one out live was an experience I’ll never forget. Try not to rock out to this one; I dare ya.

“A Little Bit of Everything” by Dawes

We have always been inspired by this band and their music. I remember hearing this song in my car for the first time and couldn’t fight the tears; it instantly became one of my favorite songs.

“Poet’s Prayer” by Sunny Sweeney

One of my favorite releases during quarantine. “May our beds be soft, coffee strong and hot / May the angels of the blacktop / Keep our souls from getting lost.” Amen, Sunny.

“Damn You for Breaking My Heart” by Caitlyn Smith

From the latest record, Supernova, Caitlyn Smith does it again with her captivating melodies and soaring vocals. Highly recommend this track and the entire album. 

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