Plugged In: Tunes to help you tune out

By TESS OSMER

Pause and plug in those ear buds or reach for your beats, I have something to show you. That is if chill, layered music sounds like something you would be interested in.

I recently found two blissful music stations known as MrSuicideSheep and Apieron, both accounts on Soundcloud determined to change the populace’s musical experience.

First, about 13 days ago, EDM.com, along with MrSuicideSheep, posted a song called “Between Us.” It was originally produced by Elénne and featured Mothica, but was remixed by Autograf, another EDM artist. If you are not inclined to electronic dance, you can cut corners by looking up the original; it still has a very interesting sound.

However, I would strongly advise against it. Behind the mask that is MrSuicideSheep is supposedly one man. The account is extremely elusive, claiming only to release ‘good music’ under the record label Seeking Blue. The layers and sophisticated beat of the remix by Autograf does not disappoint and is indeed very good. Both the highlights of the lyrics with sharp beats and underlying drips and drops of the xylophone captivate the senses.

Similarly, in the late afternoon last week, a remix of ODESZA’s “All we need,” which was featured on their album “In Return” released five months ago, was reposted on MrSuicideSheep’s account. Once again, Autograf, who claims to hail from Chicago and is currently gaining a lot of followers, tweaked the already evocative nature of ODESZA’s sound. The track is enhanced by piano notes and the underplay of the original lyrics with drum notes and handclaps taking center stage.

This song certainly pulls the listener in and cumulates in an almost gravitational affect. The twists of inclinations and the evocative lyrics bring about a change in atmosphere. And this is “not a tactic of exposure, baby.”

Now, surrender to the repeat button. More than two weeks ago, MrSuicideSheep reposted “The Woods,” a song originally produced by the Hollow Coves. The original song has done well enough on its own, but it is significantly turned up by Ghosts, an EDM artist from Australia. The remix features more instruments than the original, including drums and simple techno techniques. The guitar from the original song is the most heightened aspect of the song and treats the lyrics with much respect and accordance.

In contrast, Missio’s “I Run to You,” is rightfully untouched by the account and simply reposted. Missio, or Matthew Brue, comes from the dusty southwest that is Austin, Texas. His musical product, “I Run to You,” has lyrics that both pop and lay in the background. With notes of whistling while the beat reverberates between vocals, he captures longing in a way that my ears have never experienced.

“The Way She Moves,” originally produced by an artist named Tenru, is another song MrSuicideSheep amps up. Its sensual vibe becomes the spotlight in the remix. This is the type of song that makes you feel someone else’s state. Laced with emotion already, MrSuicideSheep has revved it up just a bit, leaving you with all the emotion and none of the bore.

If your feeling the snow, and the ominous sky that is hovering above campus at the moment, I would strongly suggest you play Vancouver Sleep Clinic’s “Collapse.” This track encapsulates ambient music with indie rock roots. This Canadian band is hitting the high marks, and their music is changing the game. The loneliness of the lyrics accompanied by the layered guitar and samba percussion shakers evoke the senses in a way that molds perfectly with the weather outside.