Spring break is almost upon us; therefore, it is a perfect time to make a mixed CD to mark the occasion. No matter what you do or where you go, music is a must. Here are a few song suggestions to spice up the holiday play list.
"I Wanna Be Sedated" -- The Ramones
Twenty-four hours to go until break. What to do? You will most likely be so jittery with anticipation of a class-free week that you won't be able to focus on anything but the seconds ticking off the clock. When you have nothing to do and nowhere to go the day before break and you can't control your fingers and your brain, don't go insane, let this classic punky tune sedate you.
"One Big Holiday" -- My Morning Jacket
This one's for all you indie rock fans at large. If you feel that you need to escape this town for a little bit, this is the perfect song to blast through the radio as State College fades out of your rear view. The driving guitar and drums will put you in the perfect mood for the open road, regardless if you are traveling 20 minutes or 20 hours.
"Road Trippin' " -- The Red Hot Chili Peppers
This song is the perfect ballad for anyone who will be in a car, roaming around the country over break. The music selection is an essential for any long drive, so be sure to choose songs that will keep you awake even after 10 hours behind the wheel. Grab some friends, snacks and money for gas, put the car in cruise control and get lost anywhere in the United States. Don't forget turn up the volume and belt out this rockin' tune at the top of your lungs at least once in between State College and where ever.
"Blister in the Sun" -- The Violent Femmes
This classic, if not wacky jingle, is a unique addition to any mix. It's cheerful and catchy, but it can also be a timely reminder for spring breakers. If you are anything like me, your fair Irish skin will blister if you forget to apply the SPF 45 every hour. A lobster red burn can ruin any trip, so if you are planning to catch the rays this break, don't forget the sunscreen. You don't want to be burned to a crisp when you are out walking and strutting your stuff at the shore.
"Thong Song" -- Sisqo
Ah yes. This fresh little ditty will bring back fond memories from spring breaks of yore. This song can be described in two words: guilty pleasure. But seriously, how can you forget the fantasy beach scenes in the music video that feature a platinum-haired Sisqo with a bus full of foxy ladies in glow-in the dark underwear? Genius. If you are livin' la vida loca at a club this break be sure to request this smooth jam to make your booty go.
"Margaritaville" -- Jimmy Buffett
If your idea of the perfect spring break is lying on a beach with a frozen concoction in your hand, then this song is right up your alley. It's an oldie but goody with an islandy, laid back style that will help melt away all the stress of midterms in a jiffy. This song also has a few important messages for any sun worshipping, margarita loving tourist to remember: don't get a tattoo while wasted, don't accidentally misplace your salt shaker, and most importantly, anything that happens over spring break is nobody's fault.
"California Dreamin' " -- The Mamas & the Papas
Look around you for a second. Are all the leaves brown? Is the sky gray? This could mean that a trip to sunny California is in store. This may not be feasible for every winter weary Penn State student, so this song will offer you an escape. Just pop it in the stereo, close your eyes and imagine yourself in LA; repeat as necessary. Mamas and Papas may be the last people you want to think about over break, but this haunting hippie tune will surely brighten your spirits, if not the weather.
"Sleeping In" -- The Postal Service
Okay, so you don't really have any plans for break. The downside: you are stuck at home for a week.
The upside: you don't have to wake up for 8 a.m. classes! Sweet deal!
It's all right to get excited over a few more hours of shut-eye. You deserve it, but don't limit yourself.
Who said that eight hours of sleep a night is adequate? Go for 12! Give yourself the opportunity to dream about where you will be on vacation next spring break and don't forget to unplug your alarm clock!
