Music is a therapeutic tool that many turn to when anxieties are high or motivation is low. It’s a medicine whose efficacy is most apparent during stressful times, of which we’ve had our fair share lately.
That’s why the practitioners (er, staff) at Doc’s Records and Vintage teamed up to prescribe a selection of yesterday’s vinyl for today’s frazzled minds. While these albums may not solve all the world’s problems, they’ll provide a little bit of much-needed relief. Take as needed.
Stimulants - Whether you’re feeling frustrated with the state of the world right now or just can’t stop bingeing Netflix shows, these albums should help you get back on your feet and get stuff done.
Stevie Wonder
Innervisions, 1973
Prescribed by Aaron McClendon
Almost half a century later, Innervisions still addresses issues we’re experiencing now, like racism, inequality, and political unrest. But Wonder’s smooth, soulful voice reminds us, “Don’t you worry ‘bout a thing.”
Novos Baianos
Acabou Chorare, 1972
Prescribed by Daniel Salas
Joyful Brazilian bossa nova will have you sambaing in your kitchen. Upbeat and colorful, this album will lift even the bluest spirits.
Talking Heads
Speaking in Tongues, 1983
Prescribed by Aaron McClendon
Frontman David Byrne understands sometimes you just want to metaphorically burn it all down. This eclectic mix of new-wave synth and funky bass lines will give you the soundtrack and energy to do it.
Charles Mingus
Presents Charles Mingus, 1961
Prescribed by Scott Ladouceur
This wonderfully punchy and essential jazz album is packed with power. Put it on while you sip your morning Joe, and you’re sure to take life by the horns.
Various Artists
Studio One Women, The Original, 2004
Prescribed by Skyler Salinas
Like mama telling you everything will be all right, this compilation of reggae, rocksteady, and ska from the women of Studio One soothes your soul.
Curtis Mayfield
Curtis, 1970
Prescribed by Aaron McClendon
“Just move on up to a greater day,” Mayfield commands, as if he traveled in time to be your own personal hype man. His strongly rhythmic album will help you do just that.
Relaxants - Overwhelmed and need to chill out a bit? Want to listen to something moody just to reinforce the fact that times are tough? These albums are for you.
Alice Coltrane
Journey in Satchidananda, 1971
Prescribed by Justin Robertson
Deeply hypnotic and spiritual, Coltrane recorded this album as a healing response to an era of unrest not unlike today. Its meditative mix of harp, saxophone, and Eastern instruments is like a purifying detox for your brain.
Willie Nelson
Teatro, 1998
Prescribed by Godfrey Nabiryanga
“Darkness on the Face of the Earth” and “I’ve Just Destroyed the World” are just a couple track titles to give you an idea of this album’s vibe. But Willie Nelson’s honey-smooth vocals, accompanied by the always calming Emmylou Harris, somehow make everything feel okay.
Brandon Seavers
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Junior Kimbrough
Most Things Haven’t Worked Out, 1997
Prescribed by Justin Robertson
The album title alone is pretty on brand for 2020 so far. Aside from that, Kimbrough’s power blues is a good soundtrack if you just want to sit with your feelings of despair.
Soft Machine
The Soft Machine, 1968
Prescribed by Daniel Salas
Wanna get weird? The experimental prog rock of Soft Machine is here for you and all the trippy weirdness your heart desires.
Roxy Music
For Your Pleasure, 1973
Prescribed by Jenkins Boyd
You’re tired, and you just want some moody, avant garde glam rock. After listening to the 9-minute-long track “The Bogus Man,” you’ll be so disoriented that you’ll forget that you were stressed out to begin with.
You can get your fix at Doc’s Records & Vintage, 2628 Weisenberger St.
