Soundtrack for the summit
January 20, 2015
Admit it—you secretly narrate your own life story. It’s nothing to be ashamed of, especially in those extra, moive-esque moments that are just begging for an epic soundtrack via your earbuds.
Washington State offers some of the best and most beautiful recreational activities available. As we encourage you to get out and take advantage of those mountain trails and snowy slopes this season, we thought you should have an epic playlist to help make those moments even more soundtrack-worthy.
Peppered with tried-and-true indie artists, this playlist is a survey of that folksy Northwest flavor guaranteed to make your outdoor adventures feel larger than life (or at least convince you that Zach Braff would be interested in the copyrights to your memoir):
“Hoppípolla” – Sigur Rós
Sigur Rós are the masters of the inspirational theme. If this song doesn’t make you want to climb a mountain, I don’t know what will.
“Byegone” – Volcano Choir
The central, soaring guitar riff is begging for a silver screen, and the build is a perfect pairing with Justin Vernon’s ambitious poetry.
“Welcome Home” – Radical Face
Is this not the perfect sing-along for emotional bonding? Best served with friends.
“The Great Salt Lake” – Band of Horses
Band of Horses do alt-country better than most.
“Home” – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
If you haven’t heard this, you’ll be whistling it for the rest of your life. It’s an excellent, jaunty tune for the trail.
“King of Spain” – The Tallest Man On Earth
This is the kind of song that makes you want to live alone in the woods.
“Grown Ocean” – Fleet Foxes
Seattle-based folk inspired by the Cascades. Probably the most appropriate music for experiencing the Cascades.
“Transatlanticism” – Death Cab For Cutie
The theme song of Northwestern kids everywhere.
“The Crane Wife 1 & 2” – The Decemberists
Eleven minutes of beautiful storytelling and immaculate arrangements.
“Festival” – Sigur Rós
Their native Icelandic landscapes have taught them a thing or two about writing the perfect song for outdoor adventure. Equal parts angelic and ambitious build.
Listen to these tracks in order for activities clocking in at an hour, or toss them in with some of your own trusty favorites to add a dash of Pacific Northwest to your usual mix. However you choose to listen, you’re sure to make any out-of-doors trek as memorable as a movie.