Sonic Therapy: Finding Solace in Sound Amidst the Post-Winter Gloom

Abby McCabe

Local Music Journalist

As the breakthrough of spring reveals its fresh face from deep within the earth, grey skies are frequent and my mood is somber. The lingering darkness from winter leaves many, including myself, with feelings of inconsolable discomfort and existential dread. During this time, I opt for a sound that caters to my feelings, especially beneath clouded skies. I find myself eager to do the most reflecting under such conditions.

This February, we experienced weeks of doom and gloom. At first, I was thrilled to spend my days indoors, romanticizing my melancholy through a windowpane, it felt almost picturesque. But just as quickly as that feeling came, it was gone. Minutes turned into hours, days into weeks, until time began to feel inconsequential and I was left to fend for myself amidst looming thoughts of the past, present, and future.

Without the presence of the sun to remind me when my days started and ended — I felt myself drifting further and further away. The weather became an allegory for my mental state. Feelings of entrapment, disappointment and disdain layered on top of me until I was covered under a thick blanket of snow. Unable to move or call for help I let the snow pile on.

I have always turned towards music in times of such profound need. When your own words befall you, another’s are there to hold you close in silent understanding. Whether or not explicitly acknowledged out loud, the comfort of knowing that pain is shared helps quell even the loudest doubts.

Last month, I spent a lot of time absorbed in art. I lived inside albums and found myself floating amid imaginary worlds of atmospheric bliss. I felt everything head-on and let the music take me where I needed to go. I spent hours perusing Bandcamp, procuring a list of projects from Texas artists that deeply moved me. I’m happy to share my findings and give these local artists their well-deserved flowers.

And remember, the next time you find yourself stranded under grey skies, remind yourself that

you are here now and no amount of lamenting over what the past meant, what the present says or what the future holds can take that away from you.