5 Songs That Make Crappy Weather Feel OK

1. Sigur Rós, “Fjögur píanó”

There is something about the tragedy and excitement in this song and accompanying video that makes you think, “Wow, suddenly my life isn’t so sad. At least I didn’t wake up with slices on my back in a room full of dead butterflies this morning.” And damn, Shia Labeouf looks GOOD with a man pony and facial hair.

2. The Radio Dept., “Never Follow Suit”

Self-described as dream pop, The Radio Dept. hails from Sweden. The upbeat drum track coupled with the floating melodies and heart-wrenching vocals leave you feeling suddenly hopeful despite the torrential downpour happening outside your window.

3. Bonobo, “The Keeper”

Despite the slightly depressing theme of the lyrics, the xylophone coupled with Andreya Triana’s full-bodied voice makes you feel as warm as a baby swaddled in a cable knit scarf, or a hobo with a bottle of brandy (hold the eggnog). Lay down and repeat after me: it’s only a season, don’t be a bitch.

4. Thom Yorke, “And It Rained All Night”

The fact that this hectic collaboration of sounds somehow turned into a wonderful solo album is impressive in itself. The strange lyrics make you ask yourself, “What the hell is he talking about?” and you are reassured by the fact that you are not as confused as Thom Yorke. Plus, duh, the song has the word “rain” in it.

5. Local Natives, “Breakers”

The incessant oooohhhhooohhhh ooohhhwoooo of the chorus has a likeness to the swaying tree that keeps threatening to fall on my house (à cause de the wind). While they took a completely different direction with their new album, it’s nice that Local Natives prove adaptive and evolving with this debut single. It’s really tough to pout about how depressed-for-no-reason you are when you think about all of the start-of-year new music that is on it’s way.

6. Lana del Rey, “Blue Velvet”

Okay, I know I said five but who doesn’t love surprises? When it’s cold, it’s good to surround yourself with soft things, like bunnies and socks and blue velvet and boyfriends. No boyfriend you say? Me neither. Let’s be honest — that’s the real reason people get sad in winter. *Insert anti-heteronormative, femme power statement here*

Cheer up, Charlie. Mother Earth needs a break too.

You should follow Thought Catalog on Twitter here.