Most people have heard the phrase ”once in a blue moon” used at some point to denote a rare event, falling somewhere between pigs flying and hell freezing over on the scale of likelihoods. But blue moons, like the one that occurred on Aug. 31, are not as rare as most might guess. The modern definition describes a blue moon as the second full moon occurring in one month, while the more traditional understanding has it as the fourth full moon occurring in a season (there are usually three). Regardless of the variety to which you give heed, a full moon is a thing of beauty that has inspired some unnaturally good music. Here’s to the songs that leave us in a lunar stupor.
You May Be Blue
by Vetiver
Psychedelic folk band Vetiver sets the mood and hue for the playlist with this number. The steady footfall bass beat compliments an ominous guitar and xylophone exchange. Sounds like a lonely moonlit stroll.
Blue Moon
by The Marcels
One of the crown jewels of odes to the moon, this song was released by the doo-wop group in 1961. The ironic use of this track in the closing scene of the film American Werewolf in London merits a viewing all in itself.
Moondance
by Van Morrison
Irishman Van Morrison doesn’t dance often, but when he does, it’s under the moon. He’s usually too busy wooing brown-eyed ladies for that sort of thing, though.
Moonshadow
by the artist formerly known as Cat Stevens
Though he changed his name to Yusef Islam in 1977 following a religious awakening and conversion to Islam, Cat is still remembered as the sixties folkie who laid down a pivotal moon tune, and a favorite of fingerpickers everywhere.
Tiny Cities Made of Ashes
by Modest Mouse
This rhythmic track comes from the indie rock band’s third studio album, “The Moon and Antarctica.” The lyrics are certainly loony enough, depicting drinking a lot of Coke and punching people’s bifocals in. There must be a deep and metaphorical meaning somewhere in there…
When the Stars Go Blue
by Ryan Adams
A talented songwriter, musician and producer, Ryan Adams’ compositions are often bought and performed by popular artists. But there’s no doubt they sound best spilling from their maker’s lips. The wistful vibrations of this piece are no exception.
Sail to the Moon
by Radiohead
Thom Yorke’s infamous wonky eye must not have kept him from beholding the splendor of the moon. Another work of genius from the English oddballs.
Swim to the Moon
by Between the Buried and Me
If you missed this last blue moon, never fear. At 17 minutes long, this song should keep you head banging until the next one rolls around in 2013. In any case, unique instrumentation, intricate song structure and transporting clean vocals make BTBAM more than your average progressive metal outfit.
Blue Moon of Kentucky
by Bill Monroe
This song numbers among the staples of traditional bluegrass, and was first recorded by the father of the genre, Bill Monroe. Its mournful airs are akin to musical moonshine, and are more often than not accompanied by a strong dose of the liquid sort.
