As November blusters through and the chilling Florida “cold” sets in, you may find yourself looking for something to do during the darker evening hours. Here is a collection of songs about enjoying a swig with friends … or a piano … or pirates. Company is company.
“Rye Whiskey” – Punch Brothers
This five-piece progressive bluegrass band is known for their love of good spirits. The song says rye whiskey “makes the band sound better,” but the Punch Bros. sound good sober too, we promise. Also check out “If the Sea was Whiskey” and “The Moonshiner” off of their first CD and latest EP, respectively.
“Down with the Shine” – Avett Brothers
The Avett Brothers’ music is an un-pin-able crossroads between folk, bluegrass and country. Go to one of their concerts and you will see hippies and rural folk, young punks and old codgers. Nothing fixes such an awkward situation like a shared round of liquid equalizer.
“King of the Rodeo” – Kings of Leon
Kings of Leon frontman Caleb Followill ALWAYS sounds drunk # and he probably is about 97 percent of the time. In any case, their blend of southern rock is equal parts rambunctious and haunting, much like a good mixed drink.
“The Piano has been Drinking” – Tom Waits
Tom Waits has the graveled voice of someone who has drunk (and smoked) heavily since the age of six. Whether this is true or not, blaming inanimate objects for your own misdeeds always makes for an amusing tale. Also check out “Jockey full of Bourbon,” and his many other songs inspired by drink-related misadventures.
“Have One on Me” – Joanna Newsom
Folk goddess Joanna Newsom weaves long, elaborate stories with her voice and her harp that will take you to another world if you let them. If you’re not the imaginative type, a drink may help this process.
“Whiskey in the Jar” – The Grateful Dead
Dead Heads know their mind-altering substances. If they’re recommending a legal one, it must be pretty good. Don’t forget to make a toast to Jerry, wherever he’s hiding!
“Between the Bars” – Elliot Smith
This whiskey waltz is a little melancholy, but very pretty. Just remember, self-reflection is good for the soul, and crying is good for your tear-ducts.
“Poison and Wine” – The Civil War
This song is more about love than drinking, but Joy Williams and John Paul White’s sweet, swirling harmonies will leave your head spinning and your heart warm — without a hangover in the morning.
“Dead Man’s Chest (a.k.a. Yo Ho Ho and a Bottle of Rum)” – Robert Louis Stevenson
No commentary required, me hearties.
