Saturday, December 4, 2010

swim with me my sister, when I die

How many songs can you think of that explore the mystery of death with beauty and grace? I can think of only one artist, the insanely talented Antony Hegarty.

Antony and the Johnsons' new album, Swanlights, is my new favorite. The lyrics are so sweet and earnest. Neither heaven nor hell, just a hopeful song that kindred spirits will find one another in the next world, and that looking upon one another's faces is all we'll need.



What about you? Have you thought of what song you'd like for your own service?

8 comments:

Adnan said...

I like the track "flétta" from their new album, (mostly because björk's vocals feature in them.) Otherwise Anthony has done some really great songs. For example, "Hope There's Someone", his version of "Knockin' On Heaven's Door", and the song "Blind" which he did with Hercules and Love Affair (just to name a few.)

By the way, thank you so much for the comment you left yesterday. It really lifted my mood.

Style Scientist said...

Great question, Sister. I've never thought of that myself. For me, perhaps, I'll choose "Bittersweet Symphony" by the Verve. I listened to it a lot when my mom passed. It made me cry so much. Oh, how much I miss her :_(.

Sister Shirley said...

So many songs to choose from! Other songs that have helped me either dwell in loss, or try to cope with it:

Low: Weight of Water
Nick Cave: Darker with the Day
Cowboy Junkies: So Lonesome I Could Cry
Julee Cruise: Questions in a World of Blue
Azure Ray: Kingfisher

just to name a few ...

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ash said...

Lyle Lovett and Tom Waits both have some very good and even fun songs about mourning and funerals.

Style Odyssey said...

I'll Fly Away- I'm a southerner, and this old gospel song has always struck me as one I'd like at my service.

When They Ring the Golden Bells- I love Natalie Merchant's version from her album Ophelia. The end part is haunting and melodious.

I'd also include a classical piece and perhaps even a Massive Attack song. And no pun intended, but some ethereal Dead Can Dance songs, or just Lisa Gerrard by herself.

When my beloved mom-in-law died, we played a bunch of stuff from her extensive CD collection (including Red Hot Chili Peppers). That was at the reception after the service. It lightened the mood considerably.

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