The quiet pull of introspective songs as temperatures fall

"But I do think, for me, the cold definitely does bring out a different set of music tastes. There are certain, I think, organic sounds, certain gloomy sounds, cozy sounds. If you think about the way that you spend the winter - and what do I want to hear while I'm sipping hot cocoa on my couch? What do I want to hear while bundled up and walking through the neighborhood as the snow falls?"

"KACEY MUSGRAVES: (Singing) And every year, I sincerely try. Oh, but Christmas, it always makes me cry. PARKS: There are albums I love that I literally will not listen to unless it's under 40 degrees outside. "Skeleton Tree" by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds is one that comes to mind. It is so beautiful, but it is not a summer jam. (SOUNDBITE OF SONG, "SKELETON TREE") NICK CAVE AND THE BAD SEEDS: (Singing) And it's all right."

Many listeners gravitate toward melancholic, introspective songs as temperatures fall. Winter listening favors organic, gloomy, and cozy sonic textures that complement activities like sipping hot cocoa or walking through falling snow. Some albums are reserved for colder weather, with certain records avoided unless temperatures drop below specific thresholds. Seasonal listening can evoke reflection, memory, and emotional resonance, aligning mood with environment. Examples cited include Kacey Musgraves' "Christmas Makes Me Cry" and Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds' "Skeleton Tree." Access to seasonal weather influences these habits, and not everyone experiences the same seasonal conditions.

Read at www.npr.org