Every once in a while, an album can define a point in your life. Even after you’ve listened to each song countless times, revisiting the album a few years later can take you back to the sights and events of when you first discovered it. These albums tend to become less of a collection of songs and more of a time capsule. For me, “Praise the Divide” by Roma 79 is one of those albums.
Although “Praise the Divide” was only released a little over three years ago, it quickly came to define a moment of great change in my life. I was about to leave for college, and I knew that this meant leaving the comforts of home. It seemed like a big leap, but this album became the perfect soundtrack to help me through the transition.
When I would listen to “Praise the Divide,” my worries would quickly fade away. I remember being pulled in by its complex rhythms, layered harmonies and unorthodox song structures. It seemed like Roma 79 had fun making this album, and their carefree nature resonated with me. The transition to college can be nerve-wracking for anyone, but this album helped ease the worries of living in a new place and going to a new school.
When I revisit the album now, I can still listen to a song like “Phantom Comes to Life” and remember driving down the highway toward some uncertain destination with the windows down. The piano in the title track “Praise the Divide” still reminds me of the smell of rain on my way to school, and I am able to transport myself back to that moment. It reminds me of how something that seemed so intimidating quickly became exciting. This album enhanced the imagery of those first days of class.
Although I came across “Praise the Divide” during an uncertain time, everything turned out for the best. Now that I am adjusted to the college routine, I am glad that I can give this album a listen and still tap into those feelings of worry and wonder. “Praise the Divide” has come to represent more than just a collection of songs, and it is because of that, that it is my favorite album of all time — this week.
Tags :
Favorite album of all time
