Rainy day music

One drizzling Melbourne morning, the delightful Anna, mistress of a go-go academy, asked Facebook friends to nominate their favourite rain songs. A list of tracks like It's Raining Men and Raining in Baltimore, soon peppered Anna's wall. It's easy to associate songs with weather, from the title alone.

But what about albums?

When yesterday's rain had softened enough to hear music above the sound of it hitting the tin roof, I had an urge to listen to Iron and Wine's Around the Well.
Sam Beam and band's double cd collection of rarities and rejects is the perfect soundtrack to a rainy afternoon. It's even better when the weather is cold. Listening to it makes you think about snuggling and campfires. Around the Well is chilled, unobtrusive, very laid back, and fun to sing along to; softly.

There are a few covers in the mix, the best are Peng 33 (Stereolab), Waiting for Superman (Flaming Lips), Love Vigilantes (New Order) and Such Great Heights (The Postal Service). But truthfully, there's not a bad track on this album.

The last track, Trapeze Swinger, held me obsessed for weeks last winter. Over 9 minutes it manages to weave a lot of instruments and sounds in and out, so the ears are listening out for the next thing and not being distracted by the monotonous undertones. It's a triumph, that is beautifully executed.

So, over to you. What are your favourite rainy day albums?

Here comes the rain again Melbourne. Take cover!