5 Best Songs For Open Mic Nights
1. Swing Life Away - Rise Against
Amidst all the punk music of the 2000's, Rise Against was always the band that had a message to impart in their music. From their first offerings to their latest release Wolves, the group has not lost the fire they had for creating militant punk rock.
Out of all of their messages though, the most striking ones tend to be their slower moments when they break out the acoustics. On their 2004 release Siren Song of the Counter Culture, the band decided to strip away the distortion to offer up "Swing Life Away." The tune is a soul-shredding look at a low-income upbringing. The song emphasizes the message that there is nothing wrong with not being rich as long as you have good friends and family to help you through the darker times.
The tune's message is universally grounding while talking about a specific part of society. Its breezy melody makes the listener feel like they are on that front porch as that swing rocks back and forth. That breeziness sweeps you up in the song's narrative while also teaching listeners that what matters most is the shape of your heart rather than your income. Break out the acoustics and swing your way through life with this track.