In our fast-paced, digitally-driven world, focused music listening has become a lost practice. Yet, dedicating time to immerse yourself in a full album, free from distractions, can significantly benefit your well-being and overall quality of life. Let’s explore why you should consider setting aside time for at least two weekly focused album-listening sessions.

Listening to a recent Rick Beato (a YouTube personality, multi-instrumentalist, music producer, and educator) video, he reminded me of what it used to be like for me.

The Lost Art of Album Listening

Remember when purchasing a new album was an event in itself? Whether it was a vinyl record, cassette tape, or CD, the experience of bringing home new music was filled with anticipation and excitement. This ritual of dedicated listening has largely been replaced by shuffle playlists and background music, but there’s value in revisiting this more intentional approach to music consumption.

Benefits of Focused Listening

Stress Reduction and Relaxation

Listening to music can have a profound effect on our mental state. Research has shown that music can help lower anxiety, reduce stress hormones like cortisol, and promote the release of dopamine – the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. Setting aside time for uninterrupted listening creates a space for relaxation and stress relief in your week.

Improved Cognitive Function

Music engages multiple brain areas simultaneously, providing a comprehensive mental workout. Studies have demonstrated that listening to music can enhance cognitive performance, including improvements in memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Regular album listening sessions can serve as “brain training,” keeping your mind sharp and agile.

Emotional Processing and Mood Enhancement

Music has a unique ability to evoke and process emotions. Engaging with a full album allows you to journey through various emotional experiences, helping you process your feelings more effectively. This can lead to improved emotional well-being and a more positive mood overall.

Mindfulness and Present-Moment Awareness

In an era of constant multitasking, focused album listening provides an opportunity for mindfulness. By eliminating distractions and immersing yourself in the music, you practice being present in the moment – a skill that can benefit many areas of your life.

How to Implement Album Listening Sessions

1. Choose Your Albums: Choose albums that interest you, whether old favorites or discoveries. Variety can keep the experience fresh and engaging.
2. Create the Right Environment: Find a comfortable, quiet space where you won’t be interrupted. Consider using high-quality headphones or speakers to enhance the listening experience.
3. Eliminate Distractions: Turn off notifications on your devices and avoid emails, texts, or other interruptions during your listening time.
4. Listen Actively: Listen to the lyrics, instrumentation, and overall composition. Try to notice new details with each listen.
5. Reflect: After listening, take a few moments to reflect on what you heard and how it made you feel.

The Value of Repetition

Listening to an album multiple times allows you to discover new layers and nuances in the music. The first listen gives you an overall impression, while subsequent listens let you delve deeper into the artistry and message of the work. This repeated exposure can enhance your appreciation and understanding of the music.

Conclusion

In a world where music is often relegated to background noise, consciously setting aside time for focused album listening can be a revolutionary act of self-care. By committing to at least two weekly album sessions, you’re not just enjoying music – you’re potentially improving your cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. So dust off those old records, rediscover your CD collection or explore new albums on your streaming service of choice. Your mind and spirit will thank you for this musical journey.

Here’s a look at my list of coming albums to focus listen to (and always subject to change):

• Hummingbird, Carley Pearce
• Live at the Hollywood Bowl, Joe Bonamassa
• Shake Sugaree, Elizabeth Cotton
• Songwriter, Johnny Cash
• Fragile, Yes
• Vertiginous Canyons, Andy Summers
• Unprecedented Sh!t, Ani DiFranco