In this new feature on OTM, we spotlight songs both old and new that are currently on repeat.  Perhaps they’re tracks from albums we’ve yet to review; perhaps they’re one-offs we love.  We hope you’ll love them too.

Synesthesia: The production of a sense impression relating to one sense or part of the body by stimulation of another sense or part of the body. (Wikipedia)

Seems like a notion of crossed neural wiring upon the surface, doesn’t it?  And yet, many of us have experiences or recollections that one might define as part of the phenomenon.  Certain scents evoke physical body memories, perhaps, or the mere sight of a favourite food is enough to taste it upon the tongue.  In the case of Andrew McMahon, it’s seeing colours at the sound of a loved one’s voice.

This I understand well:  my last memories of my late grandfather are peppered with moments permeated by the colour green in my skull.  But it’s not the only reason the song slips into mind on loop.  There’s an atmospheric vibe to this one, a true evocation of the night sky peppered with stars.  There’s also a strong message of  embracing what we have and enjoying our imperfect perfection.

“I can see the colours running when I hear the music play.”