Editor’s Note: “Spider Sounds” invites members of the University of Richmond community to share their thoughts about items in the Parsons Music Library’s collection. The links included will take you to the library catalog record for the item in question, or to additional relevant information.
Today’s installment of “Spider Sounds” comes courtesy of Music Library Student worker, Claire (class of 2020) and features “Lungs” the 2009 studio album debut of English indie rock group Florence + The Machine. Thanks for contributing to Spider Sounds, Claire!

Florence + The Machine

Lungs

I can still remember the stormy, humid night I spent sitting up on a hill in Grant Park, watching Florence whirl across the stage. At Chicago’s largest music festival, I had spent the entire day listening to dozens of bands, eating gooey, cheesy Chicago-style pizza, and wondering if life could get any better. But let’s face it– standing in lines, dancing like a maniac, and jamming out to live music takes a lot out of a person, and by the nighttime, I was exhausted. For days, I had been anxiously awaiting Florence + The Machine, and now, as I plopped down to watch the last show of Lollapalooza 2015, I just couldn’t wait any longer.

I guess the biggest reason why I love this album is the way it takes me back to that night… Florence + The Machine has always been one of my favorites, and getting to see them in concert was a night I will never forget.

Florence Welch of Florence + the Machine mid song

There is something about the way their songs make me want to move that I have yet to find in any other band. Even in songs that were never played on the radio, like “Between Two Lungs,” there is a unique force (especially during the chorus) that somehow encourages me to get up and dance, whether I’m at home, with friends, or even alone in my room.
This album is perfect for anyone who needs to add a little smile to their day–it never fails to cheer me up. I hope you find your own slice of happiness in it, too.