13 Best Songs About Garden State Soundtrack

The ‘Garden State’ soundtrack, released in 2004, is a masterpiece of indie rock music that has stood the test of time. One of the key reasons for its success was its use of carefully selected songs that perfectly captured the mood and spirit of the movie.

Among these songs is “New Slang” by The Shins, which became an instant classic and helped to launch the band into the mainstream. But “New Slang” was just one of many great songs on the Garden State soundtrack, which featured an eclectic mix of indie rock, folk, and electronica.

One song in particular that stands out is “The Only Living Boy in New York” by Simon & Garfunkel. The song was originally released on the duo’s 1970 album Bridge Over Troubled Water, but its inclusion on the Garden State soundtrack helped to introduce it to a new generation of listeners. The song’s melancholic melody and poignant lyrics perfectly capture the bittersweet feelings of loneliness and longing that are so central to the movie’s themes.

In this article, we will explore the many ways in which the Garden State soundtrack has left an indelible mark on the indie rock music scene. We will delve into the backstory of some of the key songs on the soundtrack, examining how they were chosen and how they came to define the movie’s unique aesthetic. Additionally, we will explore the lasting impact of the soundtrack on popular culture and examine how it continues to influence musicians and moviegoers to this day.

1. Don’t Panic – Coldplay

“Don’t Panic” is a melancholic yet hopeful song by British alternative rock band Coldplay, released in 2000 as the opening track of their debut album “Parachutes”. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, and mellow vocals by lead singer Chris Martin, creating a dreamy and introspective atmosphere. The lyrics touch upon themes of anxiety and uncertainty, encouraging listeners to stay calm and optimistic even in times of trouble. The chorus, “We live in a beautiful world, yeah we do, yeah we do”, offers a reminder to appreciate the beauty of life despite its difficulties. “Don’t Panic” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Coldplay’s live performances, showcasing the band’s ability to combine simplicity and depth in their music.

2. Caring is Creepy – The Shins

“Caring is Creepy” is a hauntingly beautiful indie rock song by American band The Shins. Released in 2001, it features a mesmerizing melody and poignant lyrics that explore the paradoxical nature of human connection.

The song begins with a slow, almost hypnotic guitar riff, which is gradually joined by a melancholic piano and James Mercer’s dreamy vocals. As the song progresses, the instrumentation builds in intensity, creating a sense of emotional tension that perfectly complements the lyrics.

“Caring is Creepy” speaks to the inherent risks of vulnerability and intimacy. The title itself is a contradiction, suggesting that the act of caring for someone can be unsettling and even frightening. Mercer’s lyrics evoke a sense of unease, painting a picture of a world where even the most genuine acts of love and affection can be met with suspicion or rejection.

Despite its somewhat bleak message, “Caring is Creepy” is a deeply affecting song that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the sting of rejection or the fear of opening themselves up to others. The Shins’ unique blend of indie rock, folk, and pop sensibilities is on full display here, making this song a standout track in their discography and a beloved classic of the early 2000s indie rock scene.

3. In the Waiting Line – Zero 7

“In the Waiting Line” is a mesmerizing downtempo song by British electronic music duo Zero 7. Released in 2001, it features a lush, atmospheric sound that transports listeners to a world of contemplation and introspection.

The song begins with a gentle piano riff and a haunting vocal melody, which are gradually joined by a mellow beat and a richly textured electronic backdrop. As the song progresses, the layers of sound build in complexity, creating a sense of tension and release that is both calming and emotionally resonant.

Lyrically, “In the Waiting Line” speaks to the human condition of waiting and longing for something more. The repeated refrain of “waiting in the line” evokes a sense of ennui and restlessness, while the verses explore the themes of isolation, disconnection, and the search for meaning and purpose.

Despite its somewhat melancholic message, “In the Waiting Line” is a beautifully crafted song that captures the essence of what it means to be human. Zero 7’s signature blend of electronic and acoustic elements creates a sound that is both timeless and modern, making this song a beloved classic of the downtempo genre and a staple of chillout playlists around the world.

4. New Slang – The Shins

“New Slang” is a whimsical indie folk song by American band The Shins. Released in 2001, it features a catchy melody, clever lyrics, and a charmingly lo-fi sound that captures the essence of the early 2000s indie rock scene.

The song begins with a simple acoustic guitar riff and James Mercer’s distinctive vocals, which are soon joined by a playful rhythm section and a cheerful whistle melody. As the song progresses, the instrumentation builds in complexity, creating a joyous sense of momentum that perfectly complements the lyrics.

“New Slang” is a celebration of the power of music to transcend language and connect people from different walks of life. The lyrics are full of clever wordplay and poetic imagery, evoking a sense of wonder and discovery that is both universal and deeply personal.

Despite its relatively modest commercial success, “New Slang” has become one of the defining songs of the indie rock genre, inspiring countless imitators and earning a place in the hearts of fans around the world. The Shins’ unique blend of folk, rock, and pop influences, combined with Mercer’s distinctive voice and evocative lyrics, make this song a timeless classic that still resonates with listeners today.

5. I Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You – Colin Hay

“I Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You” is a heartbreakingly beautiful song by Scottish-Australian musician Colin Hay. Released in 2001, it features a sparse, acoustic sound that allows Hay’s expressive vocals and poetic lyrics to take center stage.

The song begins with a gentle guitar riff and Hay’s plaintive vocals, which are soon joined by a haunting string arrangement and a subdued percussion track. As the song progresses, the layers of sound build in intensity, creating a sense of emotional depth and complexity that perfectly complements the lyrics.

“I Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You” speaks to the universal experience of heartbreak and the difficulty of moving on from a lost love. Hay’s lyrics are poignant and honest, capturing the raw emotion of grief and the fragile hope of healing.

Despite its somber subject matter, “I Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You” is a beautifully crafted song that showcases Hay’s skills as a songwriter and performer. His unique blend of folk, rock, and pop influences, combined with his soulful voice and evocative lyrics, make this song a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.

6. Blue Eyes – Cary Brothers

“Blue Eyes” is a soulful indie folk song by American singer-songwriter Cary Brothers. Released in 2004, it features a stripped-down, acoustic sound that highlights Brothers’ emotive vocals and poetic lyrics.

The song begins with a gentle guitar riff and Brothers’ delicate vocals, which are soon joined by a mournful string arrangement and a sparse percussion track. As the song progresses, the layers of sound build in intensity, creating a sense of emotional depth and complexity that perfectly complements the lyrics.

“Blue Eyes” is a bittersweet ode to lost love and the pain of moving on. Brothers’ lyrics are evocative and introspective, capturing the conflicted feelings of regret, longing, and acceptance that come with the end of a relationship.

Despite its relatively low profile, “Blue Eyes” has become a beloved song among indie folk fans, thanks in no small part to Brothers’ raw talent as a songwriter and performer. His unique blend of folk, rock, and pop influences, combined with his soulful voice and evocative lyrics, make this song a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.

7. Fair – Remy Zero

“Fair” is a soaring, anthemic rock song by American band Remy Zero. Released in 1996, it features a driving beat, shimmering guitars, and lead singer Cinjun Tate’s powerful vocals.

The song begins with a simple guitar riff and Tate’s emotive vocals, which are soon joined by a propulsive rhythm section and a lush, atmospheric soundscape. As the song progresses, the layers of sound build in intensity, creating a sense of emotional release and catharsis that perfectly complements the lyrics.

“Fair” is a song about perseverance and hope in the face of adversity. Tate’s lyrics are poetic and introspective, capturing the struggle to find meaning and purpose in a chaotic world.

Despite its relative lack of commercial success, “Fair” has become a cult classic among fans of 90s alternative rock, thanks in no small part to Remy Zero’s unique blend of art rock, post-grunge, and shoegaze influences. The song’s epic sound and emotive lyrics make it a powerful statement of resilience and defiance that still resonates with listeners today.

8. One of These Things First – Nick Drake

“One of These Things First” is a hauntingly beautiful song by British singer-songwriter Nick Drake. Released in 1970, it features Drake’s signature fingerpicked guitar style, ethereal vocals, and a wistful, introspective sound.

The song begins with a simple guitar riff and Drake’s gentle vocals, which are soon joined by a delicate string arrangement and a subdued rhythm section. As the song progresses, the layers of sound build in complexity, creating a sense of emotional depth and intimacy that perfectly complements the lyrics.

“One of These Things First” is a song about the uncertainty and longing of youth, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. Drake’s lyrics are poetic and introspective, evoking a sense of melancholy and nostalgia that is both universal and deeply personal.

Despite his untimely death at the age of 26, Drake’s music has had a lasting impact on generations of listeners, and “One of These Things First” remains one of his most beloved songs. Its haunting sound and introspective lyrics make it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and move fans around the world.

9. Lebanese Blonde – Thievery Corporation

“Lebanese Blonde” is a mesmerizing downtempo song by American electronic music duo Thievery Corporation. Released in 2000, it features a chilled-out, ethereal sound that draws on a diverse array of musical influences, including dub, bossa nova, and Middle Eastern music.

The song begins with a hypnotic beat and a sultry vocal sample, which are soon joined by a lush, atmospheric soundscape that includes traditional Middle Eastern instruments like the oud and the qanun. As the song progresses, the layers of sound build in complexity, creating a dreamy, otherworldly vibe that is both exotic and familiar.

“Lebanese Blonde” is a song about longing and nostalgia, and the power of music to transport us to other times and places. Its evocative sound and imagery suggest a sense of romantic longing and yearning for something that is just out of reach.

Despite its relatively low profile, “Lebanese Blonde” has become a cult classic among fans of downtempo and world music, thanks to Thievery Corporation’s unique blend of global influences and their innovative approach to electronic music production. The song’s hypnotic sound and evocative lyrics make it a timeless classic that continues to captivate and enchant listeners today.

10. The Only Living Boy in New York – Simon & Garfunkel

“The Only Living Boy in New York” is a melancholic folk-pop song by American duo Simon & Garfunkel. Released in 1970, it features the duo’s trademark harmonies, acoustic guitar, and a lush string arrangement.

The song begins with a gentle guitar riff and Paul Simon’s delicate vocals, which are soon joined by Art Garfunkel’s soaring harmonies and a stirring string arrangement. As the song progresses, the layers of sound build in intensity, creating a sense of emotional depth and complexity that perfectly complements the lyrics.

“The Only Living Boy in New York” is a song about loneliness and the search for meaning in a crowded city. Simon’s lyrics are poetic and introspective, capturing the sense of isolation and disconnection that can come with living in a big city.

Despite its relatively low profile, “The Only Living Boy in New York” has become a fan favorite among Simon & Garfunkel fans, thanks in no small part to the duo’s impeccable harmonies and Simon’s gift for crafting timeless, introspective lyrics. The song’s bittersweet sound and evocative lyrics make it a classic example of the duo’s unique blend of folk, pop, and rock influences.

11. Such Great Heights – Iron & Wine

“Such Great Heights” is a poignant indie folk-pop song originally by American band The Postal Service and covered by Iron & Wine. Released in 2003, it features a stripped-down, acoustic sound that highlights the song’s heartfelt lyrics and emotive melody.

The song begins with a simple guitar riff and Sam Beam’s gentle vocals, which are soon joined by subtle percussion and a warm, melodic bassline. As the song progresses, the layers of sound build in intensity, creating a sense of emotional depth and intimacy that perfectly complements the lyrics.

“Such Great Heights” is a song about the power of human connection and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, evoking a sense of hope and optimism in the face of life’s challenges and uncertainties.

Iron & Wine’s version of the song adds a layer of emotional depth and authenticity to the already poignant lyrics. Beam’s gentle, soulful vocals and sparse acoustic instrumentation create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that is both poignant and deeply affecting. The song’s understated sound and introspective lyrics make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners around the world.

12. Let Go – Frou Frou

“Let Go” is a dreamy, electronic-pop song by British duo Frou Frou, comprised of Imogen Heap and Guy Sigsworth. Released in 2002, it features a lush, atmospheric sound that blends electronic beats, delicate piano melodies, and Heap’s soaring vocals.

The song begins with a hypnotic, stuttering beat and a haunting piano melody, which are soon joined by Heap’s ethereal vocals. As the song progresses, the layers of sound build in complexity, creating a rich, immersive soundscape that is both ethereal and grounded.

“Let Go” is a song about embracing change and letting go of the past. Heap’s lyrics are introspective and deeply personal, evoking a sense of vulnerability and emotional depth that is both moving and relatable.

The song’s lush, electronic-pop sound and evocative lyrics have made it a fan favorite over the years, and it has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and advertisements. Its dreamy, otherworldly vibe and empowering message make it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners today.

13. Winding Road – Bonnie Somerville

“Winding Road” is a beautiful and heartfelt song by Bonnie Somerville. The track features Somerville’s powerful and soulful vocals, supported by a gentle acoustic guitar melody and soft percussion.

The song’s lyrics tell a story of perseverance and hope in the face of adversity, with Somerville singing about the winding road of life and the obstacles that we must overcome to reach our goals. The message of the song is both inspiring and relatable, reminding listeners that no matter how difficult the journey may be, there is always light at the end of the tunnel.

The emotional depth of Somerville’s voice captures the ups and downs of the human experience, making “Winding Road” a powerful and uplifting anthem for anyone going through a tough time. The song’s melody is simple yet effective, allowing Somerville’s vocals to shine through and drive home the song’s message.

Whether you’re feeling lost and uncertain or just need a little motivation to keep pushing forward, “Winding Road” is a song that will touch your heart and remind you that anything is possible with perseverance and a little bit of hope. With its timeless message and beautiful sound, “Winding Road” is a true gem in Bonnie Somerville’s impressive musical catalog.