This being my third year running the Turkey Trot, I've finally managed to weed out the songs on my playlist that are useless and maintain the ones that help me power through Delaware Ave and make it to the Convention Center in time for a nap before the turkey eating commences. Below are some of my suggestions for your own playlist.
"Helena Beat" by Foster the People
Some may argue that "Pumped Up Kicks" is a better selection by this LA trio considering it actually encourages to run, but I always opt for this one mainly because of the opening. The intense drum beats in the beginning get me revved up to take race by the horns, and those beats continue it hit it hard throughout the song. If you're someone that needs to run to the beat of the music, this one's not for you, but I highly recommend it for your next dance party.
"Sleepyhead" by Passion Pit
This selection makes the list for a couple of reasons. For one, it's a total "happy song" in that I can't help but smile while listening to that, and at the halfway point of an 8K, you're going to need something to make you smile and inspire you to keep on going. On top of that, lead singer Michael Angelakos happens to be from Buffalo, making his music great for running through our fine city. What really draws me to this song is the synth sound during the chorus, particularly at the 2:16 when it drops out and come whirring back in.
"The Cave" by Mumford and Sons
Mumford and Sons might seem like an odd choice for a running playlist, but "The Cave" has done wonders for me during all my races this year. Sure, it doesn't start out all that fast, but it doesn't take long to find its groove and slowly build up to a super passionate resolution that will surely have you increasing your pace, propelling you past all the runners that are nearly as serious as your are about this.
"Junior Kickstart" by The Go! Team
The Go! Team is known for having busy, layered songs that have an old school flair and this one is no exception. An instrumental choice, it's frenzied and playful and will certainly get you itching to run, kind of like the Pacman characters in its accompanying video. The song is the equivalent of drinking a Rockstar before running but is probably a much better option health-wise.
"Comin' Home" by Murder by Death
Extremely appropriate as you reach the finish line (though the entire race is in Buffalo, so I suppose you've been home the whole time you've been running), I highly recommend to get this song toward the end of your playlist. Another builder, right from the start you think, "Yup, this one's gonna be good" as the opening guitar riff begins under Adam Turla's whiskey-soaked voice. From there it only gets better when the cello kicks in as well as the percussion, and Turla starts going a bit crazy. I guarantee that this will have you sprinting past the Convention Center faster than you had hoped for.
These are but a few suggestions if you're looking to fill out that playlist for today's 9 a.m. start. Good luck to all and a Happy Thanksgiving!
good playlist!