Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros is an American indie folk rock band formed in 2007. The band is known for their unique blend of folk, rock, gospel, and world music influences, and their ability to create music that is both uplifting and introspective. Led by frontman Alex Ebert, the band has released four studio albums, several EPs, and has toured extensively around the world. With their catchy melodies, powerful harmonies, and soulful lyrics, Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros has become one of the most beloved bands of the indie folk rock scene. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 best Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros songs of all time. From the hauntingly beautiful ballad “Child” to the energetic anthem “Man on Fire,” these songs showcase the band’s unique style and ability to capture the human spirit through music. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the band, this list is sure to introduce you to some of the best music that Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros has to offer.
10. Desert Song
“Desert Song” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros is a soulful, uplifting track that evokes images of the vast and empty desert. The song features catchy guitar riffs, a driving beat, and the distinctive vocals of lead singer Alex Ebert. The lyrics speak of a journey through the desert, with the narrator seeking a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “we’ll make it out of this desert alive,” serves as a reminder of the power of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity. The song is a perfect blend of indie rock and folk influences, and is sure to leave listeners feeling inspired and energized.
9. Kisses Over Babylon
“Kisses Over Babylon” is a sprawling, epic track from Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. The song features soaring vocals, a driving beat, and a lush, orchestral arrangement. The lyrics speak of a world in crisis, with the narrator calling for love and unity in the face of destruction and chaos. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “we’ll rise up like the sun,” serves as a rallying cry for those who refuse to be defeated by the darkness of the world. The song is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, and is sure to leave listeners feeling inspired and empowered.
8. Home
“Home” is the breakout hit from Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, and for good reason. The song is a joyous celebration of love and community, with its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and sing-along chorus. The lyrics speak of a love that transcends all boundaries, with the narrator declaring that he has found his home in the arms of his beloved. The song is a perfect example of the band’s unique blend of folk, rock, and gospel influences, and is sure to leave listeners feeling uplifted and inspired.
7. 40 Day Dream
“40 Day Dream” is a driving, energetic track from Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. The song features a catchy melody, a driving beat, and the distinctive vocals of lead singer Alex Ebert. The lyrics speak of a quest for self-discovery and enlightenment, with the narrator declaring that he is “on a forty day journey for the perfect song.” The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “I been sleeping for forty days and nights now, I’m still waking up,” serves as a reminder of the power of self-awareness and growth. The song is a perfect blend of indie rock and folk influences, and is sure to leave listeners feeling energized and inspired.
6. Om Nashi Me
“Om Nashi Me” is a hypnotic, trance-inducing track from Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. The song features a repeating, chant-like melody, a simple beat, and the ethereal vocals of lead singer Jade Castrinos. The lyrics, which are in a made-up language, speak of a deep spiritual connection with the universe and all living things. The song is a perfect example of the band’s eclectic mix of influences, which includes everything from folk and rock to world music and psychedelia. “Om Nashi Me” is a mesmerizing and transcendent piece of music, and is sure to leave listeners feeling transported to another realm.
5. Carries On
“Carries On” is a hopeful and uplifting track from Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. The song features a driving beat, a catchy melody, and the joyous harmonies of the band. The lyrics speak of a journey through life’s ups and downs, with the narrator declaring that he will “keep on singing this song, and I’ll carry on.” The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “oh, it carries on,” is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. The song is a perfect example of the band’s ability to create music that is both joyous and introspective, and is sure to leave listeners feeling inspired and empowered.
4. I Don’t Want to Pray
“I Don’t Want to Pray” is a soulful and introspective track from Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. The song features a slow, bluesy melody, sparse instrumentation, and the powerful vocals of lead singer Alex Ebert. The lyrics speak of a struggle with faith and doubt, with the narrator declaring that he doesn’t want to pray anymore. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Oh Lord, please won’t you find me, I’m lost in this dark,” is a powerful expression of spiritual longing and uncertainty. The song is a raw and emotional exploration of the complexities of faith and belief.
3. Mayla
“Mayla” is a dreamy and atmospheric track from Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. The song features a slow, hypnotic melody, lush harmonies, and the ethereal vocals of lead singer Jade Castrinos. The lyrics speak of a deep connection with nature, with the narrator declaring that “Mayla is my name for the earth.” The song is a perfect example of the band’s ability to create a sense of otherworldly beauty and transcendence through their music.
2. Man on Fire
“Man on Fire” is a dynamic and energetic track from Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. The song features a driving beat, a catchy guitar riff, and the explosive vocals of lead singer Alex Ebert. The lyrics speak of a desire for transformation and self-discovery, with the narrator declaring that he is “burning up for love.” The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “I’m a man on fire,” is a powerful declaration of personal power and agency. The song is a perfect example of the band’s ability to combine rock and gospel influences into a uniquely uplifting and soulful sound.
1. Child
“Child” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad from Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. The song features stripped-down instrumentation, with a simple guitar melody and delicate harmonies. The lyrics speak of the pain and longing of a lost love, with the narrator lamenting that “a child needs his mother, like a mother needs a child.” The song is a poignant and emotional exploration of grief and loss, and is sure to leave listeners feeling moved and introspective.