Editor’s note: Check back on this article outside of school to access our embedded Spotify playlist at the bottom of the article.

With AP exams already underway, some students could use more motivation to finish out the year. If you’re this close to chucking your laptop out the window or feeding your AP Student Pack to your dog, here are a couple songs to smooth out frazzled students as they near the end of the school year.

Queen of California// John Mayer

John Mayer is a catalyst of calm. His soothing voice talking of moving westward could make any weak-kneed girl want to walk down side by side with him down I-40 West while dramatically playing guitar. Mayer’s voice will surely drive your testing worries all the way to California.

Sun It Rises// Fleet Foxes

Don’t let the first 23 seconds of the piece deter you. The entire song is very calming. The vocals and instrumentals weave in and out of the piece seamlessly, making it a really great song to play in the background of your study session.

Dissolve Me// alt-j

This song is three minutes and 56 seconds of pick me up. The tune gives off positive vibes even when you’re feeling not so positive about passing the AP test. It’s cheerful and soothing enough without being dull or slow. It’s an espresso shot for your feelings.

Wetsuit// The Vaccines

“You’re all wacked out from lack of sleep.” Although the lyrics weren’t written about AP testing, this song, and most everything by The Vaccines, calms the soul. If you’ve ever thought about getting a degree in beach bumming and living out of your refurbished Vanagon, this is your song, my friend.

As Much As I Ever Could// City and Colour

Happy, sad, or sappy, City and Colour’s voice is like a cozy blanket in a dark room on a chilly day with a mug of something delicious and steaming. City and Colour’s voice is a Folger’s Coffee commercial.

End of the Line// Traveling Wilburys*

I stumbled upon this song while crying at the end of Parks and Rec. A good song (and an even better TV show), I think this one is definitely a stress reliever for a busy week of testing (unless you connect it to the end of your Netflix binge; then it’s probably best to stay away or be teary-eyed at your own risk).

Swim Until You Can’t See Land// Frightened Rabbit

This guy’s Scottish accent is the coolest. The construction of the piece is rolling and repetitive, yet motivating. The sound grows in swells like waves that will lift you away from your problems.

Stubborn Love// The Lumineers

The Lumineers are a familiar band for most people. “Stubborn Love” is one of their most popular songs. The easiness and confidence fits into the theme of relaxation and comfort in this playlist.

Peaks and Troughs// We Were Promised Jetpacks

A little less indie that the rest of the songs, “Peaks and Troughs” will keep you awake at night if you’re really trying to cram in that final formula. The song will engage your mind, yet when the song reaches it’s peak, you’ll be head bobbing along. The conclusion of the song leaves a listener satisfied as if it’s sucked up some of the worry off your shoulders.

If You Want to Stay (Acoustic)// The Griswolds

A personal favorite with an acoustic twist (please hold your groans). Not quite as dull as many acoustics, it keeps nearly the same tempo as the original, but is softened a little bit. This works as great background music for study, or a good, long satisfied hammock hang in the park after the last exam.

*Unavailable on Spotify