11 Underrated Mitski Songs: Mitski’s Best

Hey there, music lovers and fellow DJs! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, and today I’ve got something special for all of you. As a passionate DJ and an avid fan of great tunes, I’ve always believed in the power of music to connect and inspire us.

That’s why I’m diving deep into the world of Mitski, an artist whose depth and versatility never cease to amaze me. Despite her growing popularity, there are still so many gems in her discography that haven’t received the spotlight they deserve.

So, I’ve curated a list of 11 underrated Mitski songs that truly showcase her unique talent and emotional depth.

These tracks are not just songs; they’re experiences that have resonated with me in ways I can’t even begin to describe. Whether you’re a long-time Mitski fan or just discovering her, I’m excited to share these hidden treasures with you.

Let’s embark on this musical journey together and uncover the lesser-known yet equally captivating side of Mitski’s music!

Here are the underrated Mitski songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Mitski Songs

Underrated Mitski songs in a list format:

1. “First Love / Late Spring” – Bury Me at Makeout Creek (2014), Double Double Whammy

“First Love / Late Spring” from Mitski’s 2014 album Bury Me at Makeout Creek is a raw, emotional rollercoaster. Released under Double Double Whammy, this track showcases Mitski’s ability to blend poignant lyrics with a melody that captures the bittersweet nature of love and longing. What makes this song stand out is its gradual build-up leading to a powerful crescendo, reflecting the tumultuous nature of first love. It’s a testament to Mitski’s songwriting prowess, displaying her skill in crafting narratives that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. The instrumentation, particularly the use of guitar and drums, complements Mitski’s vocals, adding depth to the emotional landscape of the song.

2. “I Bet on Losing Dogs” – Puberty 2 (2016), Dead Oceans

Mitski’s “I Bet on Losing Dogs” from her 2016 album Puberty 2, released by Dead Oceans, is a melancholic masterpiece. This track delves into the theme of doomed love, with Mitski’s haunting vocals perfectly capturing the essence of rooting for the underdog, even when defeat is imminent. The minimalistic instrumentation, primarily consisting of a somber guitar line, allows the focus to remain on Mitski’s poignant lyrics and emotive singing. The song’s raw vulnerability resonates with anyone who has ever loved something they knew they couldn’t keep. It’s a beautifully tragic piece that demonstrates Mitski’s talent for exploring complex emotions with simplicity and grace.

3. “Townie” – Bury Me at Makeout Creek (2014), Double Double Whammy

“Townie” from Bury Me at Makeout Creek is a high-energy anthem that stands out in Mitski’s 2014 collection. This song, released under Double Double Whammy, captures the restless spirit of youth and the desire to break free from the constraints of small-town life. The driving guitar riffs and dynamic drum beats create a sense of urgency that mirrors the lyrical content. Mitski’s vocal delivery, ranging from soft whispers to powerful exclamations, adds to the song’s intensity. “Townie” is a testament to Mitski’s versatility as an artist, proving she can create electrifying rock tunes just as effectively as introspective ballads.

4. “Because Dreaming Costs Money, My Dear” – Retired from Sad, New Career in Business (2013), Self-Released

This track from Mitski’s 2013 self-released album Retired from Sad, New Career in Business is a hidden gem. “Because Dreaming Costs Money, My Dear” combines classical instrumentation with Mitski’s signature indie rock sound, creating a unique and captivating listening experience. The song explores the theme of the financial and emotional costs of pursuing one’s dreams. Mitski’s vocals, accompanied by a mix of piano and orchestral elements, convey a sense of longing and determination. This song showcases her ability to fuse different musical styles while maintaining a cohesive and impactful narrative.

5. “Texas Reznikoff” – Bury Me at Makeout Creek (2014), Double Double Whammy

“Texas Reznikoff,” from Mitski’s Bury Me at Makeout Creek, is a track that beautifully meld

6. “A Burning Hill” – Puberty 2 (2016), Dead Oceans

“A Burning Hill” is a song from Mitski’s 2016 album Puberty 2, released by Dead Oceans. It’s a stark, minimalist piece that stands in contrast to some of the more complex arrangements in her discography. The song is a masterclass in understatement – Mitski’s vocals are delicate and introspective, set against a simple, plaintive guitar line. Lyrically, it speaks to the experience of accepting life’s disappointments and finding peace in simplicity. This song resonates because of its raw honesty and the way it conveys a deep sense of resignation and hope. It’s a poignant end to the album and a powerful statement on finding beauty in the mundane.

7. “I Will” – Bury Me at Makeout Creek (2014), Double Double Whammy

From the 2014 album Bury Me at Makeout Creek, “I Will” is a testament to Mitski’s ability to write profoundly heartfelt songs. Released under Double Double Whammy, this track stands out with its gentle melody and tender vocals. The song is a promise of unwavering love and support, something that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever cared for someone unconditionally. The minimal instrumentation allows Mitski’s voice and the sincerity of her lyrics to take center stage, creating an intimate and comforting atmosphere. “I Will” is a reminder of the power of simple, honest songwriting.

8. “Carry Me Out” – Bury Me at Makeout Creek (2014), Double Double Whammy

“Carry Me Out,” also from Bury Me at Makeout Creek, showcases a different side of Mitski. This track, enveloped in a dreamy, ethereal atmosphere, is a departure from the more straightforward rock sound of the rest of the album. The song’s haunting melody and Mitski’s echoing vocals create a sense of longing and ethereal beauty. It’s about the desire to escape, to be taken away from the hardships of life. The layering of vocals and instruments builds a rich, immersive soundscape that envelops the listener. “Carry Me Out” is a standout track for its ability to transport you to another world.

9. “Square” – Retired from Sad, New Career in Business (2013), Self-Released

From her 2013 self-released album, “Square” is a song that often goes unnoticed but is a true showcase of Mitski’s songwriting talent. The track features a beautiful piano melody, with Mitski’s vocals weaving a story of complex emotions and vulnerability. The song delves into themes of unrequited love and the pain of emotional distance. Its classical influence, combined with Mitski’s indie sensibilities, creates a unique and poignant listening experience. “Square” stands out for its raw emotional power and the elegant simplicity of its arrangement.

10. “My Body’s Made of Crushed Little Stars” – Puberty 2 (2016), Dead Oceans

From the album Puberty 2, “My Body’s Made of Crushed Little Stars” is a frenetic, high-energy track that captures the anxiety and pressure of modern life. Released by Dead Oceans, this song is a departure from Mitski’s more introspective work, featuring a fast-paced, almost punk-like sound. The lyrics are a stream

11. “Door” – Puberty 2 (2016), Dead Oceans

“Door” from Mitski’s 2016 album Puberty 2, released under Dead Oceans, is an evocative track that often flies under the radar. It’s a song that captures a sense of longing and the desire for escape. The instrumentation is sparse, with a haunting melody that allows Mitski’s voice to shine through, delivering each line with a sense of raw emotion and vulnerability. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of waiting for someone or something to change one’s life, a theme that resonates deeply with the listener. “Door” is a perfect example of Mitski’s ability to convey complex emotions through simple, yet powerful musical compositions. The song’s understated nature adds to its beauty, making it a must-listen for anyone exploring the depths of her discography

Fun Facts: Underrated Mitski Songs

“First Love / Late Spring”

• Unique Recording Process: “First Love / Late Spring” was recorded with a minimalist setup in Mitski’s home, showcasing her ability to create deeply resonant music with limited resources. This approach added an intimate and raw quality to the track.
• Fan Favorite: Despite not being a commercial hit, this song has become a fan favorite, often cited for its emotional depth and Mitski’s powerful vocal performance.

“I Bet on Losing Dogs”

• Metaphorical Lyrics: The song’s title and lyrics use the metaphor of betting on losing dogs as a poignant reflection of investing emotions in doomed relationships or endeavors, showcasing Mitski’s skill in using unique metaphors to convey deep emotions.
• Critical Acclaim: This track received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and was praised for its haunting melody and minimalist arrangement.

“Townie”

• Energetic Live Performances: “Townie” is known for its energetic and powerful live performances. Mitski often brings a raw and intense energy to the stage when performing this song, making it a highlight of her concerts.
• Thematic Depth: The song explores themes of youthful rebellion and the desire for a bigger life beyond the constraints of a small town, resonating with many fans who share similar experiences.

“Because Dreaming Costs Money, My Dear”

• Classical Influence: This song stands out in Mitski’s catalog for its use of classical music elements, influenced by her early musical training. The orchestral arrangement adds a unique texture to her indie rock style.
• Self-Production: Being from a self-released album, this track highlights Mitski’s versatility not only as a songwriter and performer but also as a producer, handling most aspects of the song’s creation herself.

“Texas Reznikoff”

• Title Origin: The title “Texas Reznikoff” is a unique combination that doesn’t have a direct narrative link to the song’s lyrics. It’s a testament to Mitski’s creative approach to titling her works, often leaving listeners intrigued and curious.

“A Burning Hill”

• Album Closer: As the closing track of Puberty 2, “A Burning Hill” is significant for its role in concluding the album on a note of reflective calm, contrasting with some of the more intense themes explored in earlier songs.

“I Will”

• Minimalist Composition: The song’s minimalist composition, featuring primarily a soft guitar and Mitski’s vocals, highlights her ability to create powerful emotional experiences with simple arrangements.
• Lyrical Vulnerability: “I Will” is often noted for its lyrical vulnerability, with Mitski expressing themes of love and devotion in a raw and straightforward manner.

“Carry Me Out”

• Dreamy Soundscapes: This track is notable for its dreamy, almost ethereal soundscapes, showcasing Mitski’s ability to experiment with different sonic textures and create a vivid auditory experience.

“Square”

• Piano-Driven Melody: The piano-driven melody of “Square” is a departure from the guitar-centric sound of many of Mitski’s other tracks, showcasing her versatility as a musician and composer.

“My Body’s Made of Crushed Little Stars”

• Energetic Tempo: Known for its fast-paced, almost punk-like tempo, this song stands out in Mitski’s discography as one of her more energetically intense pieces.
• Lyrical Commentary: The lyrics provide a candid commentary

on the pressures of adulthood and the relentless pace of life, reflecting Mitski’s talent for articulating complex, relatable themes.

“Door”

• Ethereal Vocals: “Door” is particularly noted for Mitski’s ethereal vocal delivery, which adds to the song’s haunting and longing atmosphere.
• Resonant Theme: The theme of waiting for something transformative, expressed in the song, resonates with a wide audience, further highlighting Mitski’s ability to connect with her listeners through universal experiences and emotions.

And there you have it, folks! A journey through Mitski’s lesser-known tracks, each a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her music, these songs are sure to resonate with the depth and diversity of emotions they capture. Happy listening!

Thanks for reading.

TBone