Lauren Hansen doesn’t like to draw attention to herself. Well-organized and laid back, the sophomore marketing major’s cool personality is reflected in her musical tastes. When asked to pick her top 17 songs, Hansen revealed a selection ranging from classic jazz to the infectious sound of Daft Punk.

1. “When You Smile” – The Flaming Lips

The lyrics about love go so well with the music. I just love the little xylophone sounds.

2. “Golden Porsche” – Mogwai

Who says good songs have to have lyrics? The violins and the slow flow of the song take you away.

3. “Staying Alive” – Cursive

This song sounds very fragile and mellow in the beginning, but it builds to a powerful finish.

4. “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” – Al Green

This song puts a bounce in my step.

5. “Absinthe Party at the Fly Honey Warehouse” – Minus the Bear

The singer’s great voice and the fun, night-life themes of their songs make Minus the Bear a great sound track for a night out on the town with a significant other.

6. “Take Five” – Dave Brubeck

I’ve really been getting into jazz lately, especially as studying music. This song has one of the best sounds of all the jazz songs I’ve discovered.

7. “The Difference in the Shades” – Bright Eyes

One of my favorite songs from Bright Eyes. Conor Oberst has such a talent for articulating the emotions felt when dealing with life.

8. “Breathe” – Prodigy

I remember seeing the music video to this song back in my junior-high days. It has a lot of energy; it’s a great song to work out to.

9. “No Joy in Mudville” – Death Cab for Cutie

One of my ultimate favorite bands that I could never get tired of listening to. This song has such a smooth sound.

10. “Push and Pull” – Nikka Costa

In some songs, this woman loves to just rock out, while in others she mellows out a bit and you can appreciate her unique voice. In this song, you get a taste of both sides. This song stresses the importance of human interaction, like with family and friends, and not getting so caught up in an isolating, dull life routine.

11. “Newfound Mass” – The Get Up Kids

I enjoy this song because, to me, it symbolizes growing up and pursuing the things you’ve always wanted to do no matter how far away you are from the ones you love.

12. “House of Jealous Lovers” – The Rapture

If you’re in the mood to dance, scream, sing or work out, this is an excellent song to turn on. The Rapture is just different and refreshing.

13. “These Foolish Things” – Billie Holiday

Perfect jazz song for a broken heart. Billie feels your pain and you can feel hers by the way she sings.

14. “Da Funk” – Daft Punk

This beat will have anyone tapping their foot.

15. “I Am Trying to Break Your Heart” – Wilco

This was the first song I ever listened to by Wilco. The various bells and chimes used really drew me in. The instrumentation makes this song special.

16. “What’s Simple is True” – Jewel

For me, Jewel is the definition of talent. This song is about being in love in the winter time and how she doesn’t want the magical season to end when spring comes.

17. “A Peculiar Noise Called ‘Train Director’” – The Olivia Tremor Control

This is a feel-good song. If you like Of Montreal, you may like this song.