One of my favourite Radio Lab (short) episodes is about a guy who learns to lucid dream so that he can finally end a recurring nightmare that he’s had for 20 years. If you have 20 minutes, listen to Wake Up and Dream.

I haven’t had any recurring dreams like that before, but I do have recurring symbols and images in my dreams. I’m aware of some of these patterns because I often write down my dreams. My anxiety usually manifests as a rat or some type of rodent.

Here’s a demo of a new song called “Rat Dreams.”

It’s not dark and scary like a bad dream, though. It’s actually sort of melancholy and then kind of cheery. Maybe if I can recall this song when I’m having those nightmares about rats biting at my feet, I’ll be able to turn it around. Maybe the rats will be friendly.

This song will appear on my upcoming album, Hearts and Galaxies.

You can pre-order a copy of Hearts and Galaxies right here.