The soundtrack for Vancouver
I consider Vancouver to be a laid-back city (when their team's not in the Stanley Cup Final) that's good for first-time travelers to Canada. It has a similar climate to Seattle and Portland, which shouldn't complicate things for Vegas Golden Knights fans not used to snow.
There's also an "80s vibe" to British Columbia's largest city. It feels like you're hitting up the local tavern to watch Pat Quinn's crew take on the Edmonton Oilers on a Saturday night. Considering both angles, here's what the playlist should be:
David Bowie
David Bowie is essential listening for Golden Knights fans. If you've played NHL 99 for the PlayStation, you'll recognize Bowie's iconic tune, "Heroes." Of course, there are also classics such as "Fame" and "Under Pressure" that are worth a play or two.
Modest Mouse
This is where the chill vibe comes in. If you're heading to Rogers Arena for a Golden Knights-Canucks game, be sure to have this band on. There's one tune you'll want to listen to: "Float On." It fits the relaxed, friendly vibe of British Columbia.
U2
When traveling to Whistler, I had the Dublin band playing on loop. U2 is a solid combination with the breathtaking lakes and mountainous (not Adin Hill) landscape of British Columbia. Some hits to play on repeat include "Vertigo," "Elevation," "Where The Streets Have No Name," and "The Miracle (Of Joey Ramone)."
Green Day
Did you know the Vancouver Canucks used "Holiday" as their goal song during the 2010s? It captures the essence of British Columbia hockey: A fun-filled adventure that brings the house down. The hits are endless with the Bay Area band. But some recommendations include "Welcome To Paradise," "Twenty One Guns," and "Wake Me Up (When September Ends)." Speaking of goal songs...
Simple Minds
I went to Vancouver for the sole purpose of listening to "Don't You Forget About Me." The Canucks have a penchant for incredible goal songs and this is no different. The song was a rallying cry for last season's Stanley Cup playoff run and continues to be a smash hit among Canucks fans.
BONUS:
While traveling in Whistler, I came across a band called Wasabi Collective. They entertained the local skiers, snowboarders, and visitors with an array of instruments, ranging from drums to tambourines. It fit the "cool" vibe of Whistler perfectly. I recommend listening to "Blues On My Mind," "Belly Up," and "Forever."
Keeping up with the 80s vibe, also have "Burning Down The House" by the Talking Heads and "Don't You Want Me" by the Human League. Believe it or not, they played both songs at Rogers Arena (specifically the former.
How's that for delicious irony?).