January 2017:
January is a month to further investigate the previous year's releases, while simultaneously looking forward to this year's crop.
1. Vitamin String Quartet - "As the World Falls Down"
When I posted this on Spotify last month (Follow theonlydustin to get these mixes the moment I finalize them.), it was a tongue-in-cheek way to address Bowie's deathiversary and the new administration. Now that we actually seem to be teetering on the brink of WWIII, it doesn't feel quite the same.
2. Blitzen Trapper - "All Across This Land"
I wasn't the biggest fan of Blitzen Trapper's eighth album when I first heard it, but the title track deserves a spot in their greatest hits.
3. King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard - "Nuclear Fusion"
Australia's most prolific psych-rock ambassadors are back with another offering of groovy weirdness.
4. Kris Kristofferson - "Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I'll Ever Do Again)"
While I'll always know Kristofferson as Mace Montana, the ringmaster in Big Top Pee-Wee, I hear he's also a pretty good songwriter.
5. Vindata feat. Anderson Paak - "Own Life"
Vindata provides the chaotic, bombastic production for Paak to do his thing.
6. St. Paul & the Broken Bones - "Flow with It (You Got Me Feeling Like)"
Dig the old-school soul vibe.
7. Robert Ellis - "California"
This powerful tune nearly made it onto the Top 40 Songs of 2016.
8. Morgan Heritage - "Strictly Roots"
When the weather gets cold, I like to listen to reggae in an attempt to trick myself into thinking it's warmer outside than it is. Here's a new banger from Denroy Morgan's children, Morgan Heritage.
9. Day Wave - "Stuck"
This was another leftover from last year's list. Jackson Phillips (Day Wave) will be releasing his debut full-length in May as well, so keep your ears open.
10. The Flaming Lips - "Nigdy Nie (Never No)"
Gotta love that fuzzy bass squelch.
Showing posts with label spotify. Show all posts
Showing posts with label spotify. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 7, 2017
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
Top 40 Songs of 2016
So here we are, one year after David Bowie's passing and ten days away from Donald Trump's inauguration. It's easy to view 2016 as a total wreck, the country divided, coupled with a seemingly endless flow of influential artists' deaths. And I'll admit that 2016 was the roughest year of my life personally as well. But to discount 2016 as simply "The Year the Music Died" belies that fact that a lot of excellent music came out. I've made it a habit to create a playlist of my top 40 songs each year, and I'm not going to stop just because it feels like the world is falling apart. Now that we're ten days into 2017, hopefully we can look back on 2016 and say, "Well, at least there were some good tunes."
Now you may be asking, "Speaking of Bowie, why isn't he on this list?" Well, I have very strict rules for eligibility. While Blackstar remains an important album and one that I enjoy, its best tracks were all released prior to 2016. "Killing a Little Time" from the Lazarus recordings almost made it, however. Anyway, don't let that stop you from opening up Spotify and enjoying 2.5 hours of 2016 jams.
26. Matthew Logan Vasquez - "Personal"
Top 40 Songs of 2016
40. A Giant Dog - "Sleep When Dead"
This snagged the opening spot in the final week of December while I was returning to NY via the Lincoln Tunnel on a Chinatown bus. The aggression of the music mixed with the determination in the lyrics makes it the perfect soundtrack to kick those New Year's resolutions into gear.
39. Animal Liberation Orchestra - "Summer Dream (We Got the Time)"
I wasn't aware ALO had released this sunkissed single exclusively through Amazon until I saw them play it live at Brooklyn Bowl in August. It's not on Spotify, so you can check out an acoustic version performed by Zach and Steve below.
This snagged the opening spot in the final week of December while I was returning to NY via the Lincoln Tunnel on a Chinatown bus. The aggression of the music mixed with the determination in the lyrics makes it the perfect soundtrack to kick those New Year's resolutions into gear.
39. Animal Liberation Orchestra - "Summer Dream (We Got the Time)"
I wasn't aware ALO had released this sunkissed single exclusively through Amazon until I saw them play it live at Brooklyn Bowl in August. It's not on Spotify, so you can check out an acoustic version performed by Zach and Steve below.
38. Frightened Rabbit - "Get Out"
I think most of us can relate to this shimmery rock number, wherein lead singer Scott Hutchison compares his love interest to an "uncut drug" that he can't quit and doesn't want to.
37. A Tribe Called Quest - "Movin Backwards"
Phife Dawg's death wasn't a complete surprise to anyone familiar with his battle with diabetes, but what was unexpected was the release of a new Tribe album eight months later. This song addresses police brutality and the confusions and frustrations of being black in a society where racism has returned to the forefront. It also features Anderson Paak, who we'll hear from later on down the list.
I think most of us can relate to this shimmery rock number, wherein lead singer Scott Hutchison compares his love interest to an "uncut drug" that he can't quit and doesn't want to.
37. A Tribe Called Quest - "Movin Backwards"
Phife Dawg's death wasn't a complete surprise to anyone familiar with his battle with diabetes, but what was unexpected was the release of a new Tribe album eight months later. This song addresses police brutality and the confusions and frustrations of being black in a society where racism has returned to the forefront. It also features Anderson Paak, who we'll hear from later on down the list.
36. Daniel Romano - "Maybe Remember Me"
Romano expands upon his country sound with this poppy folk ditty stuffed with vivid imagery like the orange bird that rests upon his shoulder. As if that weren't enough of a stylistic jump, the song's conclusion segues into what feels like an early Red Hot Chili Peppers demo.
35. Billie Marten - "Teeth"
Speaking of birds, you'll hear them chirping in the background of this beautiful performance by Billie Marten. It's so raw, you can hear the clunks of the piano's foot pedals.
34. The Invisible - "Save You"
I hate to resort to a TV on the Radio comparison, but it's the best TVOTR song they never wrote.
I hate to resort to a TV on the Radio comparison, but it's the best TVOTR song they never wrote.
33. Tokyo Police Club - "Not My Girl"
After going solo with last year's All Signs Point to Yes (and talking to me about it on The Next Round), Dave Monks returns with another excellent power-pop number from the first of two 2016 EPs by Tokyo Police Club.
32. My Morning Jacket - "Magic Bullet"
MMJ released this funky plea for peace the Sunday after a particularly brutal week of gun violence in July.
31. Busman's Holiday - "What We Need We Know"
The Rogers brothers hired a 21-piece orchestra to flesh out their DIY acoustic sound on their sophomore record, Popular Cycles. The result is powerful and organic.
The Rogers brothers hired a 21-piece orchestra to flesh out their DIY acoustic sound on their sophomore record, Popular Cycles. The result is powerful and organic.
30. Leonard Cohen - "You Want It Darker"
Another legend gone. Crazily enough, I actually didn't start listening to Cohen until the beginning of 2016. While I prefer his early folk material, the organ and choir make this song absolutely chilling.
Another legend gone. Crazily enough, I actually didn't start listening to Cohen until the beginning of 2016. While I prefer his early folk material, the organ and choir make this song absolutely chilling.
29. Sturgill Simpson - "Brace for Impact (Live a Little)"
A Sailor's Guide to Earth, Simpson's 2016 major label debut, was conceived as an instruction manual for his son. Here, he encourages his son to "live a little" before his impending death. The chugging groove prevents it from being too morbid.
A Sailor's Guide to Earth, Simpson's 2016 major label debut, was conceived as an instruction manual for his son. Here, he encourages his son to "live a little" before his impending death. The chugging groove prevents it from being too morbid.
28. The Heavy - "Not the One"
There's some nice, funky guitarwork here, reminiscent of John Frusciante. I guess it's obvious I was extremely let down by The Getaway and had to get my jollies elsewhere.
There's some nice, funky guitarwork here, reminiscent of John Frusciante. I guess it's obvious I was extremely let down by The Getaway and had to get my jollies elsewhere.
27. Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals - "Shine"
If I were to call Ben Harper's 13th studio album, and first with the Innocent Criminals since 2007's Lifeline, what it is, I'd call it a disappointment. "Shine" is a definite keeper though.
If I were to call Ben Harper's 13th studio album, and first with the Innocent Criminals since 2007's Lifeline, what it is, I'd call it a disappointment. "Shine" is a definite keeper though.
26. Matthew Logan Vasquez - "Personal"
Delta Spirit's frontman may have "struck out on his own," but fortunately, he didn't strike out, as evidenced by this energetic rocker.
25. Beyoncé - "All Night"
So much of Lemonade is about vengeance, but it's on "All Night" that Beyoncé forgives her husband for his infidelities, choosing to salvage their marriage instead of ending it. As a result, it's the most fearless song on the record. Obviously not on Spotify.
So much of Lemonade is about vengeance, but it's on "All Night" that Beyoncé forgives her husband for his infidelities, choosing to salvage their marriage instead of ending it. As a result, it's the most fearless song on the record. Obviously not on Spotify.
24. Radiohead - "Identikit"
I don't consider "True Love Waits" eligible for 2016 consideration. While it would easily be included in the top ten if I did, I feel that having a live version officially released as far back as 2001 disqualifies it. I say this knowing full well that "Identikit" was performed live in 2012, albeit unreleased. Ed O'Brien's frenetic guitar solo is a welcome return to what was sorely missing from The King of Limbs.
I don't consider "True Love Waits" eligible for 2016 consideration. While it would easily be included in the top ten if I did, I feel that having a live version officially released as far back as 2001 disqualifies it. I say this knowing full well that "Identikit" was performed live in 2012, albeit unreleased. Ed O'Brien's frenetic guitar solo is a welcome return to what was sorely missing from The King of Limbs.
23. White Denim - "Holda You (I'm Psycho)"
The Austin band went through some lineup changes for Stiff, reigniting that freewheeling energy that seemed in shorter supply on Corsicana Lemonade for this balls-out rocker.
The Austin band went through some lineup changes for Stiff, reigniting that freewheeling energy that seemed in shorter supply on Corsicana Lemonade for this balls-out rocker.
22. D.D Dumbo - "Walrus"
It took me up until the final week of December to decide between four of the tracks on D.D Dumbo's debut LP, Utopia Defeated, which song should be represented here. I went with the persistent opener that exemplifies Oliver Hugh Perry's multilayered production.
It took me up until the final week of December to decide between four of the tracks on D.D Dumbo's debut LP, Utopia Defeated, which song should be represented here. I went with the persistent opener that exemplifies Oliver Hugh Perry's multilayered production.
21. The Stray Birds - "Third Day in a Row"
I saw more sunrises last year than any year in my life. Honestly, I probably saw the majority of the 366, so this one speaks to me.
20. Caleb Caudle - "Tuscaloosa"
One of my good friends used to work with this guy at a pizzeria in North Carolina, which is funny because you'd never a expect pizza guy to be capable of writing a line as moving as "Well, I'm not lookin' to be fixed / Just understand that parts are broken."
19. Aloha - "Faraway Eyes"
I'd heard of Aloha before 2016, but they didn't really demand my attention until Little Windows Cut Right Through, which would surely be on my albums of the year list if I made one. It was hard selecting just one track, but the lyric "I know you're scared / I'm scared too" resonated with me, even if it was mainly due to a Rory Scovel joke.
I'd heard of Aloha before 2016, but they didn't really demand my attention until Little Windows Cut Right Through, which would surely be on my albums of the year list if I made one. It was hard selecting just one track, but the lyric "I know you're scared / I'm scared too" resonated with me, even if it was mainly due to a Rory Scovel joke.
18. Bruno Mars - "24K Magic"
While not as infectious as his Mark Ronson collaboration "Uptown Funk," Mr. Mars has returned with another slice of retro R&B to get your ass (and your ugly-ass friends) on the dance floor.
While not as infectious as his Mark Ronson collaboration "Uptown Funk," Mr. Mars has returned with another slice of retro R&B to get your ass (and your ugly-ass friends) on the dance floor.
17. Kevin Morby - "I Have Been to the Mountain"
My favorite guitar solo of the year.
My favorite guitar solo of the year.
16. Bear Hands - "Marathon Man"
I actually discovered this song on Spotify. It was the first Bear Hands tune I heard, and it inspired me to promptly order their back catalog on vinyl. Their latest effort, You'll Pay for This, was a bit underwhelming, so my rabid fandom has tapered off, but I still enjoy it.
I actually discovered this song on Spotify. It was the first Bear Hands tune I heard, and it inspired me to promptly order their back catalog on vinyl. Their latest effort, You'll Pay for This, was a bit underwhelming, so my rabid fandom has tapered off, but I still enjoy it.
15. Dawes - "Roll with the Punches"
Its theme of persistence is characterized by the galvanic organ.
Its theme of persistence is characterized by the galvanic organ.
14. Will Joseph Cook - "Girls Like Me"
You can definitely hear the Talking Heads influence, but at only 18, Cook has plenty of time to grow. If he's writing songs this catchy now, just wait until he gets some patina on him.
You can definitely hear the Talking Heads influence, but at only 18, Cook has plenty of time to grow. If he's writing songs this catchy now, just wait until he gets some patina on him.
13. Catfish & the Bottlemen - "Soundcheck"
You could teach a songwriting class with this one, which merges its big pop chorus with esoteric verses, even going as far as to use the term "fag break." The details paint a fuller picture, allowing the listener to relate.
You could teach a songwriting class with this one, which merges its big pop chorus with esoteric verses, even going as far as to use the term "fag break." The details paint a fuller picture, allowing the listener to relate.
12. Pop Etc - "Please, Don't Forget Me"
Chris Chu didn't forget the '80s when he crafted the lively lead-off track to Souvenir. Hear him discuss how the band whittled down literally hundreds of ideas to the album's ten tunes on The Next Round.
Chris Chu didn't forget the '80s when he crafted the lively lead-off track to Souvenir. Hear him discuss how the band whittled down literally hundreds of ideas to the album's ten tunes on The Next Round.
11. Honne feat. Izzy Bizu - "Someone That Loves You"
British songbird Izzy Bizu assists electronic soul duo Honne to create the most danceable number on Warm on a Cold Night.
British songbird Izzy Bizu assists electronic soul duo Honne to create the most danceable number on Warm on a Cold Night.
10. Nico Yaryan - "Witch Love"
Yaryan wrote What a Tease while working at a cannabis farm in Humboldt County and spending time with a romantic interest in Amsterdam. The laid-back influence of the weed can be heard in the music. It's not groundbreaking by any means, but it's refreshing to hear someone crooning so genuinely.
Yaryan wrote What a Tease while working at a cannabis farm in Humboldt County and spending time with a romantic interest in Amsterdam. The laid-back influence of the weed can be heard in the music. It's not groundbreaking by any means, but it's refreshing to hear someone crooning so genuinely.
9. Emily King - "Focus"
In July, Emily King released a deluxe edition of last year's The Switch, adding this among the bonus tracks and proving it worth the upgrade. She discussed the album's expansion on my podcast.
In July, Emily King released a deluxe edition of last year's The Switch, adding this among the bonus tracks and proving it worth the upgrade. She discussed the album's expansion on my podcast.
8. Bon Iver - "33 God"
Electronic artists and lo-fi balladeers have been experimenting with sound quality for years, so it wasn't exactly a new idea when Justin Vernon did it on 22, A Million. In fact, it's often frustrating to have the songs obscured as such. Be that as it may, it forced the studious listener to question its purpose. Could it be part of some puzzle to unlock, or is it all just pretentious hipsterism? If it weren't so damn melodic, I'd strongly consider it the latter.
7. Eric Krasno - "Waiting on Your Love"
Soulive's guitarist steps solidly into the spotlight on this bluesy funk cut.
6. Esmé Patterson - "Feel Right"
Esmé's hiccups and howls coalesced into my favorite individual vocal performance of the year.
5. Cris Jacobs - "Jack the Whistle & the Hammer"
If you can listen to this without bobbing your head or tapping your foot, stay the fuck away from me. If you'd like to hear more about the genesis of the titular characters, check out my podcast interview with Cris.
If you can listen to this without bobbing your head or tapping your foot, stay the fuck away from me. If you'd like to hear more about the genesis of the titular characters, check out my podcast interview with Cris.
4. Kishi Bashi - "Honeybody"
K. Ishibashi was having quite the slump when he sat down to write for record #3, feeling like he was going through the motions while simultaneously watching his marriage suffer, so it's amazing that such a joyous nugget came out of it.
K. Ishibashi was having quite the slump when he sat down to write for record #3, feeling like he was going through the motions while simultaneously watching his marriage suffer, so it's amazing that such a joyous nugget came out of it.
3. Hero the Band - "Expectations"
I'm not sure why this is no longer available on Spotify, but it was in constant rotation on my iPod in the early months of the year, providing a 4-minute serotonin boost whenever I needed.
I'm not sure why this is no longer available on Spotify, but it was in constant rotation on my iPod in the early months of the year, providing a 4-minute serotonin boost whenever I needed.
2. Francis & the Lights feat. Bon Iver - "Friends"
For this song, Francis invented a special audio codec, dubbed the Prismizer. The result is similar to Auto-Tune, yet it retains the brightness of the human voice. It's especially effective when combined with a call for friendship in these rough, divisive times.
For this song, Francis invented a special audio codec, dubbed the Prismizer. The result is similar to Auto-Tune, yet it retains the brightness of the human voice. It's especially effective when combined with a call for friendship in these rough, divisive times.
1. Anderson Paak - "Come Down"
We may have lost a lot of legends this past year, but hip-hop/R&B artist Anderson Paak has been staking his claim as a star of the future. I could've picked several of the songs from Paak's fantastic Malibu album to include in this list, but my limit is one per act. I decided to go with "Come Down" because it's supremely funky and fun despite the complexity of its syncopation and production. He's nominated for two Grammys, including Best New Artist, so you'd do well to hop in the Paak seat now.
We may have lost a lot of legends this past year, but hip-hop/R&B artist Anderson Paak has been staking his claim as a star of the future. I could've picked several of the songs from Paak's fantastic Malibu album to include in this list, but my limit is one per act. I decided to go with "Come Down" because it's supremely funky and fun despite the complexity of its syncopation and production. He's nominated for two Grammys, including Best New Artist, so you'd do well to hop in the Paak seat now.
Monday, December 5, 2016
Monthly Mix #23: December 2016 (Secular)
December 2016 (Secular):
I'm not solely listening to Christmas carols right now, so neither should you.
1. Bruno Mars - "24K Magic"
While not the instantly likable "Uptown Funk," I think I was hooked after three listens.
2. Sing Street - "Drive It Like You Stole It"
I was charmed by John Carney's coming-of-age film when I saw it over Thanksgiving break. I'd recommend the movie (currently streaming on Netflix) and this Hall & Oates-inspired ditty.
3. The Game feat. Too $hort, Problem, AV, & Eric Bellinger - "Or Nah"
Sorry if it's a little crass, but it's got that beat. Eric Bellinger's hook is smooth AF too.
4. John Legend feat. Brittany Howard - "Darkness & Light"
Legend enlists Alabama Shakes' frontwoman for the sultry title track of his fifth studio album (sixth if you count his collaboration with the Roots).
5. Neil Young - "Here for You"
Back in September, this was the father-daughter dance at my friend's wedding. I really liked the choice, and Neil's catalog is finally available on Spotify.
6. Johnny Marr - "Easy Money"
Propulsion epitomized.
7. Jim James - "Same Old Lie"
While it may feel like our current political climate is drastically different than what we've come to expect, Jim reminds us that in fact, "it's the same old lie."
8. Syreeta - "I Love Every Little Thing About You"
Syreeta recorded this cover of Stevie Wonder's song in the midst of their divorce, one-upping the original and adding a whole new layer of depth.
9. Jack Garratt feat. Anderson Paak - "Worry"
I'm not a big Jack Garratt fan, but Paak throws down one of his top verses here.
10. Mike Doughty - "I Can't Believe I Found You in That Town"
This was on my Top 40 of 2015 list when it was merely a demo on Mike's Drip.fm feed. While I still prefer the stripped-down original over the DJ Good Goose production that you'll hear here, the effective lyrics remain unchanged.
I'm not solely listening to Christmas carols right now, so neither should you.
1. Bruno Mars - "24K Magic"
While not the instantly likable "Uptown Funk," I think I was hooked after three listens.
2. Sing Street - "Drive It Like You Stole It"
I was charmed by John Carney's coming-of-age film when I saw it over Thanksgiving break. I'd recommend the movie (currently streaming on Netflix) and this Hall & Oates-inspired ditty.
3. The Game feat. Too $hort, Problem, AV, & Eric Bellinger - "Or Nah"
Sorry if it's a little crass, but it's got that beat. Eric Bellinger's hook is smooth AF too.
4. John Legend feat. Brittany Howard - "Darkness & Light"
Legend enlists Alabama Shakes' frontwoman for the sultry title track of his fifth studio album (sixth if you count his collaboration with the Roots).
5. Neil Young - "Here for You"
Back in September, this was the father-daughter dance at my friend's wedding. I really liked the choice, and Neil's catalog is finally available on Spotify.
6. Johnny Marr - "Easy Money"
Propulsion epitomized.
7. Jim James - "Same Old Lie"
While it may feel like our current political climate is drastically different than what we've come to expect, Jim reminds us that in fact, "it's the same old lie."
8. Syreeta - "I Love Every Little Thing About You"
Syreeta recorded this cover of Stevie Wonder's song in the midst of their divorce, one-upping the original and adding a whole new layer of depth.
9. Jack Garratt feat. Anderson Paak - "Worry"
I'm not a big Jack Garratt fan, but Paak throws down one of his top verses here.
10. Mike Doughty - "I Can't Believe I Found You in That Town"
This was on my Top 40 of 2015 list when it was merely a demo on Mike's Drip.fm feed. While I still prefer the stripped-down original over the DJ Good Goose production that you'll hear here, the effective lyrics remain unchanged.
Monthly Mix #22 - December 2016 (Holiday)
December 2016 (Holiday):
The holidays are approaching.
1. The Staple Singers - "The Last Month of the Year"
It's the last month of the year.
2. Mariah Carey - "All I Want for Christmas is You"
Like it or not, this is now a bonafide Christmas classic.
3. David Bazan - "Happy Xmas (War is Over)"
Bazan puts his lo-fi spin on Lennon as part of his new Christmas record, Dark Sacred Night.
4. Kacey Musgraves feat. Leon Bridges - "Present Without a Bow"
Cute seasonal number featuring two of music's shiniest new stars.
5. Grace Potter - "Naughty, Naughty Children (Better Start Actin' Nice)"
Potter looks at the bright side of getting coal for Christmas.
6. Andy Williams - "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year"
The other day, I put this on and pretended I was living in a musical. So fun. I'm not ashamed to admit that, so try it for yourself.
7. Wham! - "Last Christmas"
No comment.
8. Jeremy Messersmith - "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"
Starts off like a bedroom demo until the strings sneak in and open the door. Remember when Jeremy was on the podcast?
9. Stevie Wonder - "Merry Christmas/Happy Kwanzaa"
Taken from an UK promotional single, this interesting little piece mashes up "Jingle Bells" with Wonder's "Isn't She Lovely."
10. David Bowie & Bing Crosby - "Peace on Earth/The Little Drummer Boy"
This has always been my Uncle Mike's favorite holiday song, and it's even more poignant with Bowie's passing this year.
The holidays are approaching.
1. The Staple Singers - "The Last Month of the Year"
It's the last month of the year.
2. Mariah Carey - "All I Want for Christmas is You"
Like it or not, this is now a bonafide Christmas classic.
3. David Bazan - "Happy Xmas (War is Over)"
Bazan puts his lo-fi spin on Lennon as part of his new Christmas record, Dark Sacred Night.
4. Kacey Musgraves feat. Leon Bridges - "Present Without a Bow"
Cute seasonal number featuring two of music's shiniest new stars.
5. Grace Potter - "Naughty, Naughty Children (Better Start Actin' Nice)"
Potter looks at the bright side of getting coal for Christmas.
6. Andy Williams - "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year"
The other day, I put this on and pretended I was living in a musical. So fun. I'm not ashamed to admit that, so try it for yourself.
7. Wham! - "Last Christmas"
No comment.
8. Jeremy Messersmith - "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"
Starts off like a bedroom demo until the strings sneak in and open the door. Remember when Jeremy was on the podcast?
9. Stevie Wonder - "Merry Christmas/Happy Kwanzaa"
Taken from an UK promotional single, this interesting little piece mashes up "Jingle Bells" with Wonder's "Isn't She Lovely."
10. David Bowie & Bing Crosby - "Peace on Earth/The Little Drummer Boy"
This has always been my Uncle Mike's favorite holiday song, and it's even more poignant with Bowie's passing this year.
Tuesday, November 22, 2016
Monthly Mix #21: November 2016
November 2016:
The end might be near. At least we have music.
1. Leonard Cohen - "You Want It Darker"
Another legend gone. Fortunately, he took Bowie's cue and released one dark-ass final record right before he passed.
2. Mayer Hawthorne - "Time for Love"
Mayer Hawthorne returns to form on this track off his Party of One EP.
3. The Panics - "Passenger Side"
This Australian band has been around since 2002, but this is my first time hearing them. I've got some homework to do.
4. Honus Honus - "Heavy Jesus"
Man Man's frontman goes solo.
5. A Tribe Called Quest - "Movin Backwards"
A lot of people have been singing the praises of the new Tribe album. I dig it, but I'm not blown away. Three guesses who's featured on this track, hehe.
6. Busman's Holiday - "What We Need We Know"
For their sophomore album, the Rogers brothers did something very non-sophomoric: they added a 21-piece orchestra. This is the powerful result.
7. D.D Dumbo - "Cortisol"
It was hard to narrow it down to one song from Utopia Defeated, Oliver Perry's first full-length, because I really love the instrumentation and production, but this frenetic track won out.
8. Hayley Kiyoko - "One Bad Night"
Yes, this is a pop song, and yes, I like it.
9. Dawes - "Roll with the Punches"
That organ though.
10. Harry Belafonte - "Jump in the Line"
It's been a shitty month, a shitty year even. There's a reason this song is at the end of Beetlejuice. It's too hard not to dance and sing along. Stay positive. Never lose hope.
The end might be near. At least we have music.
1. Leonard Cohen - "You Want It Darker"
Another legend gone. Fortunately, he took Bowie's cue and released one dark-ass final record right before he passed.
2. Mayer Hawthorne - "Time for Love"
Mayer Hawthorne returns to form on this track off his Party of One EP.
3. The Panics - "Passenger Side"
This Australian band has been around since 2002, but this is my first time hearing them. I've got some homework to do.
4. Honus Honus - "Heavy Jesus"
Man Man's frontman goes solo.
5. A Tribe Called Quest - "Movin Backwards"
A lot of people have been singing the praises of the new Tribe album. I dig it, but I'm not blown away. Three guesses who's featured on this track, hehe.
6. Busman's Holiday - "What We Need We Know"
For their sophomore album, the Rogers brothers did something very non-sophomoric: they added a 21-piece orchestra. This is the powerful result.
7. D.D Dumbo - "Cortisol"
It was hard to narrow it down to one song from Utopia Defeated, Oliver Perry's first full-length, because I really love the instrumentation and production, but this frenetic track won out.
8. Hayley Kiyoko - "One Bad Night"
Yes, this is a pop song, and yes, I like it.
9. Dawes - "Roll with the Punches"
That organ though.
10. Harry Belafonte - "Jump in the Line"
It's been a shitty month, a shitty year even. There's a reason this song is at the end of Beetlejuice. It's too hard not to dance and sing along. Stay positive. Never lose hope.
Wednesday, November 16, 2016
Monthly Mix #20: October 2016
October 2016:
1. Cris Jacobs - "Bone Digger"
I made the playlist in October before the election. Maybe this was a "calm before the storm"-type deal? Keep in mind that you can get these lists the moment I finalize them if you follow me on Spotify.
1. Cris Jacobs - "Bone Digger"
Cris Jacobs' Dust to Gold is shaping up to be one of my favorite records of the year. Here's one example as to why. (Listen to podcast interview here.)
2. Rage Against the Machine - "Guerrilla Radio"
2. Rage Against the Machine - "Guerrilla Radio"
This country doesn't need Prophets of Rage, or a Zack de la Rocha solo LP drowned in El-P's murky production. It needs Rage Against the Machine.
3. Bon Iver - "33 God"
3. Bon Iver - "33 God"
There's a lot to unpack in Bon Iver's 22, A Million. Some of its songs feel unfinished, but this is easily its most fully realized number.
4. Børns - "Electric Love"
4. Børns - "Electric Love"
I'll admit that I didn't give Børns a listen until now because of that ø.
5. Solange - "Junie"
5. Solange - "Junie"
Imagine trying to live up to your successful older sibling. Now imagine that sibling is Beyoncé. That's right. You can't. Solange knows that, so she enlisted heavyweights Raphael Saadiq and Andre 3000 to guide her on this slice of funk.
6. Nx Worries - "Fkku"
6. Nx Worries - "Fkku"
Despite my love of all things Anderson Paak, it pains me to say that Yes Lawd! is a bit of a letdown. This final track cracks me up though. Why does it end so early???
7. Eagles - "One of These Nights"
7. Eagles - "One of These Nights"
This is my favorite Eagles song and album.
8. Matthew Logan Vasquez - "Personal"
8. Matthew Logan Vasquez - "Personal"
Delta Spirit's charismatic frontman "strikes out on his own." I slept on this record until recently. You shouldn't.
9. Skinny Lister - "Carry"
9. Skinny Lister - "Carry"
I like to play with words.
10. Gold Clubb - "Sweat It"
10. Gold Clubb - "Sweat It"
This tune by the side project of Nicky Francis from the Majorleans (Listen to podcast interview here.) made it onto my Top 40 Songs of 2015 list, but at the time, it was only available on Soundcloud. Now that it's on Spotify, you can give it the listen it deserves.
Friday, September 30, 2016
Monthly Mix #19: September 2016
September 2016:
It's been a weird, scattered month. I think the playlist reflects that.
1. Kishi Bashi - "Honeybody"
The closing track from K's new album, Sonderlust. It exemplifies each stage of his solo career from modified violin loops to string quartets to electro-pop.
2. Kush Mody feat. Anderson Paak - "Freight Train"
Your monthly dose of Paak.
3. Terra Lightfoot - "No Hurry"
Just a really solid rock song.
4. Booker T. feat. Mayer Hawthorne - "Sound the Alarm"
I was generally let down by Hawthorne's latest LP, so I turned to this one from Booker T.'s 2013 record of the same name.
5. Amos Lee - "Lightly"
Amos makes a pretty compelling case for being alone.
6. Miniature Tigers - "Crying in the Sunshine"
I like hearing acoustic guitar in my Miniature Tigers songs.
7. Dawes - "One of Us"
I appreciate that Dawes are always expanding their sound. This makes a bold statement as the opener on We're All Gonna Die.
8. UB40 - "The Way You Do the Things You Do"
The Temptations version was stuck in my head, but with the sax part from this cover.
9. Roosevelt - "Night Moves"
This will tide you over until the next Daft Punk or Phoenix album.
10. Radiohead - "True Love Waits"
I almost cried the first time I heard the studio version back in May. It almost made it onto each monthly mix since, but it was never the right time. It had to wait.
It's been a weird, scattered month. I think the playlist reflects that.
1. Kishi Bashi - "Honeybody"
The closing track from K's new album, Sonderlust. It exemplifies each stage of his solo career from modified violin loops to string quartets to electro-pop.
2. Kush Mody feat. Anderson Paak - "Freight Train"
Your monthly dose of Paak.
3. Terra Lightfoot - "No Hurry"
Just a really solid rock song.
4. Booker T. feat. Mayer Hawthorne - "Sound the Alarm"
I was generally let down by Hawthorne's latest LP, so I turned to this one from Booker T.'s 2013 record of the same name.
5. Amos Lee - "Lightly"
Amos makes a pretty compelling case for being alone.
6. Miniature Tigers - "Crying in the Sunshine"
I like hearing acoustic guitar in my Miniature Tigers songs.
7. Dawes - "One of Us"
I appreciate that Dawes are always expanding their sound. This makes a bold statement as the opener on We're All Gonna Die.
8. UB40 - "The Way You Do the Things You Do"
The Temptations version was stuck in my head, but with the sax part from this cover.
9. Roosevelt - "Night Moves"
This will tide you over until the next Daft Punk or Phoenix album.
10. Radiohead - "True Love Waits"
I almost cried the first time I heard the studio version back in May. It almost made it onto each monthly mix since, but it was never the right time. It had to wait.
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
Monthly Mix #18: August 2016
August 2016:
These songs are all about how we deal with time. Getting reflective as the summer winds down.
1. Animal Liberation Orchestra - "The Ticket"
Finally got to see ALO again. I bought my ticket back in April.
2. Catfish & the Bottlemen - "7"
Van McCann's lyrics give a uniquely honest perspective on relationships.
3. Anderson Paak feat. BJ the Chicago Kid - "The Waters"
More Paak. Yes, lawd!
4. Eric Krasno - "Waiting on Your Love"
A hunk of burning funk from the Soulive/Lettuce axeman.
5. Kevin Morby - "I Have Been to the Mountain"
Dig that solo.
6. Son Little - "Nice Dreams"
Son Little's debut LP from last year is still finding new ways to affect me.
7. G. Love & Special Sauce - "Nothing Else Quite Like Home"
I went home to Ocean City, MD for a few days. G. Love was in town, too.
8. Coin - "It's a Trap"
This is poppier than I usually like and also not about Admiral Ackbar, but it's good.
9. Radiation City - "Milky White"
This is what the new Lucius record should've sounded like.
10. Pinegrove - "New Friends"
"The end of summer and I'm still in love with her."
These songs are all about how we deal with time. Getting reflective as the summer winds down.
1. Animal Liberation Orchestra - "The Ticket"
Finally got to see ALO again. I bought my ticket back in April.
2. Catfish & the Bottlemen - "7"
Van McCann's lyrics give a uniquely honest perspective on relationships.
3. Anderson Paak feat. BJ the Chicago Kid - "The Waters"
More Paak. Yes, lawd!
4. Eric Krasno - "Waiting on Your Love"
A hunk of burning funk from the Soulive/Lettuce axeman.
5. Kevin Morby - "I Have Been to the Mountain"
Dig that solo.
6. Son Little - "Nice Dreams"
Son Little's debut LP from last year is still finding new ways to affect me.
7. G. Love & Special Sauce - "Nothing Else Quite Like Home"
I went home to Ocean City, MD for a few days. G. Love was in town, too.
8. Coin - "It's a Trap"
This is poppier than I usually like and also not about Admiral Ackbar, but it's good.
9. Radiation City - "Milky White"
This is what the new Lucius record should've sounded like.
10. Pinegrove - "New Friends"
"The end of summer and I'm still in love with her."
Monday, July 25, 2016
Monthly Mix #17: July 2016
July 2016:
Mixing in some old in with the new. July's been a slow release month.
1. Cookies - "Go Back"
July 17 was Cookies Day. Remember when I talked to Ben Sterling about it?
2. Emily King - "Focus"
3. Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings - "Midnight Rider"
4. Son Lux feat. Hanna Benn - "You Don't Own Me"
6. Francis & the Lights feat. Bon Iver - "Friends"
7. Daryl Hall & John Oates - "She's Gone"
8. Esmé Patterson - "Feel Right"
9. Tokyo Police Club - "Not My Girl"
10. Floating Action - "Don't Stop Loving Me Now"
Mixing in some old in with the new. July's been a slow release month.
1. Cookies - "Go Back"
July 17 was Cookies Day. Remember when I talked to Ben Sterling about it?
2. Emily King - "Focus"
This new single ensures your standard edition of The Switch is due for an upgrade to the deluxe.
3. Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings - "Midnight Rider"
Sharon & the Dap-Kings take this Allman Brothers classic for a spin.
4. Son Lux feat. Hanna Benn - "You Don't Own Me"
A remake of his "You Don't Know Me," this time with marching band instrumentation.
5. The Game feat. Anderson Paak & Sonyae - "Crenshaw/80s & Cocaine"
I've basically been listening to only Anderson Paak for the past month. I put him on last month's mix though, so this is just an excuse to squeeze him back in on a technicality. The Game has definitely had stronger verses (How many times can you rhyme the n-word with itself?), but I love that blaxploitation soundtrack funk.
6. Francis & the Lights feat. Bon Iver - "Friends"
Good to hear from Bon Iver again.
7. Daryl Hall & John Oates - "She's Gone"
I saw Oates & Hall at PNC Bank Arts Center this month, so they've been on heavy rotation. Did you know that John Oates hates that people call the band Hall & Oates? In an interview with Esquire, he said, "There isn't one album that says Hall & Oates. It's always Daryl Hall & John Oates. From the very beginning. People never note that. The idea of 'Hall & Oates,' this two-headed monster, this thing, is not anything we've ever wanted or liked."
8. Esmé Patterson - "Feel Right"
An exceptional vocal performance.
9. Tokyo Police Club - "Not My Girl"
TPC are such a fun band to listen to in the summer.
10. Floating Action - "Don't Stop Loving Me Now"
This has been on my list to include since the beginning of the year, but I didn't find the right spot for it until now. Lo-fi reggae vibes.
Friday, June 17, 2016
Monthly Mix #16: June 2016
June 2016:
There's only one song on this list older than 2015. I've been rabidly searching for new music.
1. Joywave - "Destruction"
I love the intro.
2. Robert Ellis - "How I Love You"
Remember when Robert was on the podcast and talked about the new songs he was working on? Well, his self-titled fourth album came out on the 3rd.
3. Anderson Paak - "Come Down"
Paak's record sounds like if Black Messiah had been mixed properly. Really digging this.
4. Beck - "Dreams"
Beck blew me away at Mountain Jam. This was the song I had the most fun dancing to.
5. Nico Yaryan - "Witch Love"
It takes real talent to write a song like this. The lyrics are fairly simple, but the way Yaryan sings them sounds so genuine. What's most notable, however, is how you can hear the Beatles' influence, but unlike most artists' Beatles-inspired numbers, it doesn't just ape their style.
6. Will Joseph Cook - "Girls Like Me"
Discovered on Spotify. David Byrne vibes.
7. The Invisible - "Save You"
It reminds me of my favorite type of TV on the Radio song.
8. Flo Rida - "My House"
I don't listen to the radio, so I didn't know this was from last year when it came on in my friend's car. The keyboard that checks in at the one-minute mark is badass. I have a framed photograph of Flo Rida on my bedside table as a joke, but the joke's getting less funny with every spin of this tune.
9. Frank Turner - "Substitute"
I've been reading Frank's memoir The Road Beneath My Feet, and this is one of my favorite songs.
10. Band of Horses - "Even Still"
The pensive closing track off their new LP, Why Are You OK.
There's only one song on this list older than 2015. I've been rabidly searching for new music.
1. Joywave - "Destruction"
I love the intro.
2. Robert Ellis - "How I Love You"
Remember when Robert was on the podcast and talked about the new songs he was working on? Well, his self-titled fourth album came out on the 3rd.
3. Anderson Paak - "Come Down"
Paak's record sounds like if Black Messiah had been mixed properly. Really digging this.
4. Beck - "Dreams"
Beck blew me away at Mountain Jam. This was the song I had the most fun dancing to.
5. Nico Yaryan - "Witch Love"
It takes real talent to write a song like this. The lyrics are fairly simple, but the way Yaryan sings them sounds so genuine. What's most notable, however, is how you can hear the Beatles' influence, but unlike most artists' Beatles-inspired numbers, it doesn't just ape their style.
6. Will Joseph Cook - "Girls Like Me"
Discovered on Spotify. David Byrne vibes.
7. The Invisible - "Save You"
It reminds me of my favorite type of TV on the Radio song.
8. Flo Rida - "My House"
I don't listen to the radio, so I didn't know this was from last year when it came on in my friend's car. The keyboard that checks in at the one-minute mark is badass. I have a framed photograph of Flo Rida on my bedside table as a joke, but the joke's getting less funny with every spin of this tune.
9. Frank Turner - "Substitute"
I've been reading Frank's memoir The Road Beneath My Feet, and this is one of my favorite songs.
10. Band of Horses - "Even Still"
The pensive closing track off their new LP, Why Are You OK.
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