I mix it up here and share various music with my readers, so you’ll see something different each week. You may be into some of what I share, and you may not be into other things, and that’s okay. My goal is to share the things I enjoy and I hope to introduce my audience to something they might not have otherwise heard, and I hope some of it also resonates with you.
Happy New Year!
Song: Death Cab for Cutie - The New Year
“So this is the new year and I don’t feel any different.”
Ring in the new year with Death Cab for Cutie's soul-stirring anthem, "The New Year," from their 2003 album Transatlanticism. Benjamin Gibbard's poignant lyrics capture the complex emotions of fresh beginnings, deftly weaving a narrative around a fictional character demanding to be written about. The song's musical crescendo, a collaborative effort from the entire band, mirrors the explosive energy of a holiday celebration. At the same time, Gibbard's introspective vocals challenge the conventional idea of resolutions and the superficiality of New Year's festivities. It's not just a song; it's a contemplative journey through the nuances of hope, skepticism, and the perennial quest for a clean slate. Listen and let Death Cab For Cutie guide you through the honest reflections that the new year brings.
Playlist: Wine Bar
My partner and I had my brother and his partner over for NYE last night. I was looking for the perfect playlist to accompany the evening and festivities, not just your typical NYE playlist. I came across this Spotify playlist created for me by their AI and it was the perfect blend of music that I enjoy and was a great soundtrack for the evening. This one is going into my new rotation.
Album: Pitchfork - The 50 Best Albums of 2023
Instead of picking just one album this week, I thought we would step into the sonic realm of 2023 with a curated selection of the year's 50 best albums, offering a respite and revelation amid chaos. From the soulful returns of SZA, Sufjan Stevens, and Fever Ray to the groundbreaking releases of emerging talents like Nourished by Time, Amaarae, and Yeule, this list spans genres, showcasing the diverse music landscape. Unveiling surprises such as André 3000's unexpected flute album, these albums have not only marked the year but have set the stage for the evolving future of music. Embrace the rhythm, lyrics, and melodies that defined 2023, a testament to the power of music in times of uncertainty.