May 2007 List

“Add Your Light to Mine, Baby”: Lucky Soul
(The Great Unwanted, 2007)
The editor of PopMatters enthusiastically shared the music of Lucky Soul with me earlier this month. The UK-based band specializes in updating swinging ‘60s pop/girl-group music sensibilities, replete with lyrics immersed in heartbreak but sung with a voice that smiles through the tears.

“Get Lost”: Patrick Wolf
(The Magic Position, 2007)
I sampled Patrick Wolf at Virgin Megastore last week (how I miss Tower Records….), as he’s apparently quite the exceptional 23-year old artist. His album is alternately catchy and impenetrable to my ears (especially the nightmarish “Secret Garden” interlude) but “Get Lost” evokes a wondrous world of stardust and rainbow clouds.

“There’s a Limit to Your Love”: Feist
(The Reminder, 2007)
Ahh…Feist! The Reminder is shaping up to be one of my favorite albums so far this year; it’s a fantastic companion to her Let It Die album, which Mark Lee introduced me to! Experiencing the warmth of Feist's voice and the frankness of her lyrics on “There’s a Limit to Your Love” is four minutes of pop perfection.

“Samba Na Sola”: CéU
(CéU, 2007)
Hailing from São Paulo, CéU blends samba, reggae, soul, and electronica together in one luscious package. Nearly any one of the songs from her debut album could make my blog list but “Samba Na Sola” never dulls or disappoints upon repeated listening.

“Who Stole the Moon?”: Pharaoh’s Dream
(Wistful Elegance, 2007)
My good friend David Nathan (a.ka. “The British Ambassador of Soul) is the voice behind Pharaoh’s Dream and even co-wrote my favorite track from the album, “Who Stole the Moon?” Not only is the song the perfect soundtrack for a warm May evening but it has a melody that pleasantly lingers long after the tune ends.

April 2007 List

“Okay”: Macy Gray
(Big, 2007)
As I stood on line at the stroke of midnight at Virgin Records to pick up Stevie Nicks’ Crystal Visions two weeks ago, I heard this new track by Macy Gray blasting over the speakers. I now have it in my possession and it’s been making me smile after a rather dismal weekend and on this very dreary NYC afternoon!

“It’s All True”: Tracey Thorn
(Out of the Woods, 2007)
A couple of songs by Everything But the Girl stand in the reserves of my musical memory (“Missing” and “Driving”) so Tracey Thorn’s voice is well-etched in my cranium. The retro-‘80s drive of this song is charming and sounds like it could have been on a Eurythmics album from 1983…ahh, memories!

“Someone to Love”: Fountains of Wayne
(Traffic and Weather, 2007)
I just discovered this song today courtesy of PopMatters though I’m ashamed to admit I’d never heard Fountains of Wayne’s music before. Something compelled me to sample their music today and I recommend anyone in need of a lift to hear “Someone to Love”!

“Perfect Dream”: Three5Human
(A Swig from the Acid Bottle, 2007)
Three5Human’s name stems from the time in our history when black Americans were counted as three-fifths a person towards representation in the House of Representatives. Three5Human’s blistering rock is a catharsis of such social injustices; the song that appeals to me most on their new album is “Perfect Dream". (In memory of the 31 who perished at Virginia Tech. today.)

“That’s How Heartaches are Made”: Deniece Williams
(Love, Niecy Style, 2007)
I had the pleasure of interviewing Deniece Williams last Friday in the middle of Central Park for David Nathan’s Soulmusic.com on the occasion of her new album. I’ve always loved “That’s How Heartaches Are Made” and her heartfelt version is simply a joy to behold!

March 2007 List

“Who Cares”: Patti Austin
(Avant-Gershwin, 2007)
Does this song make me smile…and I certainly need a smile! Patti Austin infuses this Gershwin standard with an ebullient, Latin-tinged rhythm and a soaring vocal performance that belies the seeming ambivalence of the song title; I just love it.

“Caçada”: Bebel Gilberto
(Momento, 2007)
In researching Bebel Gilberto’s new album, I learned that my favorite track on the record was written by her uncle, Chico Buarque. The foundation for “Caçada” is steeped in forró, a style of music indigenous to the northeast region of Brazil and characterized by lilting Pífanos flutes (always a plus!) and pounding Zabumba drums.

“Dangerous”: The Family Stand
(Super Sol Nova, 2007)
This chunk of rock-funk brought me out of a comatose state the first time I heard it. It’s driven mostly by aciculate lead vocals, a jagged drum beat, and the searing guitars of The Family Stand.

“Relax (Take it Easy)”: Mika
(Life in Cartoon Motion, 2007)
Even though the melody resembles “(I Just) Died in Your Arms Tonight” by the Cutting Crew – a song I never cared for – I love what Mika does on “Relax (Take It Easy)”. He has a very natural and unforced falsetto that contrasts nicely with the meaty synth and drum arrangement here.

“Heart of Hearts”: !!!
(Myth Takes, 2007)
While I have no idea how to pronounce !!!’s name, they’ve just released one of the more curious albums to hit the streets . Their lyrics are like riddles but guest vocalist Shannon Funchess helps unravel the mystery on “Heart of Hearts” with her soulful, straightforward, and sassy style.

February 2007 List

“He Can Only Hold Her”: Amy Winehouse
(Back to Black, 2007)
I think I’ve listened to Amy Winehouse’s new CD about two dozen times in the past two weeks while penning my PopMatters review. Her appropriation of ‘60s soul and pop is beguiling, particularly on “He Can Only Hold Her”, which features a cool horn arrangement backing up her gin-soaked voice.

“New Shoes”: Paolo Nutini
(These Streets, 2007)
I miss the days of 45 rpm records when you played a single until the grooves on the vinyl turned white. If “New Shoes” was released on 45 today, my copy would be a faint gray from all the times I've listened to it; care-free, three-minute pop never goes out of style!

“Hotel Song”: Regina Spektor
(Begin to Hope, 2006)
Regina Spektor has been hailed the “next big thing” for quite some time and because I’ve been disappointed when such claims have been made in the past, I initially resisted buying Begin to Hope. It is a good album and although her style isn’t always accessible to me, I do like a number of the tracks, including this gem (even if she cops a melody from Doris Troy’s “Just One Look”).

“Phantom Limb”: The Shins
(Wincing the Night Away. 2007)
Wincing the Night Away is a bit of a puzzle to me. I don’t know exactly how all the pieces fit together…but they do and “Phantom Limb” is a track that I’d expect to hear in one of my dreams, only to wake up and wonder “Is that really a song?”

“Hide Your Heart Away”: Lewis Taylor
(The Lost Album, 2007)
Both Craig and I had similar reactions to The Lost Album upon first listen, i.e. we expected something more in tune with the R&B flavor of Taylor’s last album, Stoned. I’ve since warmed up to this album and enjoy getting "lost" in Taylor’s sweeping landscapes of sound, especially on "Hide Your Heart Away"!

January 2007 List

“Into White”: Carly Simon
(Into White, 2007)
The moment I heard the gently cascading keyboard notes of “Into White”, I knew that Carly Simon’s latest album was special. I haven’t heard Cat Stevens’ original version, but I find myself cozying up to the warmth in Carly’s voice on grey afternoons like today.

“You Are Golden”: Incognito
(Bee+Things+Flowers, 2006)
The penultimate track on Incognito’s Bee+Things+Flowers (released the day after Christmas) just sends me. Tony Momrelle’s vocals are so intimate and personal that I feel “golden” after listening.

“Save Room”: John Legend
(Once Again, 2006)
The combination of a full moon and my sister’s recommendation must explain why I’m drawn to this song. Though I’m in the minority, I don’t particularly care for Legend's voice…except on “Save Room”!

“Oceans”: Johan
(THX JHN, 2006)
Johan is a Dutch band that were recently reviewed on PopMatters, where the writer characterized the group as John Lennon sounding a little more like Paul McCartney or Paul McCartney sounding a little more like John Lennon. Out of curiosity, I sampled Johan online and I have to agree with the 8/10 rating – “Oceans” is a perfect pop song.

“Radio”: Jamiroquai
(High Times: The Singles 1992-2006, 2006)
Thanks to Mark’s enthusiasm, I picked up Jamiroquai’s “greatest hits” last week. I’ve been a fan of Jamiroqauai ever since my freshman year at Northeastern University (10 years ago!!!) so it’s a thrill to have the best of the best collected on one disc, plus new tracks like “Radio”, which is a rousing piece of spage-age funk rock.

December 2006 List

I'll be back in January 2007 with new music!

November 2006 List

“What Does It Take (to Win Your Love)”: Don Byron
(Do the Boomerang: The Music of Junior Walker, 2006)
I had the opportunity to witness the first set of Don Byron’s tribute to Junior Walker at the Jazz Standard earlier last month. While I’ve enjoyed moments on Do the Boomerang, especially when Byron trades his tenor saxophone for bass clarinet on an exquisite rendition of Junior Walker’s “What Does I Take (to Win Your Love)”, the music truly came alive in concert, like the kaleidoscope of colors on the album’s cover!

“Funkier Than a Mosquito’s Tweeter”: Nina Simone
(Remixed and Reimagined, 2006)
I’m more familiar with Ike and Tina’s version of “Funkier Than a Mosquito’s Tweeter” but I find the remix of Nina Simone’s rendition much more compelling. DJ Jazzeem isolates moments of Simone’s version from 1974 to stirring effect then adds doses of trip-hop, tribal drumming, and looped syllables of Simone’s voice…intoxicating!

“Happy Time”: Tim Buckley
(Blue Afternoon, 1969)
The first time I saw Tim Buckley’s name was in a Top 100 Albums book I received at 8 years old, which included his Starsailor album, but the first time I heard Tim Buckley’s music was last month. For me, Buckley is an acquired taste but lyrics like “It's a happy time inside my mind/When a melody does find a rhyme” resonate.

“En Estos Dias”: Daphne Rubin-Vega
(Redemption Songs, 2006)
In preparing to interview Daphne Rubin-Vega, I've carefully read the lyrics of each song on her new album, Redemption Songs. The one song I love most is sung in Spanish but it’s almost immaterial since her vocal performance transcends my bi-lingual illiteracy.

“Let It Rain”: Patti Austin with Al Jarreau and George Benson
(Givin’ It Up, 2006)
The union of Patti Austin, Al Jarreau, and George Benson is a “smooth jazz” dream but, thankfully, “Let It Rain” doesn’t fall into smooth jazz mannerisms. The songwriting is superb on this track and each participant avoids histrionics in favor of nuance.

October 2006 List

“I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’”: Scissor Sisters
(Ta-Dah, 2006)
At this very moment in my home town of East Hampton, I know there’s a 12 year old boy who secretly loves “I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’” but hesitates to tell his male friends, given the flamboyance of lead singer Jake Shears and the song’s decidedly retro-pop-disco sound. Well, that's how I felt at 12 years old about some of the music I liked…but now I’m 27 and I proudly sing and dance along with Shears’ falsetto!

“Love Me Right”: Goapele
(Change It All, 2005)
Thanks to Donna and Yvonne, I was introduced to the wondrous, cosmic stylings of Goapele, an artist who completely escaped my radar in December 2005. “Love Me Right” is my favorite track on Change It All – a quirky blend of R&B and rock with Goapele's cooing vocals – but I sense that the album will slowly unveil other favorites over time.

“Sympathize”: Amos Lee
(Supply and Demand, 2006)
I’m so glad Amos Lee recorded a follow-up to his debut album so quickly because I just about wore out my copy of Amos Lee. Supply and Demand is definitely stronger than Amos Lee and Lee sounds more confident, especially when he harmonizes in his higher register on songs like "Sympathize".

“Up to the Mountain”: Solomon Burke
(Nashville, 2006)
Earlier this week, I had the distinct honor and pleasure of interviewing Solomon Burke for a feature article soon to be published on PopMatters (separate from my CD review). Beth-Anne, Elizabeth, and Jason can attest to how much joy I derive from speaking to artists about the meaning behind their songs so it was thrilling to chat with Reverend Burke about “Up to the Mountain”, a poignant parable about perseverance.

“What About Love”: Diana Ross
(I Love You, 2006)
I’ve patiently waited seven years for a new Diana Ross album that is not a compilation or a re-issue so the arrival of I Love You was welcomed with a warm embrace. "What About Love" (from The Color Purple stage musical) resonates fully within me, especially the line, “What about tears/when I’m happy?", since I now know what that feels like! (Note: Miss Ross hasn’t sounded THIS good since 1991.)

September 2006 List

“Whoo! Alright - Yeah...Uh Huh”: The Rapture
(Pieces of the People We Love, 2006)
I’m a bit late to The Rapture party, but their new album ensures that I won’t leave anytime soon! They truly are the definition of “punk-disco” and this song reminds me of dancing among a crowd of revelers with Mark and Nicole at Luke & Leroy’s back in June.

“La Territoire”: Brazilian Girls
(Talk to La Bomb, 2006)
I remember I was the only person dancing at Nublu for the CD release party of Brazilian Girls’ first album – having a fantastic time, nonetheless - and then being annoyed when the band took more than 3 hours to take the stage at Bowery Ballroom for a concert appearance later that month. Talk to La Bomb redeems Brazilian Girls because it proves that they can deliver the goods a second time without recycling ideas from the first album.

“California Rain”: Madeleine Peyroux
(Half the Perfect World, 2006)
Madeleine Peyroux has a voice that soothes like a warm cup of coffee on a cold, rainy morning (like today, in fact!) What I enjoy about “California Rain” is the dichotomy between the lyrics’ malaise -- “What a fool to be ambitious/Moving here with all of my wishes” -– and the “hopeful” spirit evoked by the hi-hat, keyboard, and guitar.

“It’s Only Make Believe”: Sam Moore
(Overnight Sensational, 2006)
Sam Moore, who was one-half of Sam & Dave ("Soul Man", "Hold On! I'm Comin;"), has a new album of “duets”, which comes off more as an imitation of Ray Charles’ Genius Loves Company. “It’s Only Make Believe”, written by Conway Twitty, is a stand out track because it focuses less on guest vocalists and more on Moore’s soaring tenor.

“Reason to Believe”: Lionel Richie
(Coming Home, 2006)
I was really rooting for Richie on his new album but, alas, he’s abandoned his artistry in favor of overproduced material that already sounds out of date. “Reason to Believe”, produced by Dallas Austin, is the only song from the album that resonates with me because it places Richie with an actual band of musicians, singing a strong melody in his own, distinct style (not Usher's or Ne-Yo's etc.).

August 2006 List

“Love the One You’re With”: Aretha Franklin
(Live at Fillmore West, 1971)
I attest to being only a casual fan of Aretha Franklin so I’d never heard Live at the Fillmore West until last week. Aretha's rousing interpretations of songs like “Love the One You’re With” illustrate how she’s one of those rare artists that can take a popular song and create the definitive version of it.

“Stepping High in Her I. Miller Shoes”: Betty Davis
(Betty Davis, 1973)
During my research for the “Black Female Singers and Rock Music” study in 2003, I became aware about the seminal contributions of Betty Davis (ex-wife of Miles Davis) to black rock in the early ‘70s; only recently did I find an album of hers. Her voice is razor-sharp on this track, singing/screaming over an equally sharp guitar that must have made Big Mama Thorton proud!

“Lover Take Me”: Edie Brickell & New Bohemians
(Stranger Things, 2006)
The extent of my knowledge about Edie Brickell & New Bohemians was limited to their ’89 hit, “What I Am”, which I fondly remember from fifth grade. “Lover Take Me” suits me perfectly at 27 years old and I wish I could sound as sultry as Edie does on this track when I sing.

“So Good to See You”: Shawn Colvin
(These Four Walls, 2006)
I remember challenging Scott about the meaning of “Sunny Came Home” when it was all over the airwaves in ’98, so I wonder what he’d think of “So Good to See You”. Here’s what I think: Shawn Colvin isn’t always my cup of tea but the sincerity of her songs and how she sings them – especially on “So Good to See You” - is what gets me in the mood to listen.

“Lady Lazarus”: The Crooners
(So Many Places, 2006)
A lot happened in my first two weeks of living in New York City and seeing The Crooners perform on a street corner near NYU was part of that experience. Earlier in 2006 I caught the last two songs of their set at The Living Room and couldn’t wait to hear how “Lady Lazarus” (the second to last song) would sound on their first “electric” album.

July 2006 List

“Something Big”: Burt Bacharach
(Living Together, 1973)
July is the perfect time of year to discover a hidden gem by Burt Bacharach and that is exactly what I did four nights ago during a singalong with fellow Bacharach enthusiasts. Next time I visit East Hampton, I'll take my mother and aunt for a drive along the back roads, roll down the windows, and sing along to "Something Big" with Burt and his ever-insouciant background vocalists.

“We Got Music”: Incognito
(Eleven, 2006)
In honor of my 27th birthday, Mr. Mark Anthony Lee turned my attention towards a new track by Incognito, which deliciously throbs over a disco beat. The song's mantra, "life is just a rollercoaster" succinctly captures the abandonment I experience when dancing – arms in the air, hair tousled and wet, eyes aglow.

“I Just Realized”: The Brand New Heavies
(Get Used to It, 2006)
If anyone heard a distant echo of someone screaming with delight, it was me celebrating the reunion of N’Dea Davenport with the Brand New Heavies. There’s nary a dud on the record, but I’m partial to “I Just Realized", featuring drummer Jan Kincaid tirelessly tapping out a jagged, syncopated beat under Davenport’s vocals.

“Long Distance Call”: Phoenix
(It’s Never Been Like That, 2006)
Phoenix is a band I happened upon unexpectedly one day while researching new music. Hailing from France, the guys in Phoenix know how to construct fresh, infectious pop hooks that don’t sound borrowed or appropriated from other bands.

"Walk Away Renee”: Linda Ronstadt & Ann Savoy
(Adieu False Heart, 2006)
Linda Ronstadt’s new album with Ann Savoy has given me a taste of Cajun music sensibilities. However, their heartbreaking cover of “Walk Away Renee” transcends genre – it’s simply an exquisite rendering of a timeless melody!

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Nona Hendryx at Joe's Pub on Tuesday, August 22. I'm thrilled to announce that one of the best live performers I've ever seen in my short 27 years - Ms. Nona Hendryx - returns to Joe's Pub next month. The woman's blend of funk and rock is mesmerizing and if she throws in a few of her compositions from the Labelle period, the world will be a much happier place! www.joespub.com Be there!

June 2006 List

“Seven Days in Sunny June”: Jamiroquai
(Dynamite, 2005)
Not 24 hours ago, Danny Birichi e-mailed me about this song, which – as is often the case with Mr. Birichi’s intuition – he knew I would immediately love. Both of us discovered that we had a shared Jamiroquai affinity during the twilight of our days in Boston and this track represents why – soulful vocals, a nostalgia for late ‘70’s soul/funk, and a happy marriage of acoustic and synthetic elements.

“Father and Daughter”: Paul Simon
(Surprise, 2006)
I heard the guitar riff to “Father and Daughter” looped on a website and was surprised to discover that Paul Simon recorded it, but then again I haven’t paid much attention to his work from the last 20 years... Anyhow, on this lilting lullaby, Simon keeps the arrangements simple – guitar, bass, and drums – and the lyrics sweet without being too saccharine.

“Para Mais Ninguém”: Marisa Monte
(Universo ao Meu Redor, 2006)
The load-up graphic on Marisa Monte’s website is a red-colored vine that grows from the top right corner of the screen to the middle of the page and sprouts two leaves. The instrumental break to “Para Mais Ninguém” supplies the image with music and whets your appetite for more! (See it here: http://www2.uol.com.br/marisamonte/hotsite/abertura.htm

“No More”: Diana Ross
(Blue, 1972)
On the heels of starring as Billie Holiday in Lady Sings the Blues in 1972, Diana Ross recorded an album of torch songs and standards to capitalize on the film’s success. For reasons unknown, it was shelved and released 34 years later at a time when every other established pop star seems to be recording standards, but Blue proves that Miss Ross had the chops to tackle songs by Lady Day and make them her own; let the beautifully- aching “No More” stand as exhibit A.

“Diferente”: Gotan Project
(Lunático, 2006)
Dressing tango motifs in an electronic, trans-continental cloak, Gotan Project’s seductive “Diferente” conjures images of low lights, red wine, crimson roses, and limbs intertwined. If ever there was a catalyst for me to learn the tango, this is it!

May 2006 List

“Rapture Riders”: Blondie vs. The Doors
(Sound & Vision, 2006)
The “mash-up” phenomenon, led in part by Danger Mouse (one-half of Gnarls Barkley), now includes a pairing of “Rapture” - one of my favorite Blondie songs - and “Riders of the Storm,” by The Doors. Though a bit of a novelty, the contrast between Debbie Harry and Jim Morrison's voices and the similarity in the two songs' chord progressions is worth a few spins.

“Crazy”: Gnarls Barkley
(St. Elsewhere, 2006)
True genius means being able to lay psycho-existential lyrics over hooky beats and haunting melodies, which Gnarls Barkley excels at. I think it’s safe to say that I'm a bit more self-aware after singing along to this song, destined to become a summer classic for 2006.

“Maybe Sparrow”: Neko Case
(Fox Confessor Brings the Flood, 2006)
Neko’s voice soars and sears on “Maybe Sparrow,” a short but sweet enigma of a song that I haven’t quite figured out yet...but therein is its appeal. Her voice is the hook and the simplicity of the corresponding video is magical (scroll down the right hand column at
http://www.nekocase.com/news/).

“Trouble”: Amel Larrieux
(Morning, 2006)
I can’t believe nearly 10 years have passed since I first heard Amel Larrieux’s voice lead “Tell Me” by Groove Theory. Anyhow…her third solo album kicks off with this playful slice of soul.

“Gotyourback”: David Ryan Harris
(Soulstice, 2004)
Not even three days ago, Craig played Soulstice for Mark and I while we were stuck in moderately-moving traffic on the West Side Highway. The traffic, however, enabled us to savor this particularly ebullient cut, which suited the afternoon perfectly as the warmth of the sun poured through the sunroof.

April 2006 List

"Better Way": Ben Harper
(Both Sides of the Gun, 2006)
I'd always been curious about Ben Harper but only ever happened upon his music here and there rather than actively seeking it out. Because he recently released a two CD set with two distinctive moods shaping each disc, I thought it was a good excuse to finally warm my ears to his music; I now feel like I've joined the party!

"Here Today Gone Tomorrow": Ronnie Spector
(The Last of the Rock Stars, 2006)
Ladies and gentlemen: I am proud to announce the first release by my company - Ronnie Spector's The Last of the Rock Stars! Currently only available outside of the U.S., the album illustrates Ronnie's enduring influence among rock musicians, past and present, especially when she lets loose on a cover of The Ramones' "Here Today Gone Tomorrow." (Note: even if it wasn't released by my company, I'd buy the album - it's that interesting of a listen!)

"The Thrill of This Love": Van Hunt
(On the Jungle Floor, 2006)
Ever since its release on April 11, the new album by Van Hunt has hardly left my discman or my stereo, boasting an impressive variety of musical soundscapes serving as a backdrop for Hunt's mutable voice. For those who thirst a change from insipid neo-soul or committee-made R&B, Van Hunt's second album is the tonic!

"Previsão": BossaCucaNova feat. Adriana Calcanhotto
(Uma Batida Diferente, 2005)
Thanks to a listening station at the Tower Records near Lincoln Center, I've discovered yet another song blessed by the angelic voice of Adriana Calcanhotto (see May 2005 list). BossaCucaNova's music perfectly conjures the feeling of winter turning to spring and Adriana's voice is like a flower opening its petals towards the sun.

"Wisteria": P-1
(Power, 2006)
Like "Previsao," "Wisteria" is a song that suits the change of seasons, feautring a bass line that drives the deep-house rhythm and adds muscle to lead singer Beth-Anne Arensten's rapturous exclamation, "We're so overjoyed by our looooove." Now that Power is officially available, I'm thrilled to share my excitement about this particular song, which is fast-becoming my theme for summer 2006! (Check out www.p-1music.com for more info...)

JUNE POINTER: 1953-2006
April's blog is in memory of June Pointer who passed away on Tuesday, April 11 at 52 years old. She was one of the original Pointer Sisters, a group whose sound has been with me since childhood. June sang lead on such songs as "Happiness," "He's So Shy," "Jump (For My Love)," "Dare Me," and "Baby Come and Get It."

March 2006 List

Grand National: “Cherry Tree”
(Kicking the National Habit, 2004)
For unabashed fun, I’ve been listening to “Cherry Tree,” a song whose serpentine rhythm is so hot, I don’t mind not really understanding the lyrics. The chorus sounds like it was lifted from some never-released disco song circa 1975, a fusion of retro sensibilities with modern production standards.

Lewis Taylor: “Positively Beautiful”
(Stoned, 2004)
I must apologize to Mr. Robert Drayton for turning down an opportunity to see Lewis Taylor when he performed at the Bowery Ballroom some time ago (it was a bitterly cold evening and I was not as informed about Lewis Taylor then as I am now). Having come to my senses, I realize that Lewis Taylor is the sound of blue-eyed soul in the new millennium, for “Positively Beautiful” is a positively first rate production, featuring a soulful falsetto backed by a driving drum beat.

Corrine Bailey Rae: “Put Your Records On”
(Corrine Bailey Rae, 2005)
Thanks to my friend Danny Birichi, U.K. artist Corrine Bailey Rae is not an unfamiliar name to me. With the onset of spring, I hasten to accept her invitation to “let your hair down” in “Put Your Records On,” a song which simulates the sensation of a warm breeze enveloping my body during an 8:00 p.m. sunset.

Jack Johnson: “Talk of the Town”
(Curious George soundtrack, 2005)
Last month I had one of the best dreams ever: I dreamt that I had the power to fly, to levitate above the ground and soar skyward to the clouds. When I saw Curious George, the feelings I experienced in my dream were conjured by Jack Johnson’s “Talk of the Town,” which accompanies the scene where George and the Man in the Yellow Hat fly over the city while clutching a rainbow of balloons.

Jane Siberry: “Anytime”
(www.sheeba.com website, 2005)
Months ago when I saw Jane Siberry at Joe’s Pub (August 2005 blog) she closed the set with an acoustic version of “Anytime.” The recently recorded version (featured on The L Word and currently available through her website) is an exquisite addition to her canon and contains some of her most heartfelt lyrics: “Anytime I will be there/maybe in song/maybe in the wind/maybe in the rain/maybe in the sunshine.”

February 2006 List

“Starman”: Seu Jorge
(The Life Aquatic Studio Sessions, 2005)
I first heard Seu Jorge’s acoustic versions of early ‘70’s David Bowie songs in the film The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou in which he played a member of Steve’s crew who was rarely seen without strumming his guitar. The warmth of Seu’s voice, not to mention the Portuguese language, underscores the fact that behind the glitter of Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust façade, there was an excellent songwriter who composed melodies that hold up 30 years later.

“Spy”: Carly Simon
(Spy, 1979)
Here’s a song that wouldn’t be able to escape the 1970’s if its life depended on it, but that’s why I love it so! Arif Mardin produces a buoyant, dreamy, disco-y rhythm track for Carly (not her usual milieu), replete with all the disco-jazz-pop trimmings of the era...including a flute solo!

“Goodnight and Go”: Imogen Heap
(Speak for Yourself, 2005)
Imogen Heap makes candy for the ear. “Goodnight and Go,” in particular, features one of the dreamiest bridges in a song I’ve ever heard, where the jagged beat halts and gives way to a sea of Imogen’s multi-tracked voice intoning “go”; it’s like slowly unwrapping a Hershey’s kiss.

“Better Days”: Rufus & Chaka Khan
(Ask Rufus, 1977)
My favorite percussion instrument is the quica, which is in the foreground nearly as much as Chaka Khan’s strident vocals on this delicious album track. Rufus’ catalog has recently been digitally remastered and “Better Days” wonderfully benefits with a full-bodied sound anchored by Bobby Watson’s voluptuous bass guitar.

“Come On! Feel the Illinoise!”: Sufjan Stevens
(Illinois, 2005)
Sufjan Stevens’ second album to explore each of the 50 united states (48 more to go!) really needs to be absorbed as an entire score of music, but some tracks are enjoyable even when extracted from the album. “Come On! Feel the Illinoise!,” for example, features a kitchen-sink worth of instruments, many played by the artist himself, and a choir of voices that serve as a “Greek chorus” to expound on the half-sung narration.

January 2006 List

"True Blue": Rod Stewart
(Never a Dull Moment, 1972)
Some time between Christmas and New Year's Eve, I dreamt about the Never a Dull Moment album cover, which my parents owned, though I never listened to the actual record growing up. Thinking that my dream about the album cover contained some sort of "message," I bought the CD and played it for my mom a few days ago, whereupon she shared the memory of telling a guy she was dating in the early '70's (before she met my father) that Rod Stewart would one day be "bigger than Joe Cocker."

"Shine": Cyndi Lauper
(The Body Acoustic, 2005)
Melika and I were treated to a Cyndi Lauper concert at Irving Plaza last year (a benefit for a music industry exec who died of cancer) and neither of us were prepared for the unbridled passion and exuberance that Ms. Lauper brought to her performance. Cyndi opened her set with a powerful rendition of the somewhat obscure "Shine" - a personal favorite of mine - which she recently rerecorded in a stripped-down version on The Body Acoustic.

"Go Ask Shakespeare": Burt Bacharach featuring Rufus Wainwright
(At This Time, 2005)
Thanks to the kind folks at LIFEbeat, I was given Burt Bacharach's new album as a Christmas present. I honestly didn't know what to expect, aside from the obligatory flugelhorns and string arrangements, but "Go Ask Shakespeare," with its mournful sax and aching vocal by Rufus Wainwright, is the gem in Bacharach's latest crown.

"Mushaboom": Feist
(Let it Die, 2004)
Hailing from Alberta, Feist is the equivalent of dark amber maple syrup - her voice is warm and sweet but not overly sugary. This track, featuring a sparse but funky rhythm track, was introduced to me by Mr. Mark Lee and suits a range of moods - from snow falling gently, to late afternoon strolls around Manhattan, to quiet introspection.

"Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight": Michael Brecker with James Taylor
(The Nearness of You, 2001)
It's not often that I get excited about James Taylor's voice (sorry to all JT fans reading this), but I was pleasantly surprised to hear how "tailor"-made his voice is to guest on a Michael Brecker album with Pat Metheny, Herbie Hancock, Charlie Haden (among others) in the line up. However, in listening to this track, I can't help but think about JT's ex-wife, Carly Simon, being 20 years ahead of the game when she released the torchy Torch album after their divorce in 1981.

December 2005 List

I'll be back in the New Year with new music!

November 2005 List

"I've Got a Life": Eurythmics
(The Ultimate Collection, 2005)
Twenty-two years after I was first mesmerized by the unnerving masked stare of Annie Lennox on the cover of Eurythmics' Touch album, I sit in awe listening to Annie's voice soar into the stratosphere on this new, "instant Eurythmics classic" track. Though I absolutely appreciate and enjoy Annie's solo work, there is a chemistry between her and Dave Stewart that has created some of the most unconventional and memorable pop music of my generation.

"Do You Want to": Franz Ferdinand
(You Could Have it So Much Better, 2005)
Melika, my office mate at Songmasters, introduced me to Franz Ferdinand's second album a few weeks ago and I've since become a huge fan of the band's rollicking, funky rhythms and teasing, naughty lyrics on "Do You Want To." This particular song is akin to something David Bowie might have performed in the early '70's, though the track stands on its own merits.

"Mi Amour": Allen Toussaint
(I Believe to My Soul, 2005)
With much attention dedicated to musicians who fled New Orleans in the wake of Katrina, Allen Toussaint became a shining beacon of light on my radar. I've long enjoyed the songs he's written for the Pointer Sisters and the classic Nightbirds album he co-produced for Labelle in the '70's, but this album (also featuring Ann Peebles, Mavis Staples, and Billy Preston) marked the first time I actually heard him sing; I like what I hear.

"Chasing Strange": Chocolate Genius Inc.
(Black Yankee Rock, 2005)
In one of the more spontaneous moments of the past month, Craig and I decided to check out Chocolate Genius (aka Marc Anthony Thompson) at Joe's Pub at the last minute, narrowly trumping a sold out show. I honestly don't remember if I heard the haunting harmonies in "Chasing Strange" that night, but upon listening to the album, they irrevocably burned into my mind.

"Sunset": Kate Bush
(Aerial, 2005)
After collecting her relatively small body of work since picking up The Kick Inside (1978) six years ago, Kate Bush has become the one artist who alternately inspires and frightens me. On a rainy afternoon in Atenas, Costa Rica last Friday, I sat with my headphones on, quietly absorbing the sublime suite that contains "Sunset" and once again found myself moved by Kate's lyrical poetry: "Who knows who wrote that song of summer/That blackbirds sing at dusk/This is a song of color/Where sands sing in crimson, red and rust."

October 2005 List

"Whatever": Jill Scott
(Beautifully Human: Words & Sounds, Vol. 2, 2004)
On two occasions in the past six months, I heard the remix of "Whatever," but it wasn't until my friend Mark shared the original version with me that I appreciated its cozy, laid-back soundscape and frolicsome wordplay. Jill Scott can sing in a variety of guises and I particularly enjoy her voice on this track where she's effectively sexy without being tacky.

"How Am I Different": Bettye LaVette
(I've Got My Own Hell to Raise, 2005)
Until last week, Betty LaVette was a singer who I knew very little about other than her esteemed standing among soul music aficionados, so upon David Nathan's very compelling recommendation, I bought her new album. I walked home from Park Row back to Hell's Kitchen on a rainy Friday night, listening to a woman whose voice is a force of nature, whose delivery of lyrics is raw and naked, and who, on this song, refashions a question from Aimee Mann's lyrics into a declaration of independence.

"State Your Peace": Hootie & the Blowfish
(Looking for Lucky, 2005)
I didn't ever think I'd listen to Hootie & the Blowfish again after drowning in their songs back in high school, thanks to W104.7. However, I had an opportunity to see them perform earlier last month at China Club and hear a set of songs from their new album, which - to my listening delight - is actually a very welcome breath of fresh air!

"Bohemia After Dark": Herbie Mann & Phil Woods
(Beyond Brooklyn, 2004)
In an effort to indulge my love for flute-based jazz, I decided recently to learn more about one of the best jazz flutists ever - Herbie Mann. Though Herbie Mann passed away shortly after Beyond Brooklyn was released, his legacy and influence are intact, and it's such a joy to hear him and saxophonist Phil Woods play together on this track, which conjures images of twinkling lights on the Manhattan skyline.

"Night of My Life": Barbra Streisand
(Guilty Pleasures, 2005)
Ahhhhh..."Night of My Life" is my own personal anthem this month! It is certainly no "guilty pleasure" of mine to:
a) hear Barbra Streisand's voice soar on a dance track
b) hear Barbra Streisand collaborate with Barry Gibb again
c) hear this song at full volume in a club (which I haven't done yet but I will no doubt MAKE happen)

September 2005 List

"Ondule": Mathieu Boogaerts
(Super, 1998)
Aunt Gail has consistently been a source of new music throughout my life and she once again proved her keen ability to entice me with groovy sounds as she and I drove from East Hampton to Manhattan with furniture for my new pad. With the CD player on random, I heard this charming, subdued circus of a song three times during the trip (via the Putumayo French Cafe CD) and have since become a fan of the playfully eclectic Mathieu Boogarets.

"Keep on Hoping": Raul Midon with Jason Mraz
(State of Mind, 2005)
When my friend Lynn and I saw Richie Havens at B.B. King's earlier this year, we also witnessed the amazing guitar virtuosity of Raul Midon. At the time, he'd just landed a record deal with EMI Manhattan and exuded such a palpable excitement that his elastic voice seemed to stretch even further to the edges of the music scale.

"Dreams": Deep Dish featuring Stevie Nicks
(George Is On, 2005)
The dance music duo of Deep Dish originally intended to remix the original Fleetwood Mac version of "Dreams," but Stevie Nicks offered to rerecord her vocals to better suit the contemporary production. I was a bit leery when I learned that one of my all-time favorite songs was getting the millennial dance/club treatment, but Nicks' voice is far raspier now than on the 1977 original, giving the new version of "Dreams" a pleasingly different texture.

"What a Wonderful Thing Love Is": Al Green
(I'm Still in Love With You, 1972)
During the set up for the 9/11 Concert in Washington Square Park this past Sunday, Al Green's inimitable voice floated over the park from the loudspeakers as the I'm Still in Love With You album played. I'd never heard the entire album, so "What a Wonderful Thing Love Is" was new to my ears (I promptly bought the album just to hear that song over and over again).

"Happiness is Just Around the Bend": The Main Ingredient
(Euphrates River, 1974)
Last week at Monster, DJ Warren segued from Marvin Gaye's "Got to Give it Up" to this song, which I hadn't heard before but quickly investigated. Though not many of the Main Ingredient's albums are in print, the full-length version of this spacey slice of soul is on a recently-released compilation so I've been able to relive Cuba Gooding's teasing ad libs ("I'm going where the fun is") multiple times since picking it up two days ago!

August 2005 List

"Never My Love": The Ventures
(10th Anniversary Album, 1970)
After chatting with my friend Mark about the 5th Dimension's version of this song, I remembered that my first, true introduction to the tune was through a record album by The Ventures that my Aunt Gail gave my parents for their wedding. I chipped the vinyl with my uncoordinated four year old hands after listening to the record for the umpteenth time one afternoon (I also liked watching the pretty label revolve at 33 1/3 rpm!), so it had been more than 20 years since I last heard it when I fortuitously found an import CD copy on amazon.com!

"Inspiration": Marlon Saunders
(A Groove So Deep: The Live Sessions, 2005)
I met Marlon Saunders at Angela Johnson's (see last month's post) CD release party at The Blue Note in June and learned that he's an accomplished artist in his own right. I attended his CD release party at Joe's Pub a few weeks ago with my friend Lynn whereupon he worked this soulful, sensual, samba-esque groove with his band, Mood Control.

"Scootcha Booty": Al Jarreau
(Accentuate the Positive, 2004)
Al Jarreau is truly one of the most talented and musically animated vocalists, painting words and syllables with colors unique to his vocal palette. This track, from his most recent release on Verve, exemplifies the essence of his extraordinary gift, tirelessly keeping pace with a tight rhythm section.

"I Got Your Love": Donna Summer
(iTUNES single, 2005)
Well, I finally crossed the threshold that is iTUNES and bought Donna's latest single, which is currently only available online. While the beat is hot and her voice alternately sultry and strong, I do miss the thrill of holding an actual single with cover art, liner notes, and a photo of her fabulously-sculpted face...I have a weakness for packaging, I guess!

"Map IV: Pilgrim": Jane Siberry
(Love is Everything: The Jane Siberry Anthology, 2002)
Because of Jane Siberry's generosity (and because of my work at Songmasters), I had the pleasure of seeing her perform a stimulating and thought-provoking array of poetry, spoken-word pieces, and songs at Joe's Pub during her NYC visit. Her magnetic rendition of this song, accompanied by herself on acoustic guitar, left me spellbound and I quickly tracked down the album to commit that feeling to memory.

July 2005 List

"Sacre Francais": Dimitri from Paris
(Sacrebleu, 1997)
I've long been a fan of Dimitri's mix albums of house and disco classics (e.g. A Night at the Playboy Mansion), but only recently have I heard his original material. I can't remember the last time a xylophone has been this irresistibly catchy.

"The Heart's a Lonely Hunter": Thievery Corporation & David Byrne
(The Cosmic Game, 2005)
I attended my first Fort Green Park dance party in Brooklyn on Sunday afternoon and this song, replete with kaleidoscopic percussion and horns, quickly sent my feet to the dance floor. I asked the DJ who was singing and he replied - to my surprise - "The guy from Talking Heads"; 24 hours later, I hold the album in my hands.

"You're Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go": Madeleine Peyroux
(Careless Love, 2005)
This is probably the most wistful song about unrequited love I've ever heard. With guitar-strummed chords that conjure images of tears gently falling, Madeleine Peyroux gives Bob Dylan's classic cut from Blood on the Tracks a delicate, tender rendering.

"I'll Always": Angela Johnson
(Got to Let it Go, 2005)
Angela Johnson introduced the songs from her second solo album (including this Al Green-inspired tune) at S.O.B.'s a couple of months ago when opening for a band called Tortured Soul. If you want the hairs on the back of your neck to stand at attention, I implore you to run, walk, or crawl to experience Angela Johnson in concert.

"Bubble Toes": Jack Johnson
(Brushfire Fairytales, 2002)
After walking through the garden that is In Between Dreams (see March 2005 List), I decided to delve into one of Jack Johnson's earlier releases. "Bubble Toes" is one of the most fun listening experiences I've had of late, especially because of the infectious refrain of "la da da-da da-da."

NOTE: I just have to gush about seeing Donna Summer perform at Jones Beach on Saturday night. She sang a stirring cover of "Nights in White Satin" that MUST be recorded sooner than later!

June 2005 List

"Una Disco Llena": Los Amigos Invisibles
(The Venezuelan Zinga Son, Vol. 1, 2004)
A lovely, multi-talented percussionist introduced me to this song during my last two weeks in Boston and I was hooked by the fusion of disco, Latin, and groove rhythms. I finally picked up a copy for myself a couple of weeks ago and have been smiling ever since, especially because of the percussion break in the middle.

"Rise": Seek
(Journey Into Day, 2004)
Listen to this song and you'll hear that "Rise" is a word that is meant to be sung. The lead singer of Seek spoke about how hearing this song played back during the recording process brought tears to her eyes because it resonated so strongly with her sense of self-empowerment.

"Happy in the Morning": Nikka Costa
(can'tneverdidnothin', 2005)
My friend Danny would not be surprised to learn that this is my favorite track from Nikka's latest album, with its loping rhythm and handclaps a la Bowie's "Fashion." It's a summertime song, like skipping along the sand in rolled-up jeans splashing in the water as the waves crash on the shore.

"Jump for Joy": Ernie Andrews
(Jump for Joy, 2003)
A few weeks ago in East Hampton, I ventured out for a drive at one in the morning as my nephew, John Michael, settled down to sleep. After driving from East Hampton to Bridgehampton to Amagansett back to East Hampton, I heard this song on 88.3 and was revivified by Ernie's exuberant delivery.

"Knowing When to Leave": Ernie Watts Quartet
(Planet Love, 1969)
I grew up looking at the covers of my mother's Burt Bacharach and Dionne Warwick albums and I was always intrigued by the sounds I heard on the vinyl. This recent discovery of "Knowing When to Leave" (originally from the musical "Promises, Promises") illustrates just how well-suited Bacharach compositions are for jazz musicians and improvisation.

The June 28th Special

To celebrate my Cancerian roots, here are 20 songs that have guided and moved me through 26 years. They're like family. Perhaps someday I'll write a book with the full-length stories behind these songs...

"Dim all the Lights": Donna Summer (Bad Girls, 1979)
The quintessential Donna song - begins slow and progresses to an infectious syncopated 4/4 dance beat featuring her trademarked full-bodied belt.

"Let's Stay Together": Tina Turner (Private Dancer, 1984)
Love the Al Green original but Tina's take on the lyrics is more visceral, almost pleading; she penetrates my core on this one!

"Newborn Friend": Seal (Seal, 1994)
Seal's ruminations about life's purpose and how one navigates through the ebb and flow of emotion aligns perfectly with my own endless questioning.

"Hounds of Love": Kate Bush (Hounds of Love, 1985)
A theatrical, dramatic, thoroughly-moving performance by Ms. Bush anchored by a cello rhythm that's played like percussion and chords that mirror her fear about falling in love.

"When You Were Mine": Cyndi Lauper (She's So Unusual, 1983)
In the 20+ years that I've known this song, it's become my favorite from She's So Unusual because it illustrates how Cyndi's impressive vocal range amplifies the emotional punch of any lyrics she sings.

"This Woman's Work"(live): Maxwell (MTV Unplugged, 1997)
Maxwell improves upon the already-perfect Kate Bush original with his amazing falsetto and delicate harp accompaniment; a goosebump experience that brings tears to my eyes.

"Who's that Girl?": Eurythmics (Touch, 1983)
Annie Lennox certainly looked a lot different on the cover of the Touch album (orange crew cut) than in the video of this song (blonde wig) and therein explains my fascination at four years old!

"One Way Or Another": Blondie (Parallel Lines, 1978)
I first saw Debbie Harry perform this song on The Muppet Show and was frightened by the way she prowled the stage, but mesmerized by her beauty.

"I Gotcha": Joe Tex (I Gotcha, 1972)
Bob Fosse choreographed one of my favorite dance routines for this song on Liza Minnelli's 1972 TV special, but the Joe Tex original is the one that sets me moving in my own cut and pasted dance routine.

"Half Moon": Rufus featuring Chaka Khan (Rufusized, 1974)
I thank Mr. Bailey for showing me just how much more there is to Rufus and Chaka than "Tell Me Something Good," exemplified by this spine-tingling track from Rufusized.

"All in Love if Fair": Stevie Wonder (Innervisions, 1973)
My first break up song though, in retrospect, I wasn't breaking up from much at all!

"Walk on By": Dionne Warwick (Make Way for Dionne Warwick, 1964)
No one can touch Dionne's original - this is a perfect song.

"So Far Away": Carole King (Tapestry, 1971)
I hear this song now and I'm transported to Vermont, January 1998, sitting in a room at the Black Locust Inn with no idea of knowing what lay ahead.

"Help Me": Joni Mitchell (Court and Spark, 1973)
Though I love most of Joni's extensive and eclectic catalog, it's the jazzy-pop of this tune (especially the bridge) that stretches the corners of my mouth like a wedge of watermelon.

"Dreams": Fleetwood Mac (Rumours, 1977)
Mick Fleetwood's opening drum bit is classic, Stevie Nicks gives a pleasantly understated performance, and the chorus ranks as my favorite three-part harmony to sing along with.

"Love is Alive": Richie Havens (Wishing Well, 2002)
The incessant strum of Richie's guitar and his sensually smokey voice hypnotizes me like a snake charmer.

"Love & Affection": Joan Armatrading (Joan Armatrading, 1976)
Acoustic guitar, an orchestra, a sax solo, and lyrics detailing the tug of war of conflicting desires - only Joan can mix these ingredients together and serve a delectable meal.

"I'll Fly With You": Gigi D'Agostino (L'Amour Toujours, 2001)
Jess, Eric, and Nicole...this song will forever define my relationship with you during those golden years in Boston.

"Try a Little Tenderness": Otis Redding (Monterey Pop Festival, 1967)
Hearing Otis' live rendition at the Monterey Pop Festival is simply a hair-raising experience.

"Ain't No Mountain High Enough": Diana Ross (Diana Ross, 1970)
Ahhh...the blue print of my soul and the song that introduced me at a very young age to the transcendent power of music.

May 2005 List

"Billie's Bones": Janis Ian
(Billie's Bones, 2004)
Before hearing this song and the Billie's Bones album, I was a Janis Ian neophyte, having only previously heard "At Seventeen" and Roberta Flack's version of "Jesse." Within seconds of listening, I appreciated Janis Ian's very visual and intimate style of songwriting, this song explaining the debt she owes to Billie Holiday, one of her musical idols.

"Sleeping With You": Blue Horizon
(Shapeshifter, 2005)
What I enjoy most about Elizabeth and Jason's singing is how their two very different voices create a timbre when they harmonize. "Sleeping With You" emphasizes this beautiful harmony and has accompanied me during lunch hours spent sitting on a tree stump overlooking the reservoir in Central Park.

"Arms of a Woman": Amos Lee
(Amos Lee, 2005)
I'm in the midst of a love affair with all of the songs on Amos Lee's debut album, but "Arms of a Woman" caught my attention first. A friend asked me how I could identify with a line like "I am at ease in the arms of a woman" but, in my opinion, the naked emotion of Amos' singing transcends gender and speaks to the universal experience of longing - whether it be for a woman, a man, a memory...

"Trouble": The Savage Juliet
(Another Roadside Attraction, 2004)
(No relation to the Ray LaMontagne song posted last month.)
At The Savage Juliet's CD Release party held at Tonic last week, the band gave out free copies of Another Roadside Attraction, which was fantastic news for my friend Robert and I, who thoroughly enjoyed our first TSJ concert. Though I don't remember hearing "Trouble" at the show (I arrived late after going one subway stop too far), I've played the song - literally - at least thirty times since last Friday...my love for it is so visceral that I can't even describe why I love it!

"Maresia": Adriana Calcanhotto
(Publico, 2000)
I was sitting inside Rue des Crepes last night, pretending to write in my journal, when a lilting, Brazilian-brushed rhythm suddenly set my head bopping from side to side. I asked one of the guys who works at Rue des Crepes what CD was on the stereo and he wrote "Adriana Calcanhotto, Publico" on a guest check, whereupon I anted up and made a dash for Tower Records near NYU - I just had to have it!

April 2005 List

"Easy As Life": Tina Turner
(AIDA, 1999)
Many years have elapsed since my friend Scott played me the AIDA album, which features a diverse array of artists singing songs from Tim Rice and Elton John's musical before it became a Broadway show. With Tina's recent reemergence in the public eye, I finally picked up a copy and am simply enchanted by her delivery - she gives the words a unique shape by singing in the lower part of her register, quite different from the Broadway recording.

"I Can't Stop": Al Green
(I Can't Stop, 2003)
The first ten seconds of this song make my heart beat faster, with the drum beat and horns forecasting the arrival of Reverend Green's trademark set of pipes. Life is much more delicious because of this song - anyone else agree?

"Heed the Warning": Chaka Khan
(What Cha' Gonna Do For Me, 1981)
Shortly after buying this album (upon the recommendation of a "Chaka-holic"), I programmed the CD into my stereo before taking a nap so Chaka could sing me off to dreamland. I awoke to the ethereal-sounding instrumental break in the middle of this song, feeling like I was waking up on a floating cumulus cloud (from which I have yet to come down).

"Rose Rouge": St. Germain
(Tourist, 2000)
Many of my hard-earned dollar bills have been sucked away by the jukebox at The Pink Pony on Ludlow Street, which houses about forty CD's across different genres of music. Upon hearing this track for the first time, I fled from my peanut butter/honey/banana sandwich and coffee to the jukebox and investigated which one of those forty CD's held this blissfully buoyant jazz/funk gem.

"Trouble": Ray LaMontagne
(Trouble, 2004)
Currently, there aren't many new artists on the major record labels whose voices stray from "American Idol" territory. Ray LaMontagne is an exception, for the title track to his first album is a slow-burning, soul-baring story of a song, anchored by a well-worn voice that brings sandpaper to life.

March 2005 List

"Create": Alana Davis
(Surrender Dorothy, 2005)
Alana recently performed tracks from her new album at the Canal Room and I couldn't wait to get Surrender Dorothy after the show because of this song. "Create" is funk-rock dipped in a pool of candid emotion. I can relate!

"Way Out Man": Anubian Lights
(Phantascape, 2005)
I loved the groove of this song so much when I first heard it that I repeated it at least half a dozen times on my discman. It's a hip-shaker with political commentary - excellent combination!

"Paradise": Richie Havens
(Wishing Well, 2002)
I heard Richie perform at B.B. King's in November '04 and bought Wishing Well soon thereafter since "Paradise" was one of the highlights of his show. His voice is like a warm blanket...it's as if he's sitting next to you singing the lyrics.

"Banana Pancakes": Jack Johnson
(In Between Dreams, 2005)
Jack Johnson recently previewed his new album at Tower Records on a snowy March evening in the Village. The recorded version of this song has rain sound effects, which perfectly suits the cozy picture he paints about staying indoors, making banana pancakes, and just enjoying the comfort of intimacy with another person.

"Black is the Color of My True Love's Hair" (remix): Nina Simone
(Verve Remixed 2, 2003)
Truth be told, I still haven't heard the original version of this song, but the contemporary production adds to its haunting quality. The way Nina's vibrato delicately trembles sends shivers down my spine.

Why a blog? Why now?

Music is at the core of my identity. It informs how I navigate through life, it shapes my memories. Now more than ever before, it's central to my existence. Music is the back drop to my life in New York City - on the subway, in the apartment, at the office, walking down the sidewalk, sitting in cafes. Inspired by my friend Anamaria's recent establishment of her own blog, I decided to create a blog wherein I express my thoughts about the music I'm currently listening to. Each month, I'll post a list of five songs with one or two sentences about why they're on my playlist. I hope you'll feel welcome to share your thoughts or make your own recommendations! Happy listening...