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...