Hygher Baby* – Let U Go (NAT)
This is perhaps a little cheesy (maybe it would have been better to post tomorrow). However, I love the smooth sound, it reminds me of all the 90’s R’n’B that I am an utter sucker for. I like things that sound retro and current at the same time, it is a neat trick to pull off.
RjK
*Artist #449
Donny Hathaway – Someday we’ll all be free
Donny Hathaway was such a talent and another who died far too young. I first got into him when I heard his stupendous cover of Jealous Guy by John Lennon, which I posted last year.
The super weather has continued in London today. What is it about sunshine that makes every record sound exponentially better?
/RjK
Daft Punk – One More Time
My mind has been on California this week. I have had some correspondence from a few of my old homies and especially today, as the weather in London has a distinctly more Californian air that of late.
Daft Punk and Berkeley are inextricably linked in my mind. They were a huge part of the soundtrack to my year there, and I memorably saw them play live just before I left. One of the best shows I have ever been to.
This is a perfectly upbeat summer tune. I hope whereever you are listening to this you are in a summery mood. There is also a typically off beat and enjoyable video here.
RjK
Bee Gees – Night fever
It has been a bad week for the titans of Disco. I have been listening to the Bee Gees all day following the sad news about Robin Gibb. It doesn’t get much better than those harmonies.
After a very busy spell, I feel for the first time in a while today that I have my feet under me. Hopefully I can translate this into something productive.
RjK
Prefab Sprout – The king of Rock ‘n’ roll
Classic 80’s track, these guys really know how to put together a catchy tune. Great video here too, perfectly of it’s time.
When she looks at me and laughs, I remind her of the facts. I’m the king of rock’n’roll. Completely…
Short post today. Feeling pretty jaded after a big weekend, a big month really. I had an excellent day yesterday, despite the disappointing result. The Ulster fans made for a wonderful atmosphere and the team should be proud of a great season. They just came up against a superior side on the day.
RjK
Donna Summer* – Dim all the lights
Sad news about Donna Summer during the week. She was a real disco icon.
Big day today, just about to run out the door to meet a few buddies before the game. I am pretty excited for both the match and catching up with lots of old friends. Hopefully Ulster can squeak a win.
RjK
*Artist #448
The Doobie Brothers* – What a fool believes
This is a bit cheesy, but hard to dislike. Some great vocal harmony, not too mention facial hair here too. Also, a pretty enjoyable video. The “special effects” seem pretty funny now.
A big weekend ahead. Half of Ireland is descending on London for the European Rugby Cup final between Ulster (my team) and Leinster. Should be a fun and raucous weekend. There will be plenty of banter (and Guinness) to be had. If anyone wants an insight into Ulster humour, a friend of mine sent me this video earlier in the week.
RjK
*Artist #447
TV Girl* – Lizzy come back to life (NAT)
This is probably the best new track I have heard in a while. I have been listening to it endlessly this week. TV girl are from San Diego and have a lo-fi, washed out sound that remind me a little of Best Coast, who were favourites from last year. This track is taken from their new EP Benny and the Jetts (nice Elton John reference there, another great track). It makes me want to MOVE…
Very sad news today about Donna Summer, look out for a track by her over the weekend. Does anyone have any particular favourite of hers to recommend?
RjK
*Artist #446
A mid-week energy boost. This is a track that I first heard in Austin when I was there for SXSW festival a couple of years ago. It has a real upbeat, feelgood sound.
/RjK
*Artist #445
Taj Mahal* – Satisfied ‘n Tickled Too
Taj Mahal is an interesting artist whose work spans many decades and genres. He made music, such as this, that transformed the blues. You can really hear the Caribbean influence here, it is perfectly languid.
The lil’ red hen said to the lil’ red rooster “Rooster, you don’t come round my chicken shack as much as you used to”…
In other news I discovered this interesting blog: http://www.sleeveface.com/ Has anyone seen it before? It has a certain random charm. Something to aspire to for me.
RjK
*Artist #444