Time for another round of Peter’s Picks! This collection of songs is definitely an eclectic one. Should give you an idea of why shuffling Peter’s Spotify library is a risky proposition.
Leon Vynehall – Envelopes (Chapter VI)
On his 2018 album Nothing is Still, Leon Vynehall used the story of his grandparent’s emigration from England to New York City to frame a set of beautifully emotional ambient electronic songs. I highly recommend the album if you like this kind of music. “Envelopes (Chapter VI)” is my favorite track, and its music video is appropriately cinematic.
Jacques – Tout Est Magnifique
Jacques has one of the more questionable hair styles I’ve ever seen but I’m willing to give him a pass after hearing this fascinating piece of ear candy.
The Blaze – Territory
Another beautifully shot, very cinematic music video.
Myd – Bingo
Based on the cover of this EP, I’d guess that Myd has a good sense of humor. He makes some pretty awesome music to boot.
Alex Gopher – On & On
It’s a shame Alex Gopher hasn’t released more music considering how catchy songs like “On & On” are. “Back to Basics” is another great track on this EP.
Marvin Gaye – Sunny (Mercury Edit II)
This is one of those songs that never fails to put me in a better mood.
Al Green – Back Up Train
Al Green was just over 20 years old when he released this song / debut album in 1967. I’m 36 and can confidently say I’ll never have this much soul.
Fela Kuti – Let’s Start
Nigerian Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti’s music has had a much deserved resurgence over the past several years. This is easily my favorite song of his.
SOS (Sociedad Organizada en Sonido) – Buscaya Da Yada
Can’t say that 1970s Mexican funk is a genre I know a lot about, but this song rocks.
Thunder Tillman – Exact Location of the Soul
Thunder Tillman is a Swedish psychedelic jamrock / electronic music duo that look like time travellers from a hippie sex cult. Their aesthetic seems pretty genuine – one of their most recent releases was the 2022 LP Aural Healing Program for Peace and Longevity, which was accompanied by a hilariously weird “visual healing session”.
Mata Hari – Easy
1970s Australian rock set to a pretty cool animated video.
Twin Peaks – Walk to the One You Love
Twin Peaks are an awesome garage rock band of out of Chicago. “Walk to the One You Love” not surprisingly makes for great walking music.
Dr. Dog – Heart it Races
I’ve loved Dr. Dog, and especially this 2007 cover of an Architecture In Helsinki song, since I was a teenager. They consistently make good music that’s easy to listen to.
Widowspeak – The Drive
This video reminds me of long drives through the Nevada desert. There’s nothing like a good playlist to go along with an “open road, filling endless spaces”.