Brant's December 2020 Playlist

"Can you send back a Christmas tree once it's been chopped down?!?"

The last playlist of the year!  Considering what a rotten year 2020 was, I guess we're lucky to have made it here at all.  Anyway, Melania may not have any Christmas spirit, but I was feelin' it.  Along with the usual mix of new stuff, we've got some holiday songs!  Hope you enjoy.  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.  

1.  Experience (Victoria Monét with Khalid) - Songwriter for Ariana Grande and Fifth Harmony steps into the spotlight, with an assist from Khalid!  

2.  Night Walking (Lazarus Kane) - Peppy dance pop from charismatic new artist.

3.  Proxima B (Benjamin Gibbard) - Solo rock tribute to the closest planet outside of our solar system, from lead vocalist/guitarist of Death Cab for Cutie.

4.  Christmas Valentine (Ingrid Michaelson with Jason Mraz) - Our first Christmas tune is an enjoyable duet from two songwriting icons.  

5.  Words of a Fool (Barry Gibb with Jason Isbell) - Two other accomplished songwriters team up for this country-flavored ballad.  This is not your mama's Bee Gees.  Thanks to Jill for bringing it to my attention!  

6.  Anyway (May Erlewine and Woody Goss) - Michigan singer/songwriter seems to be channeling Christine McVie in this awesome folk-pop effort.  

7.  Gum (Emily Krueger) - Instagram star seems destined for pop stardom, if songs like this are any indication of her talent!

8.  Edge of Midnight /Midnight Sky Remix/ (Miley Cyrus vs Stevie Nicks) - Miley teams up with one of her influences for this energetic mashup.  

9.  That's Rock and Roll (Billie Joe Armstrong) - Shaun Cassidy has alwasy been a guilty pleasure of mine.  I never thought about anyone actually covering his songs, but if I had -  I think I'd agree that Green Day/Billie Joe Armstrong is a solid choice!  It's retro and new at the same time.  If only it were safe to go to the roller rinks, I'd adjust my rainbow-striped suspenders, slap on my neon lime high-top skates, and ask the DJ to play this as loudly as possible!  

10.  Cotton Candy (Yungblud) - Halsey's ex-boyfriend serves up some sticky-sweet pop-rock!  

11.  Lucid (Rina Sawayama) - British pop star is back and she does not disappoint with this exuberant dance ditty.

12 . Christmas Without You (Ava Max) - For whatever reason, I was not expecting a Christmas song from Ava "Sweet But a Psycho" Max!  I'm happily surprised AND entertained!  

13.  Get Me Some (Tokimonsta feat Drew Love and Dumbfoundead) - Jazzy lounge beats from proliferate LA producer and brain surgery survivor!  

14.  Hang Them on the Tree (June Christy) - I love this woman's voice.  June is no longer with us, but her spirit lives on in her recordings.  This is another selection from her 1961 holiday album ("The Merriest" being best known).  Considering the year we've had, a song about making lemons into lemonade seemed apropos!

15.  Pure Shores (Eliza Shaddad) - Groovy beats from London UK artist.

16.  Cigarette (Julian Lamadrid) - Bold alt rock from young Brooklyn-based Mexican artist.

17.  Harlem River Blues (Steve Earle) - We lost Justin Townes Earle back in August.  His father, Steve Earle, decided to record an album of JTE's songs, with proceeds going into a trust for the daughter Justin left behind.  A worthy cause that enables the rest of us to enjoy some great music.  

18.  Christmas Song (Phoebe Bridgers with Jackson Browne) - Indie rocker closes us out with this melancholy holiday song, assisted by the legendary Jackson Browne.

So that's December's playlist.  Hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season.  Here's hoping 2021 brings us better times, better leaders, and a COVID vaccine!  May we meet again in the New Year!  

Brant's November 2020 Playlist

 

It's the day before the U.S. election, and tensions are running high!  They're putting a fence around the White House, gun sales are up, and any leftover Halloween candy has been devoured in bouts of stress-eating.  I did manage to pull together a playlist for this month, even though I'm a day late.  If there's any theme to this month's list, I'd have to say it's the 1970s.  We've got the retro-rock of The Lemon Twigs, some dynamite covers of 70s songs, and even Bruce Springsteen and Elton John!  Hope you enjoy.  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Hog (the Lemon Twigs) - We had them on September's playlist, and I still can't get enough of the D'Addario brothers' twisted 1970s excess!  This would easily fit on the Rocky Horror soundtrack.  

2.  Black Myself (Our Native Daughters) - Talk about dream teams!  This is Rhiannon Giddens and Leyla McCalla of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, Amythyst Kia, and Allison Russell powerfully singing some ol' time folk-rock.  

3.  Thirteen (Bedouine, Waxahatchee, and Hurray for the Riff Raff) - Another great all-female collaboration, this time covering Big Star's 1972 ballad.

4.  Cascades (Denai Moore) - Dreamy electronic beats and harmonies from Jamaican/London artist.  

5.  Feels Right (Roosevelt) - German singer blesses us with a new album next year!  

6.  Day and Night (Dabuell with Holybrune) - I know I promised 1970s vibes, but this one falls distinctly into 1980s territory (and I'm not complaining!). 

7.  Under Pressure (Karen O and Willie Nelson) - Here's a duo I never expected to see!  Country legend teams up with the lead singer of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs to cover Queen and David Bowie!  

8.  Ghosts (Bruce Springsteen) - The Boss is back after 6 years and sounding as great as ever!

9.  Gameplay (the Brooks) - Some retro-70s style funk that brings to mind Average White Band.

10.  Crying at the Discotheque (Sophie Ellis-Bextor) - How has it been 20 years since Alcazar first released this song??? I loved it then, and I love SEB's cover of it!  

11.  Fou (L'Impératrice) - Did somebody mention the discotheque?  J'adore me some French disco.  Thanks to Gary for letting me know L'Impératrice had new music out!  

12.  Elevator Girl (Shura feat. Ivy Sole) - Sexy R&B jam from frequent Brantworld artist Shura.

13.  Be Mine (Ro James) - I'm definitely getting a 1980s Minneapolis Soul vibe here, and I am digging it!

14.  Straight to the Morning (Hot Chip feat. Jarvis Cocker) - Veteran English rocker teams up with veteran synth-pop act for this danceable ditty!

15.  Trouble's Coming (Royal Blood) - Peppy British alt-rock

16.  Ramble on Rose (Wynonna with Bob Weir) - It's always fun when you hear an artist cover something completely unexpected!  Here, Wynonna Judd joins a founding member of the Grateful Dead to cover one of their signature songs from 1972.

17.  Come Down in Time /Jazz Version/ (Elton John) - Elton released this version of a song off his classic Tumbleweed Connection album to celebrate its 50th Anniversary.  Hearing him in his early years, you can see why he was destined for greatness.  Thanks Eric for bringing it to my attention!

18.  Lonely in My Grief (the War and Treaty) - Speaking of acts that are destined for greatness - holy moly!  This husband/wife duo can SANG!!!  If Ray Charles is listening up in heaven, he's smiling.  Thanks to Andrea for introducing me to this couple.

So that's November's playlist.  Here's hoping whatever happens with tomorrow's election, that the country is able to pull together and move forward.  2020 has been bad enough without a Civil War.  Hopefully I'll be around next month with more music.  Stay safe out there!  

Brant's Halloween Go-To's (Ghost-To's?)

How am I supposed to enjoy my evening stroll through the cemetery when people keep putting crosses everywhere?!?

Let's face it - most people want to hear their own music, especially at a party!  So for a Halloween party, I encourage you to pull together the songs you and your friends love the most.  To make it a Halloween playlist, just pepper in a few seasonal selections. Below are my favorites that I never grow tired of hearing.  Enjoy!  

1.  Freakshow on the Dance Floor (the Bar-Kays) - Nothing like some old school funk to get the party going!  

2.  Monster Mash (Bobby "Boris" Pickett and the Crypt-Kickers) - A classic that will always be welcome on any playlist.

3.  Walking Through a Cemetery (Claudine Clark) - This is an obscure one, but tons of fun with a vintage 1960's doo-wop vibe.

4.  That Old Black Magic (Florence Henderson) - From the 1976 "Paul Lynde Halloween Special"!  A disco-fied version of the pop standard.

5.  Zombie Jamboree (Harry Belafonte) - Harry goes Halloween!

6.  Vampire Ska (Horny Toad) - More islandy sounds to celebrate the season, mon.

7.  Spooky (Imogen Heap) - Imogen's faithful cover of the Classics 1V song, from the "Just Like Heaven" soundtrack.

8.  Black Cat (Janet Jackson) - Technically not a Halloween song, but it'll get your party rockin'.  

9.  Stayin' Alive (Lizzo) - Lizzo breathes life into any party, especially when she covers the Bee Gees!

10.  Thriller (Micheal Jackson) - The Grammy-winning mack daddy of Halloween songs!

11.  Ghostbusters (Ray Parker Jr) - Classic song from a classic movie!

12.  Somebody's Watching Me (Rockwell) - Rumor has it that Michael Jackson thought he'd be singing with a choir at the time he recorded his vocals!  It ended up only MJ and Rockwell, but it's a fun song nonetheless!

13.  Witchcraft (Sarah Vaughan) - Sarah adds a touch of class to this bewitching tune.

14.  Nemesis (Shriekback) - An 80s rarity that always livens up a party, even though the dead are coming home!

15.  This Corrosion (Sisters of Mercy) - Danceable Goth vibes celebrating all that is rotten.

16.  Gidget Goes to Hell (Suburban Lawns) - A little punk rock ditty that probably isn't a Halloween song, but the chorus works.

17.  Night Time Fantasy (Vicki Sue Robinson) - I had to include a little more disco, this being from the 1979 soundtrack to the  cult vampire classic "Nocturna"!

Brant's October 2020 Playlist

Witch of us has a Zoom account?  It's time to log into the Halloween conference call!

Another month, and not much has changed!  And now it's looking like instead of a festive Halloween with friends and parties, it might just be a Zoom call (thanks to the pandemic). Oh, if only three witches could work their magic and get us out of this cursed year.    Until then, we'll keep plugging along - with coronavirus, a depressed economy, a president who refuses to condemn white supremacy, and (on the bright side) another batch of songs cobbled together as I try to hold on to some sense of normalcy!  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Preach (Saint Motel) - Upbeat alt rock to lift our spirits.

2.  Hot Stuff (Kygo feat. Donna Summer) - If it ain't broke, don't fix it.  And after successful remixes of Whitney and Tina, Kygo waves his magic wand over one of Donna Summer's disco hits.  I'm not mad about it!  

3.  Here Comes the End (Gerard Way feat. Judith Hill) - The My Chemical Romance guy is having a great year.  His awesome "Umbrella Academy" is now on Netflix, and he contributed this banger to the soundtrack!

4.  Vampire Ska (Horny Toad) - I wouldn't dream of having an October playlist without a Halloween song, and this one (from the "Things We Do in the Shadows" soundtrack) fit the bill!

5.  betty (Taylor Swift) - An easy country-flavored tune from her excellent "folklore" album.

6.  Rise Up Singing (Trigger Hippy) - Lifted from Jill's September playlist.  I always wondered what happened to Joan Osborne.  Happy to hear her contributing to this folksy rock band's sound.  She left the band in 2017, but it's a nice reminder of how great she is!

7.  I Need a Man (Prince) - From the Super Deluxe version of "Sign of the Times".  He apparently offered this to Bonnie Raitt but she never released her version.  I'm digging it!

8.  Who's Sorry Now (Angel Olsen) - Angel's voice is perfectly suited for this 1958 Connie Francis classic!

9.  Lost in Translation (the Neighbourhood) - More peppy alt rock to keep the party going (even if it's socially distanced!).

10.  Something About You (Elderbrook and Rudimental) - Percolating beats and falsetto vocals.

11.  Better Distractions (Faye Webster) - Jazzy soft rock perfect for sipping coffee and watching the autumn leaves drop.

12.  How Lucky (Kurt Vile with John Prine) - It's great to see how many younger artists paid tribute to John Prine after he passed.  It's even better to hear them singing with him!

13.  Surrender (Will Butler) - Arcade Fire member goes solo with some singalong pop!

14.  7 Seconds (Porridge Radio) - 80's influenced New Wave from British Indie band.

15.  Beautiful /Lewis OfMan Remix/ (Rhye) - Disco beats and Rhye's silky vocals make for a trippy and delicious dance extravaganza!

16.  Part-Time Lover (Nicole Chambers) - Not the Stevie Wonder classic, but still a jazzy soul jam!

17.  The Problem (Amanda Shires and Jason Isbell) - Can these two do any wrong?  They're even better when they team up.  I decided to end on a hopeful note with this latest collaboration.

So that's October's playlist!  See ya next month!

Brant's September 2020 Playlist

    

In hindsight, perhaps trying to cut my own hair during quarantine was a bad idea.

Oh, the solitude.  I'm doing my best to follow the stay-at-home regimen, but after 6 months it's really driving this extrovert crazy.  Apparently I'm not the only one.  This month's playlist is full of collaborations.  I don't know if these were recorded remotely or prior to the pandemic - but it's always interesting to see who teams up.  We've also got some second and third generation artists proving the proverbial apples don't fall far from the tree!  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Magnolia Road (the Allman Betts Band) - The sons of the Allman Brothers Band founders team up and demonstrate that a talent for Southern Rock runs in the family.  The baton has officially been passed. 

2.  Moon (the Lemon Twigs) - Glorious 70s rock in the style of Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman!  

3.  Vienna (Ben Platt) - This Billy Joel song wasn't really on my radar until I heard Platt cover it on "The Politician".  Ariana Grande also does a nice rendition.  

4.  Move Over Mama (Justin Townes Earle) - We lost JTE, son of country singer Steve Earle, this month from a "probable drug overdose".  2020 strikes again.  This is from his debut album. 

5.  More /Quiet Storm Version/ (Electric Guest) - Easy-going remix perfect for those end-of-summer sunsets.

6.  Slow Down (Skip Marley feat. H.E.R.) - Another legacy makes an appearance!  This time it's Bob Marley's grandson, teaming up with Grammy winning H.E.R. for some reggae.

7.  Malibu (Kim Petras) - German pop singer drops a new summery single!

8.  Dynamite (BTS) - I know it can be somewhat contrived and bubble-gummy - but if loving K-Pop is wrong, I don't want to be right.  

9.  Dionne (the Japanese House feat. Justin Vernon) - Trippy vocals and effects that bring to mind Imogen Heap's output from the 00's. 

10.  For Sure (Future Islands) - American synthpop band serves up some New Wave.  

11.  My God (the Killers feat. Weyes Blood) - I love it when my favorite artists collaborate!  I would never have paired them up on my own, but the results are spectacular.  

12.  Legends Never Die (Orville Peck feat. Shania Twain) - A country up-and-comer partners with one of the Queens of Country!  That DOES impress me much!  

13.  Drop Dead (Holly Humberstone) - Young British singer gives us an emotional piano-driven ballad. 

14.  Dancing in the Moonlight (Toploader) - Another tune I heard for the first time on Netflix!  This cover of King Harvest's 1973 classic was featured in a scene from "The Umbrella Academy".  

15.  Night Time (Borneland feat. Falcon Punch) - Jazzy beats from Copenhagen duo.

16.  Levitating /the Blessed Madonna Remix/ (Dua Lipa feat. Madonna and Missy Elliott) - Funky remix featuring Misdemeanor and TWO Madonnas!  

17.  Another Hit of Showmanship (the Struts feat. Albert Hammond Jr) - Anthemic Britpop to keep the party going!

18.  Smiling /F9 Club Remix/ (Alanis Morissette) - Alanis can be a tad intense for my tastes, but this remix is like a Xanax to take the edge off!

19.  Comet Song (Bright Eyes) - After numerous outside projects, Conor Oberst returns to his roots and sounds like he never left (in all the best ways)!  

So that's September's list.  Hope everyone has a safe Labor Day weekend, and I'll see ya next month.  

Brant's August 2020 Playlist

If I'd known Martha was going to show up,  I would have put some Snoop Dogg on this month's playlist!

August.  The last month of the summer.  Much like Martha's pic, I found myself gravitating towards songs with a summery vibe - easygoing country, poolside beats, and the occasional alt-rock bangers to fill the void left by cancelled concerts.  And I threw in some COVID-appropriate ditties as well.  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  New Best Friend (Neon Trees) - Considering we've all been cooped up at home for 5 months, crazy is everybody's new best friend!  

2.  Under the Milky Way (Beach Slang) -  A tasty cover of the Church's classic, with proceeds benefiting Alzheimer's research?  Yes, please!!!  Not on Spotify, but you can listen to it HERE.

3.  Be Kind (Marshmello feat. Halsey) - I know we're sick of being quarantined together, but be kind to the one you love, people!

 

4.  Don't Turn Around (Biig Piig) - Spotify suggested this to me, and I loved the old school Claudja Barry sample!

5.  The 1 (Taylor Swift) - Taylor obviously made better use of her quarantine time than I did, releasing a surprise album in the middle of the pandemic! 

6.  Radio Cloud (Ruston Kelly) - Alt Country singer from SC serves up some radio-friendly soft-rock.

7.  Unwed Fathers (John Prine with Margo Price) - The songwriting legend teamed up with country newcomer for this duet a few months before passing.  As for fatherhood - I bet there will be another Baby Boom after this pandemic is over.  

8.  Summer 2020 (Jhené Aiko) - West Coast singer delivers some poolside-ready beats.

9.  Every Single 1 (Aaron Childs) - Percolating soul that really gets my toes tappin'!

10.  Holiday (Little Mix) - British girl group is back with this infectious pop ditty.

11.  Hard Times for Lovers (Rumer) - Another return I was super excited about! Rumer is probably one of my favorite interpreters - whether it's Burt Bacharach or Isaac Hayes, she puts her glorious spin on them all.  This time around, she's covering songs by country songwriter Hugh Prestwood.  Can't wait to hear the rest of the album!

12.  Feel You (My Morning Jacket) - Trippy psychedelic rock reminiscent of Pink Floyd at their best.

13.  Rose Rouge (Jorja Smith) - Unexpected St. Germain cover that prompted me to dig out the original.  Back in the day, no cocktail party was complete unless St. Germain was on the stereo.  Cool to hear a new generation pay their respects!

14.  Good Time Girl (Buju Banton) - Another welcome comeback, this time from reggae legend Buju Banton!  Some upbeat ska for your cookout, mon!

15.  What's Love Got to Do with It (Kygo feat. Tina Turner) - Kygo follows his remix of Whitney Houston (on my July 2019 playlist!) with this enjoyable Tina Turner reboot!

16.  Sign (Roosevelt) - I feel like I've been Roosevelt-heavy lately, putting him on several playlists this year, but when all the songs are so good... 

17.  Femenenergy /Vince Clarke Remix/ (International Teachers of Pop) - New Wave royalty remixes the latest single by IToP!

18.  Deleter (Grouplove) - Frenetic punk rock that makes me long for the days of mosh pits!  

19.  Didn't Want to Be This Lonely (Pretenders) - Chrissie Hynde closes us out with some rollicking rockabilly!  I don't think any of us planned to be this lonely - thanks, coronavirus.  

So that's August's list.  Hope everyone is staying safe out there.  We'll see you (hopefully!) next month!  

 

Brant's July 2020 Playlist

Summer is in full swing, but you'd never know it to look outside!  Instead of joyful cha-cha lines of skaters, everyone is social distancing.  Concerts and baseball - also cancelled.  Thanks, Coronavirus.  On the bright side - there's still lots of music coming out.  I found myself gravitating towards personal faves this time around - artists who have appeared on multiple playlists, fun covers of favorite songs.  Maybe it's the audible version of "comfort food".  Anyway, hope you enjoy!  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Come On (Mondo Cozmo) - Philadelphia indie rocker gets us started with this Beatles-esque anthem.

2.  The Steps (HAIM) - The HAIM sisters keep the classic rock vibes going with their latest ditty.

3.  Country Boy Lovin' (Dillon Carmichael) - Spotify suggested this and I immediately gravitated towards its Randy Travis/Alan Jackson old-school country sound.

4.  Dancing On My Own (Grouplove) - Alt rockers cover Robyn's 2010 hit.

5.  One More Song /Lazywax Remix/ (Classixx feat. Roosevelt) - I will follow Roosevelt anywhere.  His voice is like musical Xanax in all the best ways.

6.  Maniac (Conan Gray) - Some bubblegum pop also calms the nerves!

7.  Girlfriend (Charlie Puth) - Another personal fave returns with this R&B jam.

8.  The Man That Got Away (Billy Porter) - "Pose" has become one of my favorite shows, and this was from season two.  Billy Porter covers Judy and proves that he truly is a gift we mortals do not deserve!

9.  Witness 4 the Prosecution /Version 1/ (Prince) - The Prince estate continues to raid the vaults, and it's hard to be mad about that with so many great songs coming out!  This is from the Super Deluxe edition of "Sign o' the Times", to be fully released this September.

10.  Lie Out Loud (Bloxx) - English band serves up some energetic rock.

11.  Read My Lips (Jessie Ware) - It was hard to pick just one song from Jessie's latest album, but I finally settled on this one - 80s-flavored soul that is part Evelyn "Champagne" King, part, Jody Watley, and 100% divine.  Thanks, Eric, for reminding the album was out!

12.  Kings and Queens (Ava Max) - I kinda thought Ava might be a one-hit wonder after "Sweet but Psycho", but I stand corrected!

13.  Perfect Way to Die (Alicia Keys) - Alicia giving me all the feels with this tribute to the victims of police brutality.

14.  Letting Me Down (Margo Price) - Soft country-rock from Nashville artist.

15.  Take Me Home, Country Roads (Whitney feat. Waxahatchee) - I will also follow Waxahatchee anywhere!  Here, she joins Chicago Indie band for a heartfelt John Denver classic.

16.  Wonderwall (Teemid) - This came on the other night and it took me a while to fully appreciate what I was hearing.  French artist takes the Oasis anthem and completely reinvents it!

17.  Automatic Lover (Wolfram feat. Peaches) - Another unexpected cover - this time, dance/punk diva Peaches covers an obscure disco space jam!

18.  I Love America (Patrick Juvet) - With Independence Day coming up, I had to include something pro-USA.  This tune by (ironically!) French singer Patrick Juvet fit the bill!  Not on Spotify, but you can listen to it here.

So that's July's list!  Hope everybody has a safe and happy holiday, and I'll see you next month!  Wear your face masks!!!

Brant's June 2020 Playlist

Space Force tryouts were more rigorous than I expected!

Coronavirus, murder hornets, massive unemployment, police brutality against people of color.  2020 continues to dole out one bad thing after another.  Stay-at-home restrictions are being relaxed, but it still doesn't feel safe to go outside. Some of the songs on this month's playlist were recorded at home by the artists (Charli XCX, intentionally focusing on her art while in isolation; Fiona Apple, who started her latest album prior to the pandemic but completed it during).  Those of us without artistic expertise find ourselves thinking, "Maybe I should join Space Force just to get off this rotten planet!"  Until then, we've got some new music.  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Rain on Me (Lady Gaga with Ariana Grande) - Pure escapist joy, from two gay icons.  I expect to be hearing this, and any subsequent remixes, all summer.  And I'm fine with that!

2.  But It Ain't You (Smoothie) - Groovy, space-age funk/disco from LA artist.

3.  detonate (Charli XCX) - Written while isolating with her boyfriend during the pandemic, it's clear cabin fever was setting in!

4.  Get It Right (Hajk) - This contemplative track from a Norwegian Indie band seemed like the perfect song to follow the restlessness of Charli XCX.

5.  We Broke (Cole DeGenova) - On his website, DeGenova describes his music as "somewhere between a soul pop concert, South Side jazz club, slam poetry reading, and punk rock dive bar".  Sounds about right.  I just dig the energy!

6.  Someone Like You (Snoh Aalegra) - A Swedish soul singer of Persian descent, now living on the West Coast of the US.  I love the worldliness of that.  And I love this song.

7.  Lilacs (Waxahatchee) - We had one selection from Waxahatchee's new album on April's playlist, but I had to add another!  Her music is like a soothing glass of sweet tea on an uncomfortably hot summer day, and in these trying times I can't get enough of it.

8.  In Light of Us (Honey Harper) - This sounds like it came from a jukebox at a small, Southern roadside bar from back in the 1970s.  Call it 'time-traveling escapism'.

9.  Alter Ego (KALEO) - Icelandic rock band, also featured on my April 2016 playlist, is back and once again I'm blown away by lead singer JJ Julius Son's fantabulous vocals!

10.  the end (Misterwives) - NYC Indie band serves up some New Wave-flavored percussive pop.

11.  Ladies (Fiona Apple) - Phew!  I don't know if I could listen to Apple's new album all-the-way through in one sitting, but it is an impressive work of art.  Intense, insightful, and unhinged - I guess it's everything we would expect from Fiona Apple.  I do love this particular selection - which easily could've been a Nina Simone song.

12.  Ventura Highway (Paco Versailles) - An EDM version of a classic America song?  File this under "Things That Should Not Work But Do"!

13.  Villain (Chenny Britt) - Boston artist delivers a soulful hip-hip track.

14.  The Key to Life on Earth (Declan McKenna) - Young British singer eschews conformity, much to the chagrin and bewilderment of his contemporaries.  It has a Jobriath/Thomas Dolby feel to it which I find appealing.

15.  This Love Isn't Crazy (Carly Rae Jepsen) - Oh Carly - how I adore you!  I'm noticing as I write up this month's list that there is a trend towards escapism.  You're joyful music never fails to take me to somewhere happy, and I thank you for that.

16.  Train to Mexico (Toby Sebastian) - More escapism, this time with a hint of Taylor Swift's "Shake It Off', if it had been done as a rockabilly song.

17.  Man on Fire (Sam Cohen) - 60s style rock/psychedelia from former Apollo Sunshine founding member.

18.  Make the Most (Lonr., H.E.R.) - Two Grammy winners join forces to make beautiful R&B music together!

19.  in the afternoon (josef salvant) - Easy going pop from Australian artist.

20.  Surrender /Eric Kupper Remix/ (Diana Ross) - Eric Kupper remixed an entire album's worth of Diana Ross songs!  I'd never heard the original of "Surrender", which may be why it's the track that made the biggest impression on me.  Hopefully these updates on classics will introduce the Divine Diana to a new generation of listeners!

So that's June's playlist.  One can only hope that 2020 turns itself around for the second half of the year, but if I'm still here - I'll continue to try to share my latest music finds!  Until then...

Brant's May 2020 Playlist

There's nothing like the Art At Home Challenge to restore your pluck!
Original art by Grant Wood, "The Appraisal", 1931 

Welp, another month has passed and we're all still under stay-at-home orders.  Thanks, Coronavirus.  There's been things to keep me occupied - try new recipes, do the Art At Home Challenge (see above pic), and of course work on another playlist!  We have a little bit of everything this month, including two World Music tracks (the closest I'll get to traveling for a while) and two MIKA songs!  Enjoy!  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.   Sunflower (Dizzy) - Award-winning Canadian band gets us going with some sunny alt-rock.

2.   Caution (the Killers) - I never get tired of Brandon Flowers and his Vegas band.  Looking forward to their new album.

3.   Hard Feelings (Brian Fallon) - Former Gaslight Anthem singer continues an impressive solo career with this gorgeous acoustic offering.

4.   Sunlight (Tasha Angela) - More sunny vibes from Canada!  Are they getting more sunlight than we are?

5.   Tomorrow (MIKA) - I almost forgot how much I love MIKA!  He's mellowed since his debut 12 years ago, but I'm still digging his unmistakable sound.

6.   Radar Love (the Centerfold) - This group popped up randomly on Facebook, and the 80s vibes just make me happy.  This is their cover of Golden Earring's 1973 hit, which the Centerfold recorded and released in 1986. 

7.  Willing (Deeper) - Some angsty-80s vibes from Chicago band, who suffered the tragic loss of their bassist last November.  Seems to fall into an early New Order vibe, and I'm here for it!

8.  Lonely (Geowulf) - Australian duo chooses solitude over unrequited love and sounds way more cheerful than I would, but considering the social distancing recommendations - their timing couldn't be better!

9.  Never Tear Us Apart (the National) - Unexpected but welcome cover of INXS's 1987 hit.  Released with funds going to aid Australia as it battles wildfires.

10.  Big Black Train (Lucinda Williams) - Multiple Grammy winner returns with some world weary folk for these trying times.

11.  Who's Gonna Save You Now? (Rina Sawayama) - Up and coming Japanese-British singer confidently struts onto the stage with some bold arena rock!

12.  Paper Cup (Real Estate feat. Sylvan Esso) - 1970s-styled Indie Rock from Brooklyn band.

13.  Youth and Love (Jack Savoretti feat. MIKA) - Our 2nd MIKA tune:  this time a guilty-pleasure disco duet with handsome Englishman Savoretti.

14.  Don't Diss the Disco (International Teachers of Pop) - We had them on last September's playlist, and I happily add them again.  I'm becoming very fond of this "nerd disco" band.

15.  Another Love (Little Dragon) - Another repeat from previous playlists.  An exquisite slow jam from Swedish electronic band.

16.  Nominate (Stonebwoy & Keri Hilson) - Some African beats from Ghanaian singer, with an assist from American Keri Hilson!

17.  All of the Feelings (Kiesza) - Kiesza gets her Carly Rae Jepsen on with some exuberant pop!

18.  It's a Moot Point (Melanie Faye) - If Mariah Carey could shred on the guitar, I think this would be how it'd sound, with a touch of Santana!

19.  Nothing to See Here (Tenille Arts) - Wistful country from Canadian newcomer.  I'm very Canadian-heavy this month! 

20.  Dark Days (Gerry Cinnamon) - Singalong, uplifting Scottish folk from popular UK artist.

So that's May's playlist!  In these uncertain times, who knows what the future holds?  It's going to be tough during summer concert season if we're all still quarantined - but I guess all we can do is try to listen to health experts and hope this pandemic eases up soon.  Stay safe everyone!  Hope to see you next month. 

Brant's April 2020 Playlist

Brunch ain't what it used to be, but at least you can turn the music up when the conversation lags.

Spring is typically a time when I retreat due to the pollen, but this coronavirus has forced me to take it to an all-new level!  I have to admit, I'm getting a little stir crazy.  Luckily there has been plenty of good music to delve into.  This month's list tends towards the chill side, but since all the clubs are closed anyway - perhaps that's for the best.  So pour yourself a refreshing drink, get comfortable, and press 'play'.  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.


1.  Boys on Canvas (Diane Birch) - Prince-approved pianist is back to get us started with some jazzy vibes.  Can't wait for her new album!

2.  No No (Scott Hirsch) - Founding member of Hiss Golden Messenger goes solo, and is serving groovy psychedelic folk to go with your social distancing.

3.  Baby Powder (Jenevieve) - West Coast artist cites Aaliyah as an influence, and I can hear it in this slinky R&B groove.

4.  Break My Heart (Dua Lipa) - I guess I need to just save space for a Dua Lipa song in every playlist going forward!  Her new album "Future Nostalgia" is 🔥🔥🔥

5.  Blinding Lights (the Weeknd) - I saw him perform this on SNL and loved the early 80s synths!

6.  Amy, Run for the Hills (courtship.) - Sunny dream-pop from Indie band.

7.  I Love You's (Hailee Steinfeld) - Academy Award nominated actress and singer gives us a reboot of The Lover Speaks' classic!

8.  Sadness Is a Shade of Blue (Låpsley) - Moody electronica from British artist.

9.  Right Down the Line (Sam Evian) - This is one of those songs I've had in the cue for several playlists over the months, and it always got bumped because it didn't quite fit in whatever mix I was compiling.  It's a pretty straightforward reading of Gerry Rafferty's 1978 hit, but the mellow tone fits in perfectly with April's list!

10.  Wildflower (5 Seconds of Summer) - I do love me some boy bands, so here's this month's selection!

11.  Spotlight (Oracle Sisters) - Okay, I had these guys pegged as a jam band from Austin, Texas or something.  What a shock to learn they are French!  This tune could go on any Grateful Dead-inspired playlist.

12.  Can't Do Much (Waxahatchee) - Waxahatchee's Katie Crutchfield is back and paying homage to her Southern country roots, and the results are as tasty as Grandma's corn fritters!

13.  Where You Belong (Little Dragon) - Another welcome return!  I'll pretty much follow Yukimi Nagano anywhere, but I especially love when she dives into 90s R&B.

14.  Moon Rider (Jai Wolf feat. Wrabel) - I sent my friend Bruce a request for music to check out while I'm cooped up at home, and he didn't disappoint.  He pointed me towards Jai Wolf, and this new song is light years away from the trippy "Indian Summer", but with Wrabel's soaring vocals and smooth keyboards it's impossible not to be swept away!

15.  Say So (Doja Cat) - We can't currently pile into a convertible with this song cranked up on the car stereo, but once the stay-at-home orders are lifted...

16.  Shy (Jank Setup) - Easy, breezy jazz from New Orleans band

17.  F#ck with Me (Pokey LaFarge) - How have I not heard of Pokey before now?!?  I'm loving his retro-swamp blues!  This is a rabbit hole I'll happily go down.  Expect more Pokey on future playlists.

18.  The Stranger (Ingrid Andress) - Contemporary country from rising star.

19.  Closer to You (Adam Lambert) - Playing with Queen gave him an outlet for his over-the-top theatrical side, but personally I think Adam Lambert really shines on an Elton John-style ballad like this.

So that's April's list!  Who knows where we'll be in May, but if I'm here I'll do my darnedest to have another playlist for ya.  Until then - stay safe and healthy!

Brant's March 2020 Playlist

The groundhog promised an early Spring, so turn those tummies off (the commercials are all political ads anyway)
 and enjoy some sunshine!  

Welp, the people have spoken and Trump is impeached but not removed, and the Groundhog promises an early Spring.  All I can promise is some new music.  For some reason this month has a lot of Jessies/Jessys!  I'm not sure how that happened but I am not complaining.  They are all fantastic (hope you agree!). To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  10,000 Hours (Dan + Shay feat. Justin Bieber) - The Biebs goes country!  Not sure if that explains the 'stache he was wearing for his SNL appearance, but I'm digging this song!

2.  Far Away (Jessie Reyez) - Another delicious ballad, this time from Canadian singer/songwriter Jessie Reyes (our first Jessie!).

3.  Vocal Honey (Finley Quaye) - Scottish singer serves up some sunny 70s vibes.

4.  Van Horn (Saint Motel) - We've had them on previous playlists, so this is a welcome return for Indie Pop band Saint Motel.

5.  Automatic Driver (La Roux) - La Roux is also a returning favorite, with the mid-tempo electronic grooves that made me love her all those years ago.

6.  I'm Gonna Love You Just a Little More Baby (Summer Walker) - I found this buried on the Birds of Prey soundtrack, and immediately loved this female-led Barry White cover!

7.  Take It (Donnie and Joe Emerson feat. Eldon) - So the story with these guys is that their father encouraged them to make their own music, even building a recording studio for them in the late 1970s.  Turns out, they were pretty good.  Not much happened for the Emersons until 2008, when a record collector found their album at an antique store and began telling people about it. Eventually, a record label re-released their stuff, and they've even had contemporary artists cover their songs!  This one's not a bad song - it sounds like an Indie Country record!  It just goes to show that you never know when fame will come knocking at your door.

8.  Late for the Sky (Jackson Browne) - Last night I saw Lucy Kaplansky at a show, and when she covered this beautiful tune my friend and I were instantly obsessed!  I love Jackson Browne but had never paid attention to this particular song.  I'm so glad to have it on my radar now.

9.  Finally/Beautiful Stranger (Halsey) - Another great song about young love, this time from American singer/songwriter Halsey.

10.  In the Wild (Lola Lennox) - Annie Lennox's daughter is off to a strong start with this powerful anthem.  I can't wait to see what she does next!

11.  A Moment /Helado Negro Remix/ (Jerry Paper) - Quirky electronic beats from American musician.

12.  Everything (Sam Sparro) - Sam is back with some 90s style New Jack Swing and I am here for it!

13.  Meet Me on the Roof (Green Day) - Another welcome comeback by American rock band.

14.  Supply and Demand (Wilder Woods) - Former football player "Bear" Rinehart begins a new solo project, and seems to have been influenced by early 1970s soul bands like The Main Ingredient!

15.  Ode to Artifice (Samia) - Self-published singer/songwriter keeps the happy vibes going.

16.  Clap Your Hands (Jessy Wilson) - Brooklyn artist (and our 2nd Jessy!) delivers some soulful and muscular rock, with an assist from the Black Keys' Patrick Carney.

17.  I'll Take Care of You (Gil-Scott Heron and Makaya McCraven) - Jazz drummer refurbishes/remixes one of the greats!

18.  Spotlight (Jessie Ware) - Our 3rd Jessie takes us from the rock stage of Jessy Wilson to the dance floor!  I'm loving the disco flavahs, complete with a Donna Summer-style slow jam intro!

19.  Physical (Dua Lipa) - We had Dua Lipa on January's playlist, and this is the second single from her upcoming album "Future Nostalgia".

20.  Nasty (the Jack Moves) - Jersey band closes us out with this fun and funky jam!

So that's March's playlist!  Hope everyone has a safe and happy month, and I'll see you in April!

Brant's February 2020 Playlist

This is what I get for saying "I don't know Lev Parnas" three times in the mirror!

The second month of the year 2020 is here!  The impeachment trial is underway (although it's looking like it will be the first impeachment trial in US history without witnesses - so have a seat, Lev!), and the Groundhog is on standby in case they need a tiebreaker vote.  Meanwhile, we've got some new music for ya!  I rediscovered my love for garage bands recently, so there are more of them included this month than usual - but we still have plenty of other genres to enjoy as well.  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Good Stuff (Becca Stevens) - Like the song says, Carolina girls are the best in the world!  Let's start this month off with the jazzy stylings of Winston-Salem native Becca Stevens.

2.  Go Crazy (G. Love and Special Sauce feat. Keb' Mo') - Two bluesy legends make beautiful (and danceable) music together!

3.  What You Need (KAYTRANADA feat. Charlotte Day Wilson) - It was hard to pick just one song off Kaytranada's latest album!  Groovy beats to suit any weekend evening.

4.  Alone at Last (Rachael & Vilray) - Sometimes a song can transport you to a different time and place.  This one does that for me.  It reminds me of the minimalistic pop of artists like Julie London back in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

5.  Waiting for a Train (Pete Molinari) - And speaking of the 1960s, Pete Molinari is back with more of his delicious retro-folk!  It's been 6 years since his last album and I forgot how much I love him.

6.  Dangerous (Soraia) - This tune was featured on The Underground Garage last month and I can't get enough of it!  Philly band serves up some gritty rock-n-roll.

7.  Every Feeling (Ezra Furman) - I'm definitely on an Ezra Furman kick!  Shades of "Knocking on Heaven's Door" come through on this song from the "Sex Education" soundtrack.

8.  Distance /acoustic version/ (Emily King) - Lovely acoustic version of a track from her 2015 album "The Switch".

9.  Everyday (Weyes Blood) - I had "Something to Believe" on last month's list, but wanted to include another great song from Weyes Blood's latest album.

10.  Shadows /Midnight Version/ (Roosevelt) - Roosevelt is another fave of mine, and this extended version of a track from 2018's "Young Romance" album takes everything that was great about the song and doubles-down on it!  If Studio 54 were still around, this would be in heavy rotation there.

11.  Barracuda (Kristine W) -  A club diva returns with this muscular cover of the 1977 Heart classic.  I fully expect to hear this at Pride events for the next 11 months!

12.  Baptise Me (Robert Randolph and the Family Band) - Grammy nominees douse us with some robust blues-rock.

13.  Hooker Jon (the Black Lips) - This song makes me smile every time I play it!  Country-tinged garage rock from Georgia band that calls to mind songs like "Punk Rock Girl" by the Dead Milkmen and "Far Away Eyes" by the Rolling Stones.

14.  Sea Gets Hotter (Durand Jones and the Indications) - 1970s soul vibes from Indiana band.

15.  Voodoo (Shay Lia feat. Buddy) - I think Gary turned me on to this.  Frequent Kaytranada (see #3) collaborator demonstrates she is perfectly capable of producing some top-notch R&B on her own!

16.  Thank Me Later (Anna of the North) - Easy-going pop from Norwegian artist.

17.  Hymn for the 81% /demo/ (Daniel Deitrich) - Excoriating assessment of Christian hypocrisy, specifically referencing the 81% of evangelicals who voted for Trump after hearing an audio recording of him bragging about sexually assaulting women.

18.  St. Valentine's Day Massacre (Cocktail Slippers) - One of my favorite all-female garage bands (also from Norway!) doing their salute to Valentine's Day, from 2009.

19.  Brighter (Rüfüs Du Sol) - Grammy nominated Australian dance artists anticipate warmer weather with some sunny, summery beats (we'll see if the Groundhog backs them up on this)!

So, that's February's playlist.  See ya next month!

Brant's January 2020 Playlist

It wouldn't be 2020 without Barbara!  

Whoa!  A new year, a new decade, and a new playlist!  For this month, I tried to find some upbeat and fun stuff to launch us into the new decade.  I also borrowed a few fantabulous R&B tunes from my friend Gary's 11.11 playlist, so thanks for him for those finds.  So, without further adieu - let's get going.  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Runaway Train /DJ Marble and Professor Stretch Club Remix/ (Culture Club feat. Gladys Knight) - Talk about Dream Teams!!!  I can't think of a better was to start us off than with this delicious remix featuring Boy George and Gladys Knight.  And I thought she only sang about Midnight Trains!   Thanks Eric for bringing it to my attention.

2.  Oh No (Softee) - Brooklyn-based artist brings us some shimmery 80s vibes to keep the dance party going.

3.  Ready for the Ride (Amber Liu) - Former Korean girl group member serves up a nice slow jam.

4.  Tonight You Might (Synthia feat. Lady Wray) - More soulful R&B that sounds like a classic Betty Wright groove.

5.  Who's Gonna Make My Mistakes (Caroline Spence) - I can't remember where I heard this, but I'm totally digging the humorous country vibes.

6.  Falling (Harry Styles) - I'm still loving Harry's latest album!  This piano-driven ballad really showcases his voice.

7.  Something to Believe (Weyes Blood) - American singer/songwriter has been compared to Joni Mitchell, and deservedly so.  Gorgeous vocals over rich instrumentation that recalls Joni's late-1970s material.

8.  Western World (Lion Babe feat. Raekwon) - Pet Shop Boys-inspired jazzy beats.

9.  Kill or Be Kind (Samantha Fish) - Samantha's bluesy performance at Paste Magazine showed up on my social media feeds, and I was blown away.  Looking forward to following her for years to come.

10.  Good Book (Ezra Furman) - We had her on November's playlist, and what a treat to find Ezra covering one of my personal fave 1960s artists - Melanie!

11.  Bernadette (Reina del Cid) - She's American, but this tune reminds me of some of the French chansons I listened to when I traveled to Paris back in the early 00s.

12.  Die to Live (Volbeat feat. Neil Fallon) - Meanwhile, these guys are European but totally capturing the American hard rock vibes of the 1980s!

13.  Don't Start Now (Dua Lipa) - English singer is giving me shades of Jamiroquai with her latest single, which just hit #1 on the dance charts.

14.  Change (Arin Ray and Kehlani) - X Factor alumnus teams up with Kehlani for this soulful duet.

15.  Speakeasy (Frankie Lee) - Mellow folk from Minnesota native.

16.  Lover (Taylor Swift with Shawn Mendes) - Titular song from Taylor's latest album gets a delectable remix with added vocals from the delectable Shawn Mendes!

17.  Don't Want This to Be Over (Kraak and Smaak) - Musical trio from the Netherlands has been going strong for over a decade, and this latest offering doesn't seem to indicate any loss of momentum!

18.  I'd Rather Spend the Bad Times with You Than Spend the Good Times with Someone New (Thelma Houston) - This was off Thelma's criminally out-of-print 1984 album "Qualifying Heat", and was produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.  I got my hands on a copy of the album over Christmas and have been playing it non-stop.  Not on Spotify, but you can listen to it HERE.

So that's January's playlist!  Hope everyone had a great holiday season, and that the New Year is good to you.  See ya next month!