Brant's September 2019 Playlist

Here's the story, of a lovely playlist... 

Whoa!  I was just getting used to the idea that Woodstock was 50 years ago, and now I'm hearing that the Brady Bunch is also celebrating a Golden Anniversary!  1969 was a good year!  I'm not convinced that 2069 will look back on 2019 so fondly, but at least we had some decent music.  This month's playlist is posted (and early, to get your holiday weekend going!), and skews slightly towards R&B and jazz influences.  Hope you enjoy!  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Remind Me (Emily King) - Grammy nominee Emily King has been working in the industry since 2004, but didn't land on my radar until I heard this juicy R&B number!  I'll be paying attention from now on!

2.  Floating /filous Remix/ (Alina Baraz feat. Khalid) - The first of our two Khalid songs!  Here, he collaborates with American soul singer/songwriter Alina Baraz.

3.  Rubberband of Life /Amerigo Gazaway Remix/ (Miles Davis feat. Ledisi) - A lost Miles Davis album gets to see the light of day!  When Davis began recording his first album for Warner Brothers, he was wanting to go in a more contemporary, urban direction.  Apparently the label pushed back, and those tracks were abandoned for the sleeker material found on Tutu.  Davis' nephew Vince Wilburn Jr and original producers Randy Hall and Attala Zane Giles decided in 2017 that it was finally time to update and release the "Rubberband" album.  Ledisi's vocals fill in for Chaka Khan (who I read was originally intended to sing on this track back in 1986), and Amerigo Gazaway's smooth remix completes the work started more than 30 years ago!  The rest of the album comes out later in September.

4.  Matahari (L'Impératrice) - The French have never given up on disco, and I will always love them for that!  This track from Parisian band L'Impératrice makes me want to put on my most bedazzled leisure suit and hit the nearest lighted dance floor!

5.  Bra (Cymande) - British funk band released this album in 1972, but it still sounds great today!  I heard this song while out on the town one night last month and had Google identify it for me.  Figured I'd share it since it was previously unknown to me.  Sounds like a combo of War and Santana!

6.  Black Cadillac (Mondo Cozmo) - We've had Mondo Cozmo on other playlists, and I'm still digging his feel-good Indie Rock!

7.  Hobo Blues (Balsam Range) - NC band and previous International Bluegrass Music Award winners serve up some solid Americana.

8.  Saturn (Nao feat. Kwabs) - This slow jam is almost a year old, but a recent live performance reminded me how great she is!

9.  Whisper (Betty Who) - Speaking of live performances:  I've already had two tracks from Betty Who's album on other playlists, but after seeing her perform at Charlotte Pride this year - I couldn't resist featuring one more!  She and Carly Rae Jepsen are revitalizing pop music today, and for that I thank them.

10.  Entitlement Crew (the Hold Steady) - Music veterans are back with their witty and upbeat brand of classic rock!

11.  Mustang Ridge (Tanya Tucker) - When I heard that Brandi Carlile had worked with Tanya Tucker on a new album, I dropped everything to hear it.  I was not disappointed!  It's chock full of great songs and contemplative lyrics worthy of a country legend.

12.  This Too Shall Pass (Jamestown Revival) - Another band I've had on previous playlists!  This is mellower than some of their other material, but the harmonizing vocals are spot-on as always.

13.  Take Good Care of My Heart (Le Flex) - Eric turned me on to this.  A lost Whitney Houston/Jermaine Jackson duet is faithfully covered by London artist.

14.  All or Nothing (Chloe Martini) - Gary turned me on to this, and I'm obsessed with the New Jack Swing vibe!  Sounds like an outtake from one of Janet Jackson's albums.

15.  Better (Khalid) - Our second Khalid contribution.  If Betty Who and Carly Rae are saving Pop Music, then Khalid is the Saviour of Slow Jams!

16.  Interstellar (International Teachers of Pop) - Todd turned me on to this band.  They bill themselves as "Nerd Disco", and seem to be channeling that era when the line between disco and New Wave was still blurry and space travel was all the rage.  Whatever it is, I am here for it!  Perhaps once Trump gets Space Force going, IToP can play the launch parties!

17.  forever (Shura) - Shura never lets me down, and this optimistic soul groove makes me smile!  #ShuraForever

18.  Night Time Is the Right Time (Tina Turner) - This is from Tina's first solo album after leaving Ike, which is criminally out-of-print.  I was thrilled to be able to track down a copy!  Tina gives Ray Charles a run for his money with this spirited rendition of one of his signature tunes.  Not on Spotify, but you can check it out HERE.

So that's September's playlist!  Hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday, and I'll see you next month!

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 January 2022 Playlist

When you were really excited about the winter weather,
but it's been 70 degrees all weekend...

Our first playlist of 2022!  I actually debated whether to continue doing these, but at the end of the day - I really enjoy finding new music.  It's also fun to be able to look back at the lists from previous years.  Anyway, here's a fresh batch of songs.  Some of the themes were a tad dark, despite the upbeat presentation!  That wasn't intentional on my part, but feels appropriate given the last two years.  Let's hope 2022 is better to us than her predecessors!  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Last Day on Earth (beabadoobee) - Filipino-British singer/songwriter addresses the angst that sometimes comes in a New Year with an appropriately titled, but deceptively cheerful, ditty!

2.  Under the Rolling Moon (Ducks Ltd) - Toronto band serves up some jangly alt-rock.

3.  Train in Vain (Rostam) - A dreamy cover of the Clash classic.  

4.  Drugs (Anderson East) - Blue-eyed soul singer who last appeared on our March 2018 playlist is back with this dark but peppy disco tune!  

5.  All I Feel Is Rain (Khalid feat JID) - I love me some Khalid, and was very psyched to see he had released a new mix tape last month.  

6.  Walk On By (the Baylor Project) - Grammy-nominated Jean Baynor and husband also make a welcome comeback! It's not the Dionne Warwick song but still a great R&B performance.  

7.  Nothing's Ever Gonna Be Good Enough (Miles Kane feat. Corinne Bailey Rae) - This is one of those vivacious pop songs that only seem to come out of the UK.  Sounds like something Paul Weller would've done during his Style Council years.  

8.  Fire in Your House (Walk the Moon feat. Johnny Clegg and Jesse Clegg) - Frequent Brantworld listees continue to serve up great music.

9.  Don't You Worry About Me (Bad Boy Chiller Club) - This is a balls-to-the-wall party anthem.  I fully expect to hear it in some Netflix college/high school series in 2022.  

10.  How Not to Drown (Chvrches & Robert Smith) - Usually when a band has a guest vocalist, they sound like themselves with guest vocals.  This could TOTALLY be a Cure song with Chvrches as a guest performer!

11.  Purely Educational (Elder Island) - Let's keep the 80s vibes going with this minimalist Europop offering.  They've clearly spent some time listening to Yaz and Alison Moyet.  

12.  Heavy (Peach PRC) - Australian artist serves up a nice pop ballad.

13.  Silk Chiffon (MUNA with Phoebe Bridgers) - Dreamy soft-rock about ladies lovin' ladies!

14.  If You Got a Problem (Joy Oladokun) - Another proud queer artist who deserves much recognition.

15.  True Love (Hovvdy) - Austin, Texas duo, pronounced "howdy", adds some Western flair and harmonies to the usual rock vibe.  

16.  Bad Luck (BoyWithUke) - Mysterious TikTok artist has never shown his face but has racked up millions of views.  Can't wait to hear more from him!  

17.  Chapstick (COIN) - Sexy, nasty funk rock from Nashville band.  Probably not Covid-safe but fun anyway! 

18.  No Bad Days (Bastille) - I really expected Bastille to be a one-hit wonder for some reason.  Happily I was proven wrong! 

19.  Baby Grand (Anna B. Savage) - Listening to this is a completely immersive experience, so I put it at the end of the playlist.  I saw her name on several Best of 2021 Lists and have been fascinated ever since.  Her vibrato is off-putting (to me) at first, but the raw emotion is captivating.  She reminds me of Antony and the Johnsons/Anohni.  Enjoy!

So that's our first list of the New Year.  Hope everyone survived the holidays and has a great 2022!

Brant's June 2022 Playlist

Inflation really took a bite out of the special effects in
 "Jurassic World 3", didn't it?

The early bird gets the...cyclist?  I guess because I was home sick all weekend (not Covid, thank goodness), I was able to complete June's playlist a little early!  June is Pride Month, so in hopes that I will NOT be sick and that I will get to do some fun stuff during the next 30 days - I leaned into the party vibes:  lots of dance, R&B, and synth pop.  Hope you enjoy.  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Daydreaming (Harry Styles) - This glorious mix of Styles' charisma and a slammin' Brothers Johnson sample kicks us off!  It seems destined to be one of the "Songs of the Summer" for 2022.  

2.  Down (Hot Chip) - Eclectic, Grammy-nominated alt-dance artists serve up more peppy beats.

3.  Don't Forget My Love (Diplo and Miguel) - Two West Coast greats team up to create some night club magic!  

4.  Slow Song (the Knocks feat. Dragonette) - This was giving me Fleetwood Mac vibes in all the right ways!  

5.  Heartbursts (Lucius) - Dare I say...luscious (and Lucius!)  female vocals over tasty Indie pop?  Yes, please!

6.  You Make Me Mad (Aquilo) - Slick alt-rock from English duo.

7.  Ominira (Angelique Kidjo) - Beninese legend delivers some tropical vibes perfect for the upcoming season. 

8.  At the Hotel (Eunice Collins) - I heard this on an episode of "Atlanta" and had to have it.  A rare and nearly lost R&B recording from 1974.  Haven't we ALL felt a little "motel" at the "hotel" at some time or another?

9.  Quicksand (Hatchie) - Dreamy pop from Australian singer.

10.  Broken (Alfie Templeman) - We had Alfie on last month's playlist, and one song was not enough!  

11.  One Second (Pink Skies) - Easygoing psychedelic rock from Oakland, CA artist

12.  Against All Odds (Jenevieve) - Unexpected but welcome R&B cover of an 80s anthem.  

13.  Skyline (Khalid) - Sunny dance tune from one of my favorite contemporary soul singers. 

14.  girl ur so pretty (Ambar Lucid) - Young Indie singer dabbles in some Sapphic sensuality. 

15.  Meteorite (Anna of the North & Gus Dapperton) - Peppy pop from Norwegian artist

16.  Passion (Roosevelt feat. Nile Rodgers) - This combo was destined to happen!  Roosevelt is clearly influenced by 70s and 80s dance and disco music, and Nile Rodgers is well, Nile Rodgers!  I can't believe it took this long for them to collaborate!

17.  About Damn Time /Purple Disco Machine Extended Remix/ (Lizzo) - Did someone say "disco"???  This had BETTER be on EVERY Pride Playlist moving forward! 

18.  Hurts But It Goes Away (The Head and The Heart) - Latest from the Seattle Indie folk-rockers

19.  Turn Up the Sunshine (Diana Ross & Tame Impala) - Minions make strange bedfellows!  I never in a million years would've put Diana Ross in the recording studio with Tame Impala, but they sound pretty great on this tune from the "Minions:  Rise of Gru" soundtrack!

20.  Strut Your Funky Stuff  /Original 12" Version/ (Frantique) - It wouldn't be Pride without some disco, and I recently discovered this band on a Disco Discharge compilation!  Strut your funky stuff, y'all!

So that's June's playlist!  Hope everyone has a safe and HEALTHY month - and I'll see you in July! 

Brant's May 2026 Playlist

I like to call this one "Doctor on a Dinosaur". 

May is here, and we've got a new playlist just in time for the weekend!  In anticipation of Pride next month, we've got Lady Gaga (with Doechii!) AND Madonna (with Sabrina Carpenter!).  We've also got new stuff from returning faves, and waterfowl in the singular AND plural!  Hope you enjoy.  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Having You Around (yardsale) - So apparently there are several bands with this name or very similar.  This particular one is a trio of guys.  Anyway, it had an easygoing summer vibe that felt appropriate to kick things off!  

2.  Drunk Dialing (Holly Humberstone) - Another track off Holly's new album!  

3.  Madalena (Goose) - Some of my fraternity brothers turned me on to this band!  Very much a Jackson Browne vibe here that I'm digging.  It's also the first of our singular/plural waterfowl! 

4.  Kentucky Too Long (Charley Crockett) - The latest from frequent Brantworld listee continues his old-school country immersion!  

5.  Let Me Take You Out Tonight (Marc Broussard) - I just caught Marc this week in concert and he was fantastic.  He describes his music as Bayou Soul, which seems pretty accurate.  I'm getting Leon Russell, BB King, and even a dash of Brian Setzer!  Catch him if he comes to your town!

6.  Tiny Raisin (Suki Waterhouse) - English singer-songwriter has a new album coming out, and I can't wait!  Energetic and youthful pop rock to get you on your feet!

7.  Sunshine State (Pixey) - Another frequent listee who never disappoints!  

8.  Runway (Lady Gaga & Doechii) - This is from the new Devil Wears Prada sequel.  I'm a tad apprehensive about the movie, but happily endorse this dance floor strutter!  

9.  Sophie (Haute & Freddy) - My love of this new band continues unabated!  

10.  Save My Love (Kygo feat. Khalid and Gryffin) - Peppy collaboration to get your summer celebrations going! 

11.  Bring Your Love (Madonna & Sabrina Carpenter) - Power Pairing from two gay icons!  Will it give Madge the comeback she's striving for?  TBD...  

12.  Love Ain't Sh*t (Jai'Len Josey) - Bold and blunt R&B from Atlanta artist.

13.  Madwoman (Laufey) - Come for the groovy music, stay for the Hudson Williams video! 

14.  Cobra (Geese) - The second of our goose/geese offerings!  These guys (completely unrelated to Goose) feature singer Cameron Winter and his unique vocal stylings.  Their music veers from quirky to just bizarre, but I did like this one.    

15.  Virginia Slim /from the Garage/ (Laufey) - Acoustic version of the single from her debut album.  

16.  A Little Bit of Your Love (Doris Duke) - This was on a disco box set I recently bought.  I'd never heard this 1975 single, but love the classic soul influences on display here.  

17.  Carol (the Eagles) - Also from 1975, this is from the Deluxe Edition of the "One of These Nights" album.  The Eagles cover Chuck Berry, and do a great job with it!

18.  Door (Conan Gray) - Speaking of Deluxe Editions, Conan just released Wishbone Deluxe.  I can't get enough of this bonus track, written while he was touring last year.  He's also another great artist to catch if he comes to your town!

19.  Sunlight to My Soul (Angelique Kidjo with Soweto Gospel Choir) - Sunny, exotic and happy vibes to close us out for May!  

So that's this month's playlist!  Hope everyone has a great month and I'll see you in June! 

Brant's October 2025 Playlist

E'er'body in dis crypt gettin' tipsy!

It's the most wonderful time of the year!!!  I still haven't decided on a Halloween costume, but I do have this month's playlist ready to go.  We've got some new stuff, some not-so-new stuff, and lots of Halloween or at least Halloween-adjacent goodies for your seasonal parties!  Enjoy!  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  She Got the Moon (Berry Juice feat. Deirdre) - No word on if Berry Juice is related to Beetlejuice, but I dug the spooky, nighttime vibes of this song and figured it was a nice way to start us off! 

2.  Software (Hotel Apache) - Is New Jack Swing making a comeback???  [See also - Sabrina Carpenter's "House Tour"]  I'd be fine with that!  

3.  In Plain Sight (Khalid) - Frequent Brantworld listee is back with some danceable pop.

4.  Little By Little (Nicholas Cangiano) - Canadian singer/songwriter serves up some slinky soul!

5.  Skin of My Teeth (the Strumbellas) - More glorious music from our friends up North!  We've had the Strumbellas on two previous playlists, and I always love their retro 60's garage band stylings!  

6.  1st World Blues (Bright Eyes) - Two things I love (Conor Oberst & ska) come together in one glorious package!  The pointed lyrics are especially relevant these days.  

7.  That Old Black Magic (Keely Smith & Louis Prima) - A mid-century classic that's perfect for Halloween cocktails!  Can't believe I haven't put this on previous playlists! 

8.  Let's Dream in the Moonlight (Laufey) - One of my fave new artists covers Billie Holiday?!?  Yes, please!

9.  Vampire Bat (Glass Animals) - Groovy Indie rock with a Halloween slant!

10.  Chambermaid (Suzanne Vega) - Some songwriters just live within my DNA.  Suzanne Vega is one of them.  Since her debut album in 1985, I have adored this woman.  What a treat to have her drop a new album!  This tribute to Bob Marley was a standout for me.  

11.  Ain't As Pretty a Blue (Fleeland) - More comforting acoustic folk.  I couldn't find out much about this band, but hopefully we'll be hearing more from them.

12.  The Cut That Always Bleeds /Live/ (Conan Gray) - I saw Conan last week!  This live track absolutely captures the vibe - EVERYONE was singing along.  This kid has some serious vocal range, too.  Catch him if he comes to your town!

13.  My Only Angel (Aerosmith & YUNGBLUD) - Aerosmith is NOT afraid to team up with some young 'uns, and the results are always fantabulous!  First Run DMC in the 1980s - now YUNGBLUD.  Great musical synergy by two great artists.    

14.  Space Between Us (Franc Moody) - I'm getting ELO vibes from this UK band in all the best ways.  

15.  The Bellboy /One Last Crush/ (Suki Waterhouse) - Atmospheric rock ballad from UK artist and frequent Brantworld listee.  Back in the day we would've lit our lighters and swayed to the music as she sang this on stage!

16.  Na$ty (Kirby) - Funky R&B with a message!  "Memphis-born, Mississippi-bred" singer/songwriter has penned tunes for everyone from Ariana Grande to Kanye West!  

17.  Ramblin' Jones (Whiskey Myers) - Texas band keeps the Southern funk vibe going!

18.  All Around Cowboy (Charley Crockett) - We had him on last month's playlist, and I'm still enjoying Charley's latest album!  Here's another fave pick.  

19.  Unholy /Disclosure Remix/ (Sam Smith & Kim Petras) - This got overplayed in the clubs when it was released, but it makes a lovely addition to any Halloween party playlist! 

20.  After Dark (Pattie Brooks) - Far be it for me to neglect to add a disco tune to any party playlist!  It's not exactly a Halloween song, but the themes are definitely Halloween-adjacent.  And with a driving beat such as this, do we really care???  

So that's October's playlist!  Hope everyone has a spook-tacular Halloween and I'll see you in November! 

Brant's February 2025 Playlist

Beta Testing devices to help me keep my sanity for the next 4 years... 

Welp, we're only a few weeks into the new administration and the news is chock full of catastrophes - philosophical, Constitutional, and actual.  The groundhog predicted 6 more weeks of winter, which seems like the least of our worries.  I'm a day late, but I did manage to pull together another list of songs.  Last month skewed towards folk and Indie Rock.  This month I found myself gravitating more towards Pop and Dance selections, with a lot of returning favorite artists - perhaps in hopes of improving my mood.  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  The Way She Moves (Mia Wray) - Australian pop star kicks us off with a powerfully sung dance floor filler!  

2.  Crying in the Car Wash (ARXX) - I have a good friend who uses car washes as therapy.  I thought it was just her, but now this New Wave ditty by a UK duo has me wondering if it's a "thing"! 

3.  See You in the Afterlife (Foster the People) - Some foot-stompin' funk from American Indie band. 

4.  Slut for Excel (Charlie Houston) - I don't know much about this young singer/songwriter, but this tune had a Talking Heads/Tom Tom Club energy that immediately drew me in.  

5.  MIA (Khalid feat. Chlöe) - Frequent Brantworld listee duets with one half of Chlöe x Halle for some R&B excellence.  

6.  Small Change (Don West) - Every now & again someone brings back the Motown sound.  Here's the latest - I can dig it.  

7.  Done with You (Omar Apollo) - Grammy nomimee serves up some Latin-flavored soul.  

8.  Time (Olivia Dean) - English singer adds a surprising rock-edge to this neo-soul offering. 

9.  Under the Sun (Maggie Rose) - Maryland Americana artist is currently up for a Grammy Award for her latest album, which includes this dreamy ballad. 

10.  Stolen Love (Josiah & the Bonnevilles) - They've been on my last two playlists, so clearly I've gone down the rabbit hole!  But I'm still enjoying these roots rockers.  

11.  My Fun (Suki Waterhouse) - Another returning fave!  This song has a frisky blues tinge to it that I could easily see Mick Jagger singing.  

12.  Arm's Length (Sam Fender) - His new album comes out later this month.  So far I've enjoyed all of the singles released.  

13.  Cursed Romantics (Maude LaTour) - I feel like this tune could've been inspired by Taylor Swift's "New Romantics" - but who knows?  Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery!  

14.  Something Beautiful (YUNG & Dagny) - Not to be confused with Yung Kook (from BTS), YUNG is a Swedish duo who have teamed up with Norwegian pop star Dagny for this delicious ditty! 

15.  This Side of the Island (Hamilton Leithauser) - American singer/songwriter and former lead singer of The Walkmen goes solo! 

16.  Crocodile Tears (Lauren Mayberry) - I'm also continuing to enjoy the confident pop debut of former Chvrches lead singer Lauren Mayberry!  Here's another selection from her excellent album.  

17.  Fainted Love (Conan Gray) - 80s style New Wave from this talented American artist. 

18.  Uptight (Home Counties) - Energetic, percussion heavy Indie Dance-Rock from Bristol band. 

19.  Music Is Better (Rüfüs Du Sol) - Sydney, Australia serves as home base for this alt-dance/electronic band. Perfect for speeding through the waves on your favorite watercraft as the wind blows through your hair.  

20.  Remember (Miami Horror & Tim Ayre) - I knew I'd had them on a previous playlist, but I didn't expect it to be 10 years ago!  Anyway, this Melbourne band is back with more disco/dance funk and fellow-Australian vocalist Tim Ayre pitching in!  

So that's February's playlist.  Hope everyone has a good month, and we'll see you in March.  

Brant's August 2023 Playlist

When you're trying to navigate the Holocene Extinction
but also want to participate in pop culture...

Phew!  August is here and the world just had its hottest July on record.  Scientists have designated this the Holocene Extinction, as human activity causes the Earth to grow warmer and kill off life on our planet.  Funny how all the climate change deniers aren't picking up on this (or maybe they are and they're just too hot to apologize).  Either way, I'm chugging along and have put together another playlist to enjoy!  It's a little bit of everything, with two welcome comebacks from 1980s artists!  Enjoy!  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Every Chance I Get (Dan Auerbach) - Black Keys guitarist/vocalist starts us off with some glorious glam rock! I absolutely love the one-two punch of the Dusty Springfield/Norman Greenbaum samples!!!

2.  A Good Thing (Claud) - Tyler and Zach recommended this Indie/Alt artist, and I love their youthful energy!  

3.  Stranger in a Strange Land (Margo Price) - Leon Russell has been a fave of mine for a while, so I'm SUPER EXCITED for this upcoming tribute album.  Margo Price does a splendid cover of one of Leon's signature songs.  

4.  Silver Platter (Khalid) - I had to have something from the Barbie movie.  I still haven't seen it, but this bedroom jam stood out for me on the soundtrack.  

5.  Paralyzed (Roosevelt) - I've loved everything so far from the new Roosevelt album!  This is the latest.

6.  Time /Kinky Roland Remix/ (Culture Club) - Our first 1980s comeback.  Normally, I would steer an artist away from tinkering with one of their biggest hits - but this remake/remix of CC's 1982 hit might just change my mind.  Something about Boy George's weathered vocals really adds to the melancholy vibe here.  Well done! 

7.  Here We Go Again (Muylike) - Sunny Indie pop from Dutch artist.

8.  It Must Change (Anohni & the Johnsons) - Anohni is back, with some contemplative blue-eyed soul perfectly suited for her gorgeous vocals.

9.  Grim Generation (Portugal. The Man) - This singalong melody is too fun to be grim!  Life is complex.

10.  Cupid /Twin Version/ (Fifty Fifty) - Oh, how I adore some K-pop!  This tune from up-and-coming girl group just went viral, so hopefully we'll be hearing more from them in the future!

11.  Cosmos (Zinadelphia) - Slinky R&B that brings Macy Gray to mind. 

12.  In Your Love (Tyler Childers) - Frequent Brantworld listee is back with some endearing country love.  The video is fantabulous, and a nice alternative to some of the other more (shall we say) hateful rhetoric we're seeing in the country music world currently.  

13.  Digging Deeper Now (Alison Goldfrapp) - I love it when someone I haven't heard from in a while shoots me a message with a music recommendation!  My friend Josh from the West Coast did exactly that recently.  This is another tune from Alison Goldfrapp's awesome solo album.  Thanks, Josh!  

14.  When I'm With You (Nimmo & St. Panther) - Maybe I'm just missing it, but it seems like we don't get balls-to-the-wall dance ditties like this anymore!  Eric recommended this group to me and I can't get enough.  

15.  What I Want (Joe Hertler & the Rainbow Seekers) - Funk-rock from Michigan band that vagueley reminds me of Foster the People.  It definitely keeps the party going! 

16.  I Get High (iskwē feat. Nina Hagen) - Our 2nd 1980s comeback.  I loved Nina back in the day, with "Universal Radio" still being on frequent rotation today!  What a treat to hear her in this new dancehall/reggae jam from this Canadian artist.  

17.  Design (Tender) - This is from 2016 but I recently heard it on an episode of "Never Have I Ever" and loved it.  

18.  Don't Let Me Down (Gus Dapperton & BENEE) - Easygoing synth-pop from American singer/songwriter.  

19.  Prism (Jenny O.) - The latest from West Coast singer/songwriter.  

20.  Meet the Master (Greta Van Fleet) - Good lord this boy can sing!  Greta Van Fleet continues to put out music that pays tribute to classic rock but updates the sound. 

BONUS TRACK:  I Want Your Hands on Me - 12" mix (Sinead O'Connor feat. MC Lyte) - What a drag to lose Sinead last month.  I was #obsessed with her back in the day and profoundly felt her loss when I heard the news.  This version of one of her first hits was only available on the 12" vinyl, and I haven't found it anywhere to purchase/stream today.  But you can listen to it HERE.  It was one of the first times I remember a white artist collaborating with a rapper.  Sinead was so ahead of her time.  RIP.  

Brant's July 2019 Playlist

TFW people seem more interested in Instagramming the road trip than listening to your latest playlist!

I'm a few days behind on this month's playlist - mainly because June kicked my arse.  The a/c went out along with a few other issues - so browsing music had to take a back seat.  Anyway, I've managed to keep things afloat for at least a little while longer, so here's a soothing mix of cool tunes and interesting covers to enjoy in your climate-controlled living space.  To listen on Spotify, click HERE.

1.  Human Beings (the Wind and the Wave) - One of my fave bands is back, so it seemed only natural to have them get us going.  Plaintive vocals over a New Wavey beat that reminds me of Aimee Mann's Til Tuesday days. 

2.  Sisyphus (Andrew Bird) - Another selection (see April's playlist) from Andrew Bird's latest!  This one is giving me classic John Lennon vibes. 

3.  Head Over Heels (Japanese Breakfast) - Cover song #1.  Michelle Zauner sings Tears for Fears! 

4.  Far Away (Tom Rush) - The man credited with introducing Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Jackson Browne to the world reminds us that he's a pretty awesome songwriter in his own right!  Glad to see he's still around and still making great music. 

5.  Juke on Jelly (Cory Wong) - Minneapolis-based artist recorded this easy-going funk number with members of Prince's old band, New Power Generation! 

6.  Stayin' Alive (Lizzo) - Cover song #2.  Lizzo does disco with a fun remake of the Bee Gee's anthem.

7.  Baby You're a Trip (Prince) - Speaking of Prince, his estate has released an album of demos for songs he gave to other artists.  I think I'm still partial to Jill Jones' version (the horn section she has really makes the song pop), but it was fun to hear Prince's take on this underrated tune. 

8.  Talk (Khalid) - Eric turned me on to this, just this morning!  Yummy collaboration with the guys from Disclosure! 

9.  Landslide (Antony aka Anohni) - Cover song #3.  This is from 2012, but it turned up in the recent Netflix reboot of Tales of the City and I immediately recognized the voice!  Gorgeous rendition of Stevie Nicks' ballad. 

10.  Late September (Mandolin Orange) - My friend Page had posted about this band, so I had to check out their latest, and I was not disappointed.    Americana folk duo from Chapel Hill, NC.

11.  Broken Bones (Wingtip) - Up and coming electronic artist I stumbled upon and enjoyed!  Drowsy vocals and a choir lift your spirits before the beat drops and things really get hoppin'!

12.  religion /you can lay your hands on me/ (Shura) - I've been wondering when Shura would drop a new album.  If it's as good as this early single, I will be playing it all summer.

13.  Love 4 Love /Joey Negro Extended Remix/ (Change) - Some groovy disco for your next pool party!

14.  Super Cool (Beck feat. Robyn and the Lonely Island) - Yes, this is from the new Lego movie, but what fun to hear Beck and Robyn together!!!

15.  Loner (Queen Zee) - I do love a fun punk band, and these Liverpool rockers fit the bill perfectly!

16.  Dissolve /acoustic version/ (Absofacto) - Dreamy acoustic ballad by Michigan-based artist. 

17.  Love Again (Daniel Caesar with Brandy) - 2019 Grammy winner teams up with another Grammy-winner and 90s pop star for this jazzy new slow-jam! 

18.  Higher Love (Kygo feat. Whitney Houston) - Cover song #4.  Kygo takes a rare Steve Winwood cover from the 1990s and repackages it as a delicious contemporary dance-pop ditty! 

So that's July's playlist.  Hope everyone has a safe and happy Independence Day and I'll see you next month!