The L4LM Monthly Mix is a serial playlist curated with care by the Live For Live Music staff, a small group of dedicated music lovers with unique and varied tastes.
Each month, we bring you a new mix of tracks—from the old to the new, the beloved to the obscure, the silly to the sentimental. There’s usually no rhyme or reason to the L4LM Monthly Mix, but since we’re wrapping up an eventful year, we wanted to look back at the new releases that moved us most in 2021 with our December playlist. Next month, we’ll be feeling something different, and we hope you’ll subscribe and continue to listen along with us as that journey unfolds.
This article serves as your listening guide for the L4LM Monthly Mix—your liner notes, your peek inside our brains. Hear a song you like as you listen through? Scroll down (or “cmnd + f” search) and find out “what’s good” with the selection—why that music moved us this month. We hope we can help you discover something that moves you, too.
Dive into our “Best of 2021” edition of the L4LM Monthly Mix below and subscribe on Spotify to make sure you don’t miss any new L4LM Monthly Mixes.
You can also scroll down to the bottom of the page to revisit past months’ mixes. Happy listening, and happy new year!
Watchhouse – “New Star”
What’s Good: Watchhouse (formerly known as Mandolin Orange) confronting its own evolution, growing artistically alongside its fans. –Michael Broerman
Billy Strings – “This Old World”
What’s Good: One of my favorite songs from one of my favorite albums of 2021. Renewal was among my most-played albums of the year and this song is a big reason why. –Kel Kawas
Oliver Wood – “Roots”
What’s Good: Details like the clever turn of phrase at the core of this tune are a big reason why Oliver Wood’s solo album, Always Smilin‘, had such an impact on me this year. I interviewed him about it here. –Andrew O’Brien
Todd Snider – “Battle Hymn of the Album”
What’s Good: The best Todd Snider is the Todd Snider that sounds nothing like the Todd Snider you thought you knew. –Michael Broerman
Courtney Barnett – “Rae Street”
What’s Good: A goddamn folk Queen. –Maddy Murphy
Neal Francis – “Alameda Apartments”
What’s Good: From a dream Neal once had to the opening track from his fantastic 2021 LP, In Plain Sight… –Andrew O’Brien
Dumpstaphunk – “Where Do We Go From Here”
What’s Good: A friendly reminder that the new Dumpstaphunk album is still fire. –Andrew O’Brien
Silk Sonic – “Skate”
What’s Good: I know we overdid it with four Silk Sonic songs on the November Monthly Mix. We were excited. Still are. It’s not every day an instant classic comes out. But I also can’t in good conscience not add a tune from my favorite album of the year on our best of 2021 mix. So here we are. You smell better than a barbecue. –Andrew O’Brien
The Nth Power – “Tribe”
What’s Good: The Nth Power is good for your soul. –Andrew O’Brien
Khruangbin, Leon Bridges – “B-Side”
What’s Good: One of my favorite collabs of 2020 is coming back for seconds in 2022. What’s not to love about Khruangbin and Leon Bridges? –Kel Kawas
Jon Batiste – “FREEDOM”
What’s Good: This man deserves all eleven of his 2022 Grammy nods. WE ARE is a bright flash of joy in the shadows of a hard couple years. –Andrew O’Brien
Nigel Hall – “People in Search of a Life”
What’s Good: Resident soul man taps Butcher Brown to hold him down and digs deep as the well will run on this captivating rumination. –B.Getz
Little Simz, Obongjayar – “Point & Kill”
What’s Good: Everything about Little Simz makes this world a better place. She is an activist, friend, and therapist all in one song. –Maddy Murphy
Karina Rykman –”No Occasion”
What’s Good: It must be Tuesday. –Andrew O’Brien
Olivia Rodrigo – “good 4 u”
What’s Good: Every single song on this teenager’s debut album hit the Billboard Hot 100’s top 40 this year. Yeah. We were all living in Olivia’s world in 2021. –Andrew O’Brien
TAUK – “Moon Dub”
What’s Good: Take a tour of the solar system with these instrumental storytellers. –Andrew O’Brien
Polo & Pan – “Ani Kuni”
What’s Good: French House, Disco, Electro… say no more. –Maddy Murphy
Jackson Whalan ft. KRS-One – “From the Woods (Remix)”
What’s Good: Underground emcee/producer extracts the urban element, takes the game into the forest, and gets blessed up by The Teacha himself. –B.Getz
Ye (Kanye West) ft. André 3000 – “Life of the Party”
What’s Good: Yeezy probably won’t win that “Album of the Year” Grammy he’s up for, but if we’re talking about the unofficial award for “Rap Verse of the Year,” it’s hard to think of any as moving as André 3000’s turn on Donda (Deluxe) track”Life of the Party”. As Dre 3K speaks to his own late mother through a plea to Kanye’s mom, he spins a vivid lyrical rendering of life and mortality. If that wasn’t enough, the song ends with audio of that viral clip of the late DMX riding an amusement park ride with his young daughter. I still catch something new every time I queue this up. –Andrew O’Brien
Movie Club – “Ghost in the Machine”
What’s Good: A phantasmagorical elixir of psychedelic-electro-sludge from this stylish Venice Beach, CA duo. –B. Getz
Leon III – “Fly Migrator”
What’s Good: One of my best finds of the year was Leon III. –Michael Broerman
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard – “Interior People”
What’s Good: A light year for KG&LW, putting out just two studio albums in 2021. Waiting for a flood in 2022. –Michael Broerman
Crumb – “Trophy”
What’s Good: I recently found this band (thanks, Maddy) and they absolutely crush. This is sure to be one of my most-played tracks on my 2022 Spotify Wrapped. –Kel Kawas
Beach House – “Once Twice Melody”
What’s Good: Beach House melodies are like a bubble bath for the ears. –Maddy Murphy
Dinosaur Jr. – “Take It Back”
What’s Good: If 2021 had a spirit animal, J Mascis would definitely be in the running. –Michael Broerman
Parquet Courts – “Homo Sapien”
What’s Good: Parquet Courts have held my attention since I saw them at Bonnaroo in 2019. –Michael Broerman
Ty Segall – “Pictures”
What’s Good: Let your hair fall down into your eyes as you thrash around to this one. –Michael Broerman
Tank and the Bangas ft. Big Freedia – “BIG”
What’s Good: The future of New Orleans dancefloors is in good hands with Tank and Freedia. Also, this music video gets out of hand in the best possible way. –Andrew O’Brien
Madlib – “The Call”
What’s Good: It’s always hard to pick one great loop off a great beat tape, but this one definitely rises to the top of a beautiful crop of instrumentals from Madlib. –Andrew O’Brien
Eggy – “Second Step (Live)”
What’s Good: Eggy debuted this track on May 8th at The Warehouse at FTC in Fairfield, CT. This version of “Second Step” comes from the band’s packed set at Peach Music Festival back in July, one of Eggy’s most memorable performances of the year. –Kel Kawas
Goose – “Moby”
What’s Good: Find some zen with the low-end. –Kel Kawas
NF – “CLOUDS”
What’s Good: If NF isn’t on your radar then your radar’s broke. –Kel Kawas
Death Kings – “March of the Kings”
What’s Good: Open up the circle pit! –Kel Kawas
Consider the Source – “A Clash of Faces”
What’s Good: On Hybrid Vol. 1: Such As A Mule, Consider the Source seamlessly transitions between elements, making the group’s already layered sound even thicker. –Michael Broerman
Yves Tumor – “Crushed Velvet”
What’s Good: Yves is a whole vibe. –Maddy Murphy
Hiatus Kaiyote – “Chivalry Is Not Dead”
What’s Good: Both dark, smooth and limitless, Hiatus Kaiyote is genre-fluid and I am so about it. –Maddy Murphy
Terrace Martin ft. YG, Malaya – “Evil Eyes”
What’s Good: DRONES, contemporary jazz/hip-hop Renaissance man Terrace Martin’s sprawling 2021 LP, is best consumed all at once—but this is a great place to jump in on the fly. –Andrew O’Brien
Doja Cat ft. SZA – “Kiss Me More”
What’s Good: I picked this song because it was ubiquitous this year, but it’s not even the best song on Doja Cat’s 2021 album. I implore you to throw on Planet Her in full the next time you’re working out or getting down. –Andrew O’Brien
John Mayer – “Last Train Home”
What’s Good: Sob Rock forever. –Andrew O’Brien
Pigeons Playing Ping Pong – “Indiglo”
What’s Good: Among Pigeons’ oldest tunes, “Indiglo” finally got the studio treatment it long deserved this year. “We’re on the road again!” –Kel Kawas
Judith Hill – “Baby, I’m Hollywood!”
What’s Good: Judith is a powerhouse and this tune, the title track from her latest LP, is catchy as can be. –Andrew O’Brien
Dee Gees (Foo Fighters) – “You Should Be Dancing” (Bee Gees)
What’s Good: Foo Fighters going disco was one of the silliest, most enjoyable surprises of 2021. –Andrew O’Brien
Maggie Rose – “Help Myself”
What’s Good: It’s been a thrill watching Maggie’s rise over the last couple years. With gems like “Help Myself” all over her 2021 album, Have a Seat, it’s not hard to hear why. –Andrew O’Brien
Charley Crockett – “Lies and Regret”
What’s Good: From Charley’s new middle finger to the Nashville machine, Music City USA. –Michael Broerman
James Blake – “Say What You Will”
What’s Good: James Blake weaves profound messages with the best kind of minimal electronic sounds to create the perfect blend. “I watched through windows, as my young self died.” A song that encompasses so much growth! –Maddy Murphy
Gone Gone Beyond – “Little Moon”
What’s Good: An emotionally-resonant slab of intoxicating future-folk that thumps, snuggles, and channels the divine. –B.Getz
Isaiah Rashad, Smino – “Claymore”
What’s Good: Smino and Isaiah Rashad together? Yup. Let’s continue this energy in 2022, please. –Maddy Murphy
Fred again.. – “Kahan (Last Year)”
What’s Good: Fred again.. was the best thing to happen to me in 2021. –Maddy Murphy
Darkside – “Liberty Bell”
What’s Good: It’s easy to overlook the reunion of Dave Harrington and Nicolás Jaar’s ambient project Darkside among the landslide of reunions over the past year. –Michael Broerman
Noname – “Rainforest”
What’s Good: All feeling, flow, and unfazed attitude. Noname is the truth. –Andrew O’Brien
Adele – “I Drink Wine”
What’s Good: Every time you think “There’s no way Adele has another classic in her,” she quickly disabuses you of that notion. See: “I Drink Wine” from her 2021 album, 30. –Andrew O’Brien
Eric Krasno – “Silence”
What’s Good: Keep an eye on Eric Krasno in 2022. The vibes on his forthcoming album are just right (think Soulquarians) and The Assembly is sounding fantastic onstage.
Rising Appalachia – “Silver”
What’s Good: The siren sisters strip things down to the bone for a gripping, sobering, sensual meditation on one’s own reflection. –B.Getz
L4LM Monthly Mix – November 2021
November 2021 – LINER NOTES
Silk Sonic – “Fly As Me”
What’s Good: The sexiest track off the hottest new album from two of modern pop/hip-hop’s greatest. –Sara Shah
Lettuce, Flamingosis – “Remember The Children” (Flamingosis Remix)
What’s Good: Lettuce announcing Flamingosis as support for their upcoming Miami NYE show reminded me of this killer remix. Flamingosis is definitely one of my favorite producers and Lettuce is one of my favorite bands. –Kunj Shah
Hanni El Khatib – “ALIVE”
What’s Good: Whatever the context, “I can’t believe I survived / It’s all around and upside down / I’m alive!” are some relatable AF lyrics in the year 2021, set to the backdrop of an easy-breezy, synth-heavy pop track. –Sara Shah
Vintage Pistol – “LEVELS”
What’s Good: Levels, Jerry. Levels. –Michael Broerman
Flamingosis – “Daymaker”
What’s Good: The title track off of Flamingosis’s recently released album is a straight banger. –Sara Shah
Gilligan Moss – “GM from GM :)”
What’s Good: Chicago bred, Brooklyn-based electronic duo Gilligan Moss recorded a debut album over the course of three years in a handful of different locations, combining the duo’s love of seventies records and dance music—both modern and early. –Maddy Murphy
Opiuo – “Dusty Bugs”
What’s Good: One of my favorite shows this Red Rocks season was Opiuo with a live 36-piece choir. This man is a master of his craft. –Kunj Shah
Gorillaz – “19-2000”
What’s Good: Gorillaz’s self-titled, debut album turned 20 years old this year! –Kel Kawas
Bonobo – “Rosewood”
What’s Good: Single out from his new album, Fragments, coming out in January. –Maddy Murphy
Khruangbin – “(Time) You And I”
What’s Good: Another one of my favorite shows at Red Rocks this year was Kbin. They did this hip-hop medley that blew my mind. –Kunj Shah
Los Bitchos – “Las Panteras”
What’s Good: Off the long-awaited forthcoming Los Bitchos debut LP. Think Khruangbin, but with a punchier rhythm section. –Michael Broerman
Still Woozy – “Rocky”
What’s Good: Stilly Woozy is legit, do not sleep on him. The whole album is amazing. –Maddy Murphy
Silk Sonic – “Smokin’ Out The Window”
What’s Good: How could she do this to me? –Andrew O’Brien
Scary Pockets (ft. Lawrence) – “deja vu” (Olivia Rodrigo)
What’s Good: This Scary Pockets project is quickly becoming one of my favorite things. Different singers, over creative funk grooves, covering good music? What more could I want. –Kunj Shah
Tank and the Bangas, PJ Morton – “TSA”
What’s Good: Ever since I saw Tank and the Bangas’s Tiny Desk performance, I was sold. New Orleans meets hip hop, meets storytelling, meets funk, etc. Also, I’m writing this from the airport, so the song TSA felt appropriate. –Kunj Shah
Playing For Change – “Iko Iko”
What’s Good: This iteration of the New Orleans classic is a stacked compilation that features one of the last known recordings from Dr. John, along with Bill Kreutzmann, Mickey Hart, Ivan Neville, George Porter Jr., and more. – Sara Shah
Andy Frasco & The U.N. – “Dancin’ Around My Grave”
What’s Good: When I heard my friend Andy was hosting his own funeral in Denver to create a music video for this song, I thought he was crazy—especially after seeing the very beautifully decorated coffin, and a venue marquee highlighting the words “R.I.P. Andy Frasco.” But after seeing the finished product and hearing the accounts from people of the faux funeral that took place, I have to give it to him, it was pretty brilliant. Psychotic, but brilliant. –Kunj Shah
Fugees – “How Many Mics”
What’s Good: How many mics do you rip on the daily? –Andrew O’Brien
The Nth Power ft. Maceo Parker, Ivan Neville, Nick Daniels – “Spirits”
What’s Good: The new Nth album, Reverence, is fantastic top to bottom. This soulful posse jam is perfect for a late-night drive. –Andrew O’Brien
Neal Francis ft. Derek Trucks – “Can’t Stop The Rain”
What’s Good: My boy. –Maddy Murphy
Black Pumas, Hypnotic Brass Ensemble – “Colors”
What’s Good: A revamp of what has become a recent classic. Horns make everything better. –Sara Shah
Atmosphere (ft. Aesop Rock & MF DOOM) – “Barcade”
What’s Good: Just remember ALL CAPS when you spell the man name. –Kel Kawas
Terrace Martin (ft. Kendrick Lamar) – “Drones”
What’s Good: Terrace Martin is a genius. All of the most interesting roads in contemporary jazz/hip-hop go through him. Now, where’s the Kendrick album? –Andrew O’Brien
Ween – “Stacey”
What’s Good: Oh yeah, I got really into Ween while you all were away. –Michael Broerman
Yazmin Lacey – “Morning Sunrise”
What’s Good: This one is a new discovery for me, and I was captivated by Lacey’s smooth, soulful tone. Like butta. –Sara Shah
Ross from Friends – “The Daisy”
What’s Good: Off the British electronic record producer and DJ’s latest album, Tread. –Maddy Murphy
Tycho, Ben Gibbard – “Only Love”
What’s Good: Ben Gibbard (Death Cab for Cutie)’s enchanting vocals laced over Tycho’s signature downtempo beats are what dreams are made of. –Sara Shah
Eric Krasno – “Alone Together”
What’s Good: Another song that hit home when being stuck with Covid. Can’t wait to see Krasno with Oteil and CO at Denver Comes Alive. –Kunj Shah
Kikagaku Moyo – “Dripping Sun”
What’s Good: Kikagaku Moyo is already due for another lengthy U.S. tour. –Kel Kawas
Billy Strings – “Heartbeat of America”
What’s Good: You gotta be pretty damn tuff to win the title of best song on Billy’s new album, Renewal. –Michael Broerman
Jimmy Herring, Circles Around The Sun – “Bird With No Name” (Neal Casal)
What’s Good: Jimmy Herring’s guitar playing is some of my favorite out there, mixed with the sonic capabilities of Circles Around the Sun, makes me so glad that this album exists as a tribute to Neal. –Kunj Shah
moe. – “Four”
What’s Good: Get well soon, Satan. – Michael Broerman
Amber Mark, Franc Moody – “Lose My Cool (Franc Moody Remix)”
What’s Good: Digging this blend of Mark’s powerful pipes and Moody’s poppy disco vibe. –Sara Shah
Silk Sonic – “After Last Night”
What’s Good: You know we couldn’t just have one Silk Sonic track on this playlist. –Kel Kawas
Neal Francis – “Prometheus”
What’s Good: Neal Francis’ own rise, fall, and redemption is a character arc straight out of Greek mythology. –Michael Broerman
Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats – “What If I”
What’s Good: Distance made the heart grow fonder as Nathaniel Rateliff reunited with The Night Sweats for The Future. –Michael Broerman
Silk Sonic – “777”
What’s Good: This song oozes funk and this album is the goddamn truth. –Kunj Shah
Dopapod – “Think”
What’s Good: Dopapod’s latest single, which premiered via Live For Live Music in October, encourages you to think for yourself, in a world filled with mixed messages and confusion. –Sara Shah
The Werks – “Liqwid (Live from Legend Valley 2021)”
What’s Good: Welcome back, Chuckie Love. –Michael Broerman
Marco Benevento – “At The End Or The Beginning”
What’s Good: Marco Benevento’s first new music in two years paints the devastating events of the past year-and-a-half in his trademark, industrial pop-jam hue. –Michael Broerman
girl in red – “Seratonin”
What’s Good: This twenty-two-year-old pop songwriter from Norway tugs at the heartstrings and it’s soooo damn good. Off her latest album, if i could make it go quiet. –Maddy Murphy
Polo & Pan – “Magic”
What’s Good: Polo & Pan just exude upbeat, positive energy with every beat, and this remix of a classic really hits the spot. –Sara Shah
Nightmares On Wax – “Imagineering”
What’s Good: From Nightmares On Wax’s new album, Shout Out! To Freedom… This album has been three years in the making. George Evelyn, better known by his stage names, Nightmares On Wax and DJ E.A.S.E., has said that the project was finalized over lockdown and that it is a very personal project to him. –Maddy Murphy
Maribou State, Holly Walker – “Spooky”
What’s Good: A laid-back, funky version of a classic tune. –Sara Shah
Scary Pockets (ft. Judith Hill) – “You Shook Me All Night Long”
What’s Good: Judith Hill is a force to be reckoned with. A major collaborator with Prince and Michael Jackson, if she’s good enough for them, she’s good enough for me. Can’t wait to see her at Denver Comes Alive. –Kunj Shah
Jack White – “Taking Me Back (Gently)”
What’s Good: It’s hard not to include Jack White on my selections, but even harder when he releases fresh music and announces two new albums. “Taking Me Back (Gently)“, the softer, folky version of “Taking Me Back” will arrive as the final track on White’s July 22nd album, Entering Heaven Alive. –Kel Kawas
Maggie Rose (ft. Marcus King) – “What Makes You Tick”
What’s Good: Love me some Maggie Rose, pair her up with the soon-to-be guitar legend Marcus King, and you have yourself a powerful musical combo. –Kunj Shah
Oliver Wood – “Molasses”
What’s Good: Oliver Wood’s solo album was one of my favorite things to come out all year. This song is an emotional rollercoaster in the best possible way. –Andrew O’Brien
Courtney Barnett – “Before You Gotta Go”
What’s Good: Never go to bed angry. –Michael Broerman
Hether – “Morning Bells”
What’s Good: Hether’s Sticky Thumb is a lo-fi triptastic EP to get lost in. –Maddy Murphy
Jenny Lewis – “Puppy and a Truck”
What’s Good: All you need. –Michael Broerman
Aaron Lee Tasjan – “Traveling After Dark” (Neal Casal)
What’s Good: Just dream another dream, and may it take you far. –Michael Broerman
Trey Anastasio – “Lonely Trip”
What’s Good: My new favorite Trey Anastasio ballad hit me differently last week when I had Covid. The loneliness described in the song could be felt by my quarantined self. –Kunj Shah
Grateful Dead – “Ripple”
What’s Good: If he knew the way, Jonah Hill would take you home. –Kunj Shah
Terrace Martin – “Don’t Let Go”
What’s Good: It’s not even really a full “song,” but it captures a feeling better than most songs I know. –Andrew O’Brien
View November 2021 L4LM Monthly Mix & Liner Notes
L4LM Monthly Mix – June 2021
June 2021 – LINER NOTES
Andy Frasco – “Love Hard”
What’s good: Andy played me this track he had just recorded with Dominic Lalli, Jen Hartswick and Maggie Rose in his car after a sushi dinner one night and it was an INSTANT banger. Catchy and fun with a nice message, what can be bad? –Sara Shah
The Suffers – “Take Me to the Good Times”
What’s good: This song has popped into my head at least once a week since I first heard it during Georgia Comes Alive. Feels like a perfect anthem for a summer of stepping out after a year at home. – Andrew O’Brien
Little Simz Ft. Cleo Sol – “Woman”
What’s good: Over the past few years, British rapper Little Simz has only been getting better and better. –Shelby Bretschger
David Shaw – “Something to This Feeling”
What’s good: David Shaw’s new solo record ranges from harder rock to softer melodies, and this one is perfectly equal parts sweet and spicy. Good vibes. –Sara Shah
Scapegoat Wax – “Freeway”
What’s good: Wasn’t on the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater soundtrack but really could have been. –Shelby Bretschger
CARRTOONS Ft. Julia Zivic – “Taurus”
What’s good: Awesome collab between one of my favorite rising NY-area producers, CARRTOONS, and the psych-soul singer-songwriter, Julia Zivic. –Shelby Bretschger
Karina Rykman – “No Occassion”
What’s good: This fun, Chromeo-esque tune hears the Queen of the Jam Scene coming into the forefront and owning her diva side. –Sara Shah
Amy Winehouse – “You Sent Me Flying / Cherry”
What’s good: Excellent Saturday morning vibes with a satisfying build. –Shelby Bretschger
Masego ft. Don Toliver – “Mystery Lady”
What’s good: Straight vibes. –Sara Shah
Miriya Takeuchi – “Plastic Love”
What’s good: The city pop never dies. –Shelby Bretschger
Bruno Mars – “That’s What I Like”
What’s good: Bruno Mars slaps. Don’t @ me. –Shelby Bretschger
Pocket Protection – “Paul P. Shure”
What’s good: George Gekas‘s new project recruits prominent musicians like Alvin Ford Jr. to create the perfect NOLA vibe. –Sara Shah
KAMAUU ft. Adeline– “MANGO”
What’s good: Straight vibes Pt. 2. –Sara Shah
Tedeschi Trucks Band ft. Trey Anastasio– “Why Does Love Got To Be So Sad”
What’s good: Two of the greatest guitarist living right now trading licks… ’nuff said. The whole Layla set from LOCKN’ 2019 is coming soon as a live album: Layla Revisited. –Kunj Shah
Roy Ayers – “Love Will Bring Us Back Together”
What’s good: Five minutes and fifty-five seconds of that FUNK. –Kunj Shah
Sharon Jones, E.L. Fields Gospel Wonders – “Heaven Bound”
What’s good: Daptone Queen Sharon Jones backed by a gospel choir. My lord, enough said. –Sara Shah
Phish – “Free (Live In Brooklyn)”
What’s good: How I feel with a year+ of lockdown behind us and Phish tickets in my pocket for the summer. –Andrew O’Brien
Amy Winehouse – “You Know I’m No Good (Live at the BBC)”
What’s good: Been thinking about Amy since I heard yasiin bey, née Mos Def, talk about his friendship with the troubled artist on his new The Midnight Miracle podcast with Dave Chappelle and Talib Kweli. She was both a generational talent and a deeply tortured soul. –Andrew O’Brien
The New Basement Tapes – “When I Get My Hands On You”
What’s good: Seeing Greensky Bluegrass cover this tune at Westville Music Bowl last month sent me back down the New Basement Tapes rabbit hole. For those not familiar, this supergroup comprised of Jim James, Elvis Costello, Marcus Mumford (Mumford & Sons), Taylor Goldsmith (Dawes), and Rhiannon Giddens wrote a whole album’s worth of music to accompany a cache of newly unearthed Bob Dylan lyrics in 2014. It’s worth a listen for any number of reasons. –Andrew O’Brien
Meshell Ndegeocello – “Atomic Dog 2017″ (George Clinton)
What’s good: A moody, updated reading of an early-’80s George Clinton favorite… –Andrew O’Brien
Parliament – “Wizard of Finance”
What’s good: …and some old school Parliament to bring it back around to the OGs. –Andrew O’Brien
Watermelon Funk – “Watermelon Funk”
What’s good: You may know DeShawn “D’Vibes” Alexander from his stints with the Eric Krasno Band and the Marcus King Band, but his Watermelon Funk project may be his funkiest work yet. Dig it. –Andrew O’Brien
Oliver Wood (King Johnson) – “Fine Line”
What’s good: From Oliver’s debut solo album. An old tune from his King Johnson days reworked as something new and refreshing. The chorus has been stuck in my head for weeks. You can check out my interview with Oliver about the process of making the album here. –Andrew O’Brien
Sky Society ft. Flamingosis – “Laid Back Coolin”
What’s good: Straight top-down convertible, beachside cruisin’ feels. –Sara Shah
Khruangbin – “Right” (David Bowie)
What’s good: This David Bowie cover is just “Right”. –Michael Broerman
Phish – “Everything’s Right”
What’s good: Everything is finally right. Hello, concerts! –Kunj Shah
Billy Joel – “Big Shot”
What’s good: Billy Joel wrote this song about Trey Anastasio in 1978, igniting the feud between Phish and The Piano Man that would last over four decades (and counting). It seemed odd to write a diss about about a 14-year-old kid in Jersey who had never even been to Elaine’s, but hey, that’s showbiz. –Michael Broerman
Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real – “Leave ’em Behind”
What’s good: People like Lukas Nelson, who write socially relevant songs with the time-tested twang of country, are bringing respect back to a genre that has become a dirty word. –Michael Broerman
The Black Keys – “Poor Boy a Long Way From Home” (Robert Lee Burnside)
What’s good: On their new album, Delta Kream, The Black Keys give credit to the Mississippi Hill Blues artists who served as the band’s early inspiration, while simultaneously melding their own style with nearly a century of blues traditions. –Michael Broerman
Fashøn – “That Thing About You”
What’s good: When he’s not touring the country with Goose, guitarist/keyboardist/vocalist Peter Anspach has been working on new tunes with his side project, Fashøn, featuring former Great Blue bandmate Ethan Michael.
Magic Beans – “Footprints in the Rain”
What’s good: Magic Beans pulling off some bluegrass twang on their latest album with some help from Torrin Daniels, on loan from Kitchen Dwellers. –Michael Broerman
Celeste – “Strange”
What’s good: Isn’t it strange how a song from a “sad” montage in Ted Lasso can bring you so much joy? –Andrew O’Brien
Wings – “Jet”
What’s good: Been on a big Wings kick lately. Climb on the back and we’ll go for a ride in the sky. –Andrew O’Brien
Sugar Ray – “Someday”
What’s good: Summer nostalgia to a T. –Shelby Bretschger
AFTM – “That’s What I Came For”
What’s good: Saw these local Athens, GA young bois open up for Karina Rykman in Asheville. I’m sure it’s not the last I’ll be seeing of their acronym-loving asses. –Michael Broerman
BareFuzz – “Ride It Out”
What’s good: Keep an eye out for these local Columbus boys as they continue to climb festival lineups this summer. –Michael Broerman
Steely Dan – “Caves Of Altamira”
What’s good: One of the grooviest songs by one of the grooviest bands in history. –Shelby Bretschger
The Disco Biscuits – “Home Again” (Live, 9/15/01)
What’s good: Just came off a three-night run at Red Rocks with The Disco Biscuits. When this band is on, it’s on. –Kunj Shah
View June 2021 L4LM Monthly Mix & Liner Notes
L4LM Monthly Mix – April 2021
April 2021 – LINER NOTES
Anderson .Paak – “JEWELZ”
What’s good: Anderson .Paak. Fat, funky bass. What more do you need? –Shelby Bretschger
The Avalanches – “Because I’m Me”
What’s good: A grainy, soulful sampling clinic courtesy of the Australian electronic crew The Avalanches with a strong verse by Camp Lo‘s Sonny Cheeba. –Andrew O’Brien
Stevie Wonder ft. Rapsody, Busta Rhymes, Cordae, Chika – “Can’t Put It In The Hands Of Fate”
What’s good: Powerful, poignant, and timely message about the state of affairs in our country, from none other than Mr. Stevie Wonder himself. –Sara Shah
Goose – “So Ready”
What’s good: The goose has BEEN loose, baby. A great single in anticipation of their second studio release, Shenanigans Nite Club. Check out the animated music video, too. –Shelby Bretschger
EMEFE – “Greed”
What’s good: EMEFE’s feel-good funk track comes complete with Afrobeat influences and a laid-back message. –Sara Shah
Scary Goldings (Scary Pockets x Larry Goldings) – “Equal Parts Timing & Romance”
What’s good: Every time Spotify feeds me something new and funky, it’s Scary Pockets. Scary. Pockets. This whole collaboration album with Larry Goldings is fantastic. –Andrew O’Brien
Dr. John – “Iko Iko”
What’s good: Dr. John is one of the greatest to ever do it and I’ll always throw “Iko Iko” on when I’m missing New Orleans. –Kunj Shah
Lake Street Dive – “Hypotheticals”
What’s good: LSD is back in action with a new album led with this incredibly catchy single. –Shelby Bretschger
The Meters – “Hey Pocky Way”
What’s good: When I think of New Orleans Jazz Fest, I think of The Meters. I also love that Marvel’s The Falcon and the Winter Soldier dropped this track in a NOLA scene in its 5th episode. I hope The Meters were able to cash in on that Disney money. –Kunj Shah
Amy Helm – “Breathing”
What’s good: Amy Helm is much more than the daughter of The Band‘s late drummer Levon Helm—she’s a badass singer/songwriter in her own right. –Andrew O’Brien
Slim Wednesday – “Reptile Show”
What’s good: Never heard of this JoJo Hermann side project until the day before our picks for this month were due. Thank you, Spotify Discover Weekly. –Michael Broerman
Little Feat – “Skin It Back”
What’s good: Southern rock meets the yacht. i.e. Little Feat slaps. –Shelby Bretschger
David Shaw – “Got Me Feeling Good”
What’s good: The latest single from The Revivalists’ David Shaw’s new solo venture is an instantly catchy, upbeat soul-pop anthem that, as the title might imply, has us feeling good. –Sara Shah
Low Cut Connie – “Help Me”
What’s good: Grade-A driving music. –Jimmy
The Revivalists – “Shoot You Down”
What’s good: The world is on fire and there are more and more mass shootings everyday. –Kunj Shah
Flamingosis – “Cosmic Feeling”
What’s good: This Avalanches-inspired track has a great groove, and a just-as-great music video. –Shelby Bretschger
Chromeo, Tropkillaz – “Stay In Bed (And Do Nothing)”
What’s good: Chromeo has come correct with topical, tongue-in-cheek funk jams throughout the pandemic, and their latest tune is no exception. The title says it all. –Sara Shah
Todd Terje – “Delorean Dynamite”
What’s good: Good heavens, you can practically smell the cocaine of the 1980s Miami Beach club scene when listening to this track from Todd Terje’s 2014 album It’s Album Time. –Tom Shackleford
Yurie Kokubu – “Taxi Man”
What’s good: Been going through a huge Japanese City Pop phase and I don’t see this ending any time soon. It’s a perfect blend of disco, funk, and pop just in time for driving in the sunshine. –Shelby Bretschger
Rudy Willingham – “Pool Party”
What’s good: This super fun track samples an adorable viral video to turn it into a high-energy funk banger. –Sara Shah
Elohim, GRiZ – “Bring Me Back”
What’s good: Elohim and GRiZ is a combination I can always get behind. This one is a banger. –Sara Shah
Ghostland Observatory – “Sometimes”
What’s good: Ghostland Observatory returns with a vibed-out, synth\-heavy, melodic new wave track that feels more like Tame Impala than old school Ghostland. –Sara Shah
TEYOMRI – “Patience”
What’s good: This smooth, melodic house track with a sexy, flute-infused beat will transport you to a beach party in Tulum. –Sara Shah
Dinosaur Jr. – “Take It Back”
What’s good: Continuing my delayed descent into ’90s alt-rock by overcompensating and staying up-to-date on all new Dinosaur Jr. releases. –Michael Broerman
Nigel Hall – “Wake Me”
What’s good: I haven’t been this excited for a new album in a long time. Nigel’s new solo record, Spiritual, comes out next month. –Andrew O’Brien
Judith Hill – “You Got the Right Thang”
What’s good: Looking for funky pump-up music? Judith Hill’s got the right thang right here. –Andrew O’Brien
Tune-Yards – “under your lip”
What’s good: From the duo’s new album Sketchy, this “under your lip” almost feels like several distinct musical ideas boiled down into one catchy track. –Jimmy
Garage A Trois – “Shooting Breaks”
What’s good: Celebrating the return of Garage A Trois. –Michael Broerman
Yola – “Diamond Studded Shoes”
What’s good: I’m relatively new to Yola, but if “Diamond Studded Shoes” is any indication, her new Dan Auerbach-produced album Stand For Myself is going to be in heavy rotation for me when it comes out this summer. –Andrew O’Brien
Hope Tala – “Lovestained”
What’s good: Part bossa nova. Part hip hop. All awesome sunny morning vibes. –Shelby Bretschger
Noname – “Rainforest”
What’s good: The flamenco guitar groove and Noname’s easy, conversational flow truly transport you to the rainforest on this new tune. –Andrew O’Brien
Doja Cat ft. SZA – “Kiss Me More”
What’s good: A strong contender for “Song of the Summer”. –Tom Shackleford
Todd Snider – “The Get Together”
What’s good: The Reverend Todd Snider preaching from his pulpit of the First Agnostic Church of Hope and Wonder. –Michael Broerman
Robert Earl Keen – “The Road Goes On Forever”
What’s good: The party never ends. –Michael Broerman
David Allan Coe – “Longhaired Redneck”
What’s good: Just moved to Asheville. This sums it up well. –Michael Broerman
Bruce Springsteen – “My City Of Ruins”
What’s good: Bruce Springsteen playing this song this song at Jazz Fest after Katrina brought me to to my knees. The entire crowd was in tears as they collectively sang along to a song of destruction and hope. –Kunj Shah
Maggie Rose – “What Are We Fighting For”
What’s good: Maggie Rose just crushed two nights at Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom, busting out soulful tunes like this one. –Shelby Bretschger
Death Cab For Cutie – “Waterfalls” (TLC)
What’s good: Just one of my all time favorite bands covering one of the most classic pop-R&B jams of the 90s. Here for it. –Sara Shah
José González – “Visions”
What’s good: Our first taste of the Swedish singer-songwriter’s first new album in six years. –Tom Shackleford
Moby ft. Jim James – “Porcelain”
What’s good: An emotive, complex piece from a pair of unique talents. –Tom Shackleford
Glorietta – “I Know” (Nathaniel Rateliff)
What’s good: Glorietta was the result of an experiment by Matthew Logan Vasquez: gather a bunch of artists at a house in Glorietta, New Mexico and see what happens. With an assist from Nathaniel Rateliff, this track has gotten under my skin in the best possible way. –Andrew O’Brien
Dumpstaphunk ft. Marcus King – “I Know” (Nathaniel Rateliff)
What’s good: This updated take on the Buddy Miles protest anthem kicks off Dumpstaphunk’s powerful new album ‘Where Do We Go From Here’. –Andrew O’Brien
Souls of Mischief – “Step To My Girl”
What’s good: Souls of Mischief always make me feel nostalgic. Perfect mix of bravado and sensitivity. –Andrew O’Brien
Jackson Whalan ft. KRS-One – “From The Woods (Remix)”
What’s good: The legend KRS-One hopped on the new remix of Jackson Whalan’s blues-hop banger “From The Woods”, and it goes hard. –Andrew O’Brien
Keith Jarrett – “The Rich (And The Poor)”
What’s good: Just some legendary players impressing each other. Simple, delicate, and so damn good. Andrew O’Brien
Sleep – “The Clarity”
What’s good: Though I stopped smoking pot a while back, I’ve only gotten futher into stoner metal. –Michael Broerman
Franki Valli – “Grease” (Bee Gees)
What’s good: It’s the word. –Tom Shackleford
Prince – “Sometimes It Snows in April”
What’s good: Every time we pass the anniversary of Prince’s death, I give a ceremonial spin to this sparse but heart-wrenching song, recorded 31 years to the day before his passing. –Andrew O’Brien
View March 2021 L4LM Monthly Mix & Liner Notes
L4LM Monthly Mix – March 2021 – Women’s History Month
MARCH 2021 – LINER NOTES
Nina Simone – “Feeling Good”
What’s good: Welcoming a new dawn, and a new day… things are starting to look up in the world of live music! –Kunj Shah
Ms. Lauryn Hill – “Doo Wop (That Thing)”
What’s good: A classic track from a historic record. –Andrew O’Brien
Mavis Staples – “Slippery People – Live” (Talking Heads)
What’s good: The crossover cover I never knew I needed. –Michael Broerman
Janelle Monáe – “Come Alive (War of the Roses)”
What’s good: Is there a triple-threat right now cooler than Janelle Monáe? Pretty wild that I can say I saw her perform on the main stage at Lollapalooza and star in an award-winning film about NASA scientists in the same year. –Sara Shah
Sharon Jones – “Midnight Rider” (Allman Brothers Band)
What’s good: R.I.P. to the QUEEN of soul. –Sara Shah
Khruangbin – “Evan Finds the Third Room”
What’s good: Hello? Is Laura Leezy a queen? YES. –Andrew O’Brien
H.E.R. – “I Can’t Breathe”
What’s good: There’s a reason this track just won “Song of the Year” at the Grammys. If you don’t feel a pit in your stomach when H.E.R. sings this chorus, you weren’t paying attention last summer. –Andrew O’Brien
Tedeschi Trucks Band – “Midnight In Harlem”
What’s good: Mama Susan. Is there anything else to say? –Shelby Bretschger
Drugdealer – “The End Of Comedy”
What’s good: Weyes Blood lets her inner Carole King shine on this minimalist, yet sonically fulfilling track. –Shelby Bretschger
Brittany Howard – “Stay High (Spotify Singles)”
What’s good: There is no one who commands a crowd quite like this absolute powerhouse. This version of the song gives me chills. –Sara Shah
Gorillaz ft. Little Dragon – “Empire Ants”
What’s good: My most played song of the 2010s decade (according to Spotify). –Shelby Bretschger
Billie Holiday – “Strange Fruit”
What’s good: I watched The United States vs. Billie Holiday recently and hadn’t fully understood the importance of this song before then. She was nothing short of a revolutionary, and it should be required viewing for all Americans. –Sara Shah
Judith Hill – “Americana”
What’s good: This up-and-coming badass burst onto the scene recently and stole the show at Georgia Comes Alive with a performance featuring her adorable mom, who plays in her touring band along with her dad. Her new album, Baby, I’m Hollywood!, is a powerful statement on the state of affairs in our country. –Sara Shah
Jennifer Hartswick – “Stay” (Rihanna)
What’s good: If you only know Jen as a member of Trey Anastasio Band, you’re missing out on one of the best vocal jazz albums of the last decade. All of Nexus is worth many listens, but I’m partial to this gorgeous reimagining of the Rihanna smash hit. –Andrew O’Brien
Fruition – “Santa Fe”
What’s good: Mimi Naja’s singing on this song from 2016’s Labor of Love made me an instant fan of Fruition. She also just put out her debut solo single (which you can check out here). –Andrew O’Brien
Fleetwood Mac – “Dreams”
What’s good: This song got an unlikely boost last year from cranberry juice skateboard guy, but it was essential way before that. –Kunj Shah
Karina Rykman – “Dirty South”
What’s good: As Karina Rykman slowly trickles out solo singles (two a year for the past two years) the anticipation grows unbearable for a debut LP. –Michael Broerman
Billie Eilish – “you should see me in a crown”
What’s good: This b*tch is batsh*t crazy and I f*cking love it. –Sara Shah
Yaeji – “Raingurl”
What’s good: With roots in Korea, Atlanta, and Queens, NY, Yaeji synthesizes house and hip-hop into gorgeous textures and dance-heavy beats. –Shelby Bretschger
Remi Wolf – “Photo ID”
What’s good: Eclectic, indie pop-funk delivered with colorful, Gen Z excellence—Remi Wolf is for sure a rising force to be reckoned with. –Shelby Bretschger
Sia – “Hey Boy”
What’s good: Sia is just her own unique brand of a human/alien, and I respect that. Also, her music is a ton of fun. –Sara Shah
Beyoncé, Blue Ivy, WizKid, SAINt JHN – “Brown Skin Girl”
What’s good: The catchiest song of 2020. And yes, I know it came out in 2019. Don’t @ me. –Andrew O’Brien
Megan Thee Stallion ft. DaBaby – “Cash Sh*t”
What’s good: “Savage” may have made Megan Thee Stallion a household name (given the TikTok virality), but “Cash Sh*t” was the first song that really hooked me a few years back. Much love and congrats for her recent Grammy wins! –Shelby Bretschger
Selena – “Always Mine”
What’s good: The late Queen of Tejano music is one of the most celebrated Mexican-American entertainers of the last century, and this track screams “80s dance pop.” –Shelby Bretschger
ROSALÍA – “MALAMENTE”
What’s good: No one else in music right now sounds like Rosalía. She blends flamenco, R&B, and latin pop for a brand propelling her to well-deserved stardom. –Shelby Bretschger
St. Vincent – “Pay Your Way In Pain”
What’s good: Getting some serious Prince vibes from this new St. Vincent. –Andrew O’Brien
Dua Lipa ft. Madonna, Missy Elliott – “Levitating”
What’s good: I mean… Missy Elliott, Madonna and Dua Lipa on the same track? Talk about a trio of GODESSES. This disco funk track is a vibe. –Sara Shah
Hiatus Kaiyote – “Get Sun”
What’s good: Hiatus Kaiyote are back, and in doing so, prove once again that Australia has the best bands on the planet right now. –Tom Shackleford
Southern Avenue – “We’re Gonna Make It”
What’s good: Nope, that’s not an old soul record—it’s a track off Southern Avenue’s latest. I guess you can call it an “old souls” record. This band’s sound is timeless. –Andrew O’Brien
Heart – “Barracuda”
What’s good: Many thanks to the Wilsons for teaching a young Andrew about carnivorous fish… and rock n’ roll. –Andrew O’Brien
Imogen Heap – “Hide and Seek”
What’s good: I first heard this track in high school, and I’ve still never heard anyone manage to muster a sound quite like Imogen Heap’s trademark siren song. –Andrew O’Brien
Grace Potter – “Toothbrush And My Table”
What’s good: Grace turns on a bit of NOLA swagger on this one. Can’t beat it. –Kunj Shah
Etta James – “At Last”
What’s good: This song had been around for nearly two decades before Etta James recorded it in 1960. Now, I can’t imagine anyone else singing it. She owns it. That’s the power of Etta in a nutshell. –Andrew O’Brien
Brittany Howard – “You’ll Never Walk Alone” (Rogers and Hammerstein)
What’s good: Sometimes, you don’t need more than two minutes to make an impact. Damn! –Andrew O’Brien
Laure Mvula – “Church Girl”
What’s good: Laura Mvula first captured my ear’s attention on 2016’s The Dreaming Room. After five years away, she returns with the lively “Church Girl” which pays homage to 80s MTV-era production alongside her trademark vocal layers. –Tom Shackleford
The Highwomen – “Crowded Table”
What’s good: The Highwomen—the supergroup composed of Brandi Carlile, Amanda Shires, Maren Morris, and Natalie Hemby—took home a well-deserved Grammy for this timely single. –Michael Broerman
Amanda Shires – “Break Out The Champagne”
What’s good: Exactly what Amanda Shires was thinking when she took home a Grammy with The Highwomen for “Crowded Table”. –Michael Broerman
Dolly Parton – “Do I Ever Cross Your Mind?”
What’s good: Do I? –Michael Broerman
Brandi Carlile – “The Mother”
What’s good: Call your mother. –Michael Broerman
Lizzo – “Stayin’ Alive” (Bee Gees)
What’s good: Lizzo flipping the Bee Gees? Sounds like a strange choice—until you hear it. Then it makes perfect sense. –Kunj Shah
Haim – “Falling”
What’s good: The Haim sisters really know how to get your head bobbing. –Jimmy
Phoebe Bridgers – “I Know The End”
What’s good: “When I get back I’ll lay around / And I’ll get up and lay back down” about sums up the past 23 years for me. –Michael Broerman
View March 2021 L4LM Monthly Mix & Liner Notes
L4LM Monthly Mix – February 2021
FEB 2021 – LINER NOTES
The Motet ft. Nigel Hall – “And The Beat Goes On” (The Whispers)
What’s good: Nigel’s buttery vocals and The Motet’s poppy brand of funk makes this take on the ’70s classic an instant winner. –Sara Shah
Cory Wong ft. Cody Fry – “Coming Back Around”
What’s good: Cory Wong. So hot right now. (But for real, we’ve really been loving the Cory and The Wongnotes variety show. Check it out!) –Shelby Bretschger
Glass Animals – “Heat Waves”
What’s good: Glass Animals’ latest release, Dreamland, is a VIBE from start to finish, and this track is arguably my favorite. –Sara Shah
Return To Forever – “Medieval Overture”
What’s good: Chick Corea returned to forever this month. One of the greatest, most creative musicians of the last century. –Andrew O’Brien
Vic Mensa, Wyclef Jean, Chance The Rapper – “SHELTER”
What’s good: Wyclef Jean, Chance the Rapper, and Vic Mensa on one track? Say no more. –Sara Shah
Vulfpeck ft. Joey Dosk – “LAX”
What’s good: A clever love song reminiscent of Michael McDonald-era Doobie Brothers. –Shelby Bretschger
Thundercat – “Dragonball Durag”
What’s good: Consistent with Black History Month and Valentine’s Day, Thundercat shows off his loving (and silly) side atop a stank-face-inducing groove. –Shelby Bretschger
Black Pumas, Lucius – “Strangers”
What’s good: Black Pumas are one of my favorite newer acts, and this collab with Lucius displays a more folksy, breezy side of the band. –Sara Shah
Redbone – “Come and Get Your Love”
What’s good: I just think this is a badass song, even if I know it from a Marvel movie. –Kunj Shah
Minnie Riperton – “Baby, This Love I Have”
What’s good: February is both Black History Month and the month of Valentine’s Day. Minnie Riperton both radiates Black excellence and perfectly encapsulates how it feels to love someone while not being the best with words. –Shelby Bretschger
Charles Bradley, Menehan Street Band – “Cumberland Blues” (Grateful Dead)
What’s good: In which Charles Bradley turns the Workingman’s Dead classic into a soul celebration. –Andrew O’Brien
Tash Sultana ft. Jerome Farah – “Willow Tree”
What’s good: Terra Firma is finally here! Been waiting three long years for a new Tash LP since Flow State dropped. Still have to really dig into the full album as the artist intended—”take yourself to a quiet space, turn off the lights, light a candle and light some incense”—but I like what I’m hearing so far. –Andrew O’Brien
Dr. John – “Right Place, Wrong Time”
What’s good: I always seem to be in the right place at the wrong time. –Kunj Shah
Madlib – “The New Normal”
What’s good: Madlib came on my radar as a frequent MF DOOM collaborator, but his latest work makes him stand apart. Behind the scenes, Four Tet played a pivotal role in the project, spending years collecting and piecing together sound bites Madlib would send him and hand-crafting the masterpiece that would become Sound Ancestors. Read more about the fascinating process here. –Sara Shah
Michigander – “OK”
What’s good: “It’s okay to be alone sometimes” could be the new 2021 anthem. –Sara Shah
Polo & Pan – “Coeur d’artichaut”
What’s good: I can’t get enough of these guys, they might be making the best electronic world music out right now. It’s a vibe. –Kunj Shah
The Neville Brothers – “Yellow Moon”
What’s good: It’s Mardi Gras time and I’m thinking about New Orleans. –Kunj Shah
Foo Fighters – “Medicine at Midnight”
What’s good: Wait, is that Dave Grohl or David Bowie? –Andrew O’Brien
Gladys Knight & The Pips – “Midnight Train To Georgia”
What’s good: Georgia on my mind since Georgia Came Alive! –Kunj Shah
Maggie Rose – “Do It”
What’s good: Since she came on my radar in 2019, it seems like every new song from Maggie Rose ends up stuck in my head for weeks. She just did it again with “Do It”, the first offering from her forthcoming album, Have A Seat, recorded at the iconic FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, AL. –Andrew O’Brien
Cosmo Pyke – “A Piper For Janet”
What’s good: For his first release in nearly four years, English-bred Cosmo Pyke sighs a breath of fresh air into his signature blend of soul and surf rock. He doesn’t disappoint. –Shelby Bretschger
Erykah Badu (Prod. by J Dilla) – “Didn’t Cha Know”
What’s good: In honor of the late, great J Dilla, gone 15 years this month. Lots of casual heads know the name of the iconic producer, and maybe some of his beats, but most don’t know just how prolific this dude was making beats for other artists. For all things J Dilla, check out our recent feature, Yancey Taught Me: Examining the Life, Legacy, & Genius of J Dilla. –Andrew O’Brien
Allen Toussaint – “Night People”
What’s good: This song always gets me up and dancing. –Kunj Shah
Aaron Neville – “Hercules”
What’s good: One of the GOATs to come out of New Orleans. –Kunj Shah
Judith Hill – “Irreplaceable Love”
What’s good: One of many new discoveries from Georgia Comes Alive. Watch out for her new album, Baby, I’m Hollywood!, coming this spring. –Andrew O’Brien
Aqueous – “On The Edge (Live)”
What’s good: Aqueous never fails to deliver that ’90s skateboard-punk energy. –Michael Broerman
Melt – “Hours”
What’s good: Melt first caught our attention with the groovy, soul-pop sweetness of “Sour Candy”. Now, they’ve returned with bass-driven psychedelia and a mellow, pop flair on “Hours”, *melt*ing our hearts just in time for Valentine’s Day. –Shelby Bretschger
DANGERDOOM – “Space Hos”
What’s good: That mask hid a million different identities. Still haven’t fully processed MF DOOM’s passing. –Andrew O’Brien
Justin Townes Earle – “Can’t Hardly Wait”
What’s good: It’s a shame when an artist’s passing serves to introduce you to their tremendous body of work, but that’s what happened with Justin Townes Earle. –Michael Broerman
Lake Street Dive – “Nobody’s Stopping You Now”
What’s good: Lake Street Dive’s first new music in nearly two years comes in the form of an inspiring ode to originality and staying true to one’s self. –Michael Broerman
The War On Drugs – “Eyes to the Wind (Live)”
What’s good: “Eyes to the Wind”, one of the many stand-out songs from The War On Drugs’ 2014 studio masterpiece, Lost in the Dream, stretches out to nine minutes with this sublime live cut on their new concert album, LIVE DRUGS. –Tom Shackleford
John Coltrane, Duke Ellington – “In a Sentimental Mood”
What’s good: This classic recording featuring the incomparable John Coltrane on saxophone and Duke Ellington on piano should be mandatory for any wintertime playlist. Not much else needs to be said for this soothing and timeless jazz standard, so perhaps it’s best to let the music speak for itself. –Tom Shackleford
Holly Bowling – “Weather Report Suite”
What’s good: I wish Holly Bowling would transcribe entire Grateful Dead concerts. Would love to hear the grand piano rendition of “Drums” from the Pyramids with Hamza El Din. –Michael Broerman
Belle & Sebastian – “The Boy with the Arab Strap (Live)”
What’s good: Listeners are treated to a wonderful live version of the dance-friendly, fan-favorite tune from the Belle & Sebastian songbook here. This live cut of “The Boy with the Arab Strap” appears on Belle & Sebastian’s brand new live album, and treats fans to some loose mid-song commentary from singer Stuart Murdoch. –Tom Shackleford
Bay Uno – “Wait For Your Love”
What’s good: I recently rediscovered this charming ballad from indie singer-songwriter Bay Uno. The song’s quirky horn parts matched alongside a borderline drowsy tempo and enchanting melodies make for a romantic and feel-good listen at the end of a long winter’s day. –Tom Shackleford
Sturgill Simpson – “Hobo Cartoon”
What’s good: Off the latest volume of Cuttin’ Grass, Sturgill actually wrote this song with Merle Haggard shortly before his death in 2016 and has now finally released it. Aged like fine wine. –Michael Broerman
Chad Kroeger (ft. Josey Scott) – “Hero”
What’s good: The Cleveland Browns made it to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 1994—three years before I was born—with quarterback Baker Mayfield and head coach Kevin Stefanski emerging as the Hero(s) that can save us. –Michael Broerman
Miles Davis – “Shhh / Peaceful”
What’s good: One of the hardest things for me throughout the pandemic has been finding moments of inner peace. As such, I’ve been gravitating toward relaxing music. I hadn’t gotten into Miles Davis’ In A Silent Way until after Chick Corea died and I learned that the album features three legendary keyboard players—at the same time: Chick, Herbie Hancock, and Joe Zawinul (Weather Report). Now I can’t stop listening. Close your eyes. Breathe deep. You got this. –Andrew O’Brien
View February 2021 L4LM Monthly Mix & Liner Notes
