Nohelani Cypriano - Liuhe
Let’s kick it off with a track that’s surely more known as the other ones, but is also possibly in the top 10 of my all time favorite songs. The steady groove and killer bass line keep a solid and almost sensual base, while the keys and especially the vocal transport you in a nostalgic and beautiful dimension. The lyrics also contribute to immerse you in this world of nostalgia, with a story that catches you from the start, and surely many people can somewhat relate to. I made an edit of this one, my first edit ever, but it’s still unreleased because of copyright issues. I was quite worried that daring to try and making it would ruin the song for me, or afraid that I would butcher it perhaps, but it was actually very enjoyable and made me like it even more.
Calm - Donde Sal El Sol
Quite literally a gem this one, absolutely beautiful production in all aspects, incredible choices in sound source but also in mixing, lots going on but everything is well distributed and clear in the mix. The kicker in this one is a surprise (not anymore, sorry!) switch around, which catches you off guard and instantly makes you move your body. Very uplifting and beautiful track.
Os Tincoãs - Ajagunã
Heading into Brazilian territory, we have this almost forgotten group, rediscovered by a newer generation. I’m a big fan of Brazilian music, highly percussive and with incredible transcending harmonies. There’s something about the moment when the voices start harmonizing in this song that gives me the chills every time. I need to do some research and understand what’s happening there on a musical level, because I find it really special. It’s truly magical and it hits you right in the feels.
Fabiano Araujo - Negro
We’re still in Brazilian territory here, but this time we are immersed in a way more calm and immersive world. This incredible 10 minute meditation is something to relax to but also a truly beautiful performance by the musicians that needs to be cherished and appreciated. Way more modern in its approach to the instruments, it keeps what It’s at the roots of Brazilian music but expands it into a more abstract realm, that is nothing but pleasure to the attentive and educated ear. If you enjoy it, I highly recommend giving the whole album a listen.
Blaze, Palmer Brown - My Beat (Swag’s Spiritual Mix)
This list has been mostly more or less acoustic songs, which is what I mostly listen to when on spotify normally. But I’m throwing in a more dancefloor-ish one for good measure, because it also reflects the music that I make. I find this beat absolutely infectious, it’s broken but very uplifting and absolutely danceable. Also here I’m a fan of the lyrics, from my understanding it’s talking exactly about this discrepancy between the broken beat of the kick drum and the straight driving force of the percussion and bassline. The marimba, rhodes and synth work is beautiful on this one as well, just the right amount of everything.
Odyssey - Our Lives Are Shaped By What We Love
Odyssey are not exactly unknown, but rightfully so. Extremely soulful and contagious music that speaks right to the heart. This song in particular does not bypass the mind though, with the main lyric stating very clearly: Our lives are shaped by what we love (and what we do!) . It’s a powerful message that gets repeated in the song a bit like a mantra, and doesn’t fail to put me in a great mood. It’s especially touching when I’m on the way to the studio for example, and I’m reminded of how blessed I am to be able to work on music that I love so much. Of course, the message spreads much further, which is one of the beauty of art: everyone can interpret it in their own way, creating a message tailored for each individual.
