Lately I’ve been gravitating toward music that slows things down and gives me space to breathe. Soulful vocals, warm production, and a touch of nostalgia seem to be the thread…songs that feel both grounding and transportive. This week’s picks capture that energy perfectly: Don West delivers a lush slow jam, Venna and Jorja Smith bring jazz-soaked introspection, and El Michels Affair with Norah Jones offer a cinematic moment of release. Three different shades of soul, all worth sitting with.
Give Me All Your Love - Don West
I’ve had a soft spot for soul music lately. It really just puts me in my feels and gives me a sense of calm. I think it’s mainly the nostalgic aspect it evokes but also from a working perspective it helps me lock in and focus. This latest song from Australian crooner, Don West, is a slow jam packed with layered vocal harmonies and sensual riffs that’s a must listen.
Myself (ft. Jorja Smith) - Venna
I feel like anything Jorja Smith touches is instant gold. Her voice is angelic. Lyrically, the song revolves around the tension between losing oneself in love and the necessity of reclaiming personal identity.
Released as a single leading up to Venna’s debut album MALIK. This track blends a sophisticated fusion of jazz, soul, and hip-hop, showcasing Venna’s signature sound that’s edgy yet rich, layered over a vibrant rhythm section, soothing strings, and glistening guitars.
Carry Me Away - El Michaels Affair & Norah Jones
El Michels Affair aka Leon Michaels, is a master of cinematic soul, who teams up with Norah Jones for this gem of a track. Jones’s voice floats effortlessly over Leon Michels’s warm, retro-tinged production which is part gospel, part 60s soul, part country twang. It’s a song about letting go and finding ease after heartbreak.
Quote of the Day
If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.
Video of the Day
Tame Impala released the second single from his upcoming album Deadbeat. It’s a slow groove that tackles the idea of feeling like a loser after a breakup. The music video / visualizer stars Djo and is a sharp contrast from the first video he released for the project. I think it beautifully captures the essence of the song with long, slow and wide shots. What do you think?
Photo of the Day
Kinda of a shitty photo but a cool one nonetheless. This is an image of The Police making their US debut at the iconic NYC venue, CBGB in 1978! CBGB was located on Bowery and housed so many iconic legends. Its where Rick Rubin got his start along with so many others.
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I’m not a homeowner yet but, I’m sure some of you are so this one is for you.