Does anyone else feel like this summer is just flying by? I always get sad around this time because I realize how much I love summer and how much I don’t ever want it to end. Anyways, today’s music selects are all smooth and groovy tunes for that night energy. Enjoy and have a good weekend!
Juicy Fruit - Christine Lewin
Originally written and recorded by Mtume in 1983 as sensual, synth-drenched R&B slow jam that went on to become a sampling goldmine. You probably best know this song from Biggie’s, Juicy but, Christine's take flips it into a silky lovers rock groove, somewhere between a smoky slow dance and a warm breeze off the coast of Jamaica.
Released on the ultra-rare Kufe Records imprint, this one became a quiet collector’s gem over the years.
If you’re into rare UK reggae, lovers rock, or just like hearing a familiar melody in a totally new light, this one is worth a spin. Good luck finding it on vinyl though… the original pressings go for serious money.
Until Dawn - CLUB INDGO
CLUB INDGO is a collective based out of New England, with multiple vocalists, producers, and visual artists all contributing to their vision. ‘Until Dawn’ is a slow-burner, built for the hours when the world gets quiet and you’re left alone with your thoughts. Lush synths, woozy percussion, and a vibe that looks like smoke burning off an incense wit the sun perfectly hitting it. Anyone feel me there? haha. The song sounds like if Solange, Sade, and Dijon linked up on Kaytranada beat..
On another note, that would be a crazy collab that we will probably never see. ☹
Running Back to You - The James Maclean
“Running Back to You” is a slow, seven-minute hypnotizer that unravels at its own pace and somehow makes longing feel like liberation.
The Juan MacLean is the solo project of John MacLean, a former punk guitarist who found his second life in the electronic underground. He’s one of the early architects of DFA Records, an iconic NYC label co-founded with James Murphy (LCD Soundsystem). DFA reshaped the 2000s by fusing punk energy with dance floor precision, championing artists who blurred the lines between indie, disco, and house.
The whole album, In a Dream (2014), is full of vintage synths, drum machines, and a feel good, chunky, disco groove. It’s worth a listen if you’re into that type of music.
Quote of the Day
The free soul is rare, but you know it when you see it - basically because you feel good, very good, when you are near or with them.
Video of the Day
Bad Bunny is an incredible artist on every level, but what I admire most is how he brings his music to life through stunning visuals. This video is a perfect example. I didn’t fully connect with the song at first, but after watching the visual, it completely clicked. He’s built such a rich visual world around his music that even if you don’t understand the lyrics, you still feel it. That’s powerful artistry.
Photo of the Day
Today, I’m sharing another image of mine that I shot in 2016 during Kanye’s, Life of Pablo Tour. This image was shot at Madison Square Garden on the floor of Travis Scott moshing with fans.
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