What I'm Listening To This Week
What Are Some of Your Favorite New Songs?
Here’s what’s been in heavy rotation for me and the kittens over the past few weeks. Ten new finds and an old favorite rediscovered. Whether it’s jazz, folk, ambient, or something out in the left field, I’m always chasing sounds that make me feel something. I’ll follow this list with a playlist from Spotify. Thank you for reading, and I hope you find some songs here that you'll love just as much as we do. 😺
William Tyler - Anima Hotel
Time Indefinite (Psychic Hotline)
Another remarkable album by guitarist William Tyler, and I love the layers and atmospheres heard throughout this ambient guitar track. Tyler is at the top of his game and has consistently produced great music, both solo and in collaboration with others, such as Lambchop and Wooden Wand.
Kassi Valazza - Small Things
From Newman Street (Fluff and Gravy Records)
Kassi Valazza has one of those voices that pulls you in, and some folks say it’s Joni-esque, and I can hear that. Her guitar work feels like the spirit of Anne Briggs and John Martyn in the best way. This 11-track album is one worth owning on vinyl, especially for your Sunday morning listen. Hoping she hits the road soon!
Florist - All The Same Light
Jellywish (Double Double Whammy)
Emily Sprague’s voice has this delicate, effortless beauty that just sneaks up on you. On the new Florist album, every track was written by Sprague. She weaves together soft-spoken vocals with layers of folk and a touch of ambience that feel like they’re meant to be heard in a quiet room or the middle of a forest. It’s a record that rewards close listening but also works as a companion for early mornings or late nights.
Richard Dawson - Boxing Day Sales
End of the Middle (Weird World)
Dawson writes great songs that are strange, smart, and unique. He’s a storyteller through and through, and this track showcases his unmistakable voice climbing into the high notes and weaving through the mix until it lands right where it needs to, delivering a gorgeous song complete with a clarinet solo. A proud Geordie playing some interesting British folk music.
Sultan Stevenson - Purpose
El Roi (Edition Records)
This new record from Sultan Stevenson is worth your time. He plays piano, backed by Jacob Gryn on bass and Joel Waters on drums, with special appearances from Josh Short on trumpet and flugelhorn, and Soweto Kinch on tenor sax. Stevenson is rooted in the growing London jazz scene, which consistently produces incredible talent, and you can hear influences like McCoy Tyner, Herbie Hancock, and Kenny Kirkland in his playing—but he’s also carving out his own sound.
Stewart Copeland - Galapagos Seal
Wild Concerto (Platoon)
You know him as the drummer of The Police, but Copeland has been creating music in many genres all along. His latest effort blends orchestral arrangements with authentic animal sounds and field recordings, all recorded by British naturalist Martyn Stewart. It’s an unexpected and fascinating mix that works. Give it a listen!
Mah Ze Tar - Kala
Metropolis (Muti Music)
Māh Ze Tār blends traditional Eastern instruments, such as the sitar, oud, and ney, with modern electronic beats, creating something that feels both timeless and fresh. It’s a powerful blend of cultural preservation and sound that resonates with genuine emotion. This track hooks you in early and has tremendous sonics.
Proc Fiskal - Imageimage
Canticle Hardposte (Shleekit Doss)
Unique electronic sounds from Edinburgh, Scotland that the artist defines as grime, hoodtrap, and hyperdub. I would describe this track as a brilliant, on the edge of experimental ambient piece full of layers that could be the soundtrack to your day.
Pasquale Grasso - Milestones
Fervency (Masterworks)
Grasso’s new album is smart and a delight to hear. Along with Julian Lage, he’s one of today’s most exciting jazz guitarists. Backed by longtime collaborators Ari Roland and Keith Balla, Grasso digs deep, performing some covers and originals like this track, Milestones. It’s jazz guitar played with heart, reverence, and a profound sense of swing. Even getting praise from legend Pat Metheny!
Pulp - Spike Island
More (Rough Trade)
This is the band's first studio album in 23 years, following We Love Life (2001), and is their first album without bassist Steve Mackey, who sadly passed away in 2023. I love this track, it's catchy, well-produced, and one of my picks for pop song of the summer. Jarvis Cocker remains one of the finest singers and songwriters in Britpop.
Archers of Loaf - Vocal Schrapnel
All The Nation’s Airports (Merge Records)
I love this song. It had been a while since I last heard it, and then, last week, it was playing inside a local novelty gift shop, and it brought back memories. I think Archers of Loaf were one of the best indie rock bands of the 90s. They were consistent, wrote great songs, and had hooks that everyone could enjoy. This is one of my favorites.
The Playlist
Thank you for reading. Until next time!
Great stuff 👏 Love William Tyler and MZT