KDHX 88.1 FM
- I Wish I Was The Moon-Neko Case (Case's contemplative side is on display in her vocals here. I'd be curious to hear Hem or She & Him cover this.)
- General Thunder-Julian Lage (This uptempo guitar instrumental made an immediate impression upon me. There's a general consistency throughout Lage's "Modern Lore" album, released in February. Much of it fits under the smooth jazz banner, but if you're looking for a more experimental track, check out "Earth Science.")
- Talk To Me-Kandace Springs (Springs has a strong voice that's ideal for such middle-of-the-night laments. Also recommended: "Novocaine Heart.")
- The Question Is-The Winans (Smooth vocal harmonies with reassuring lyrics for people of faith. The throbbing instrumental undercurrent on the rerecorded version is an interesting choice that makes the lyrics no less effective.)
- Sun Goddess-Ramsey Lewis (This title track from a Ramsey Lewis album is an excellent seize-the-day anthem. Instrumentally, it hooks you from the first note, and Earth, Wind & Fire's recurring vocal punctuation should make anyone want to get out of bed and take on the world. This was one of my favorite songs to play on KNJZ.)
- Louis Moreau Gottschalk: Souvenir de Porto Rico (Ivan Davis, piano) (This somber, uptempo melody has stayed with me throughout the morning. I'm trying to remember the last piece I heard or played in the somewhat unusual key of E-flat minor.)
