Standout tracks heard today:
The Covers Channel
- I Want You Back-Lake Street Dive (The cool, jazzy bass line sets the tone for this slowed-down, inspired take on the Jackson 5 hit.)
Deep Tracks
- Wade In The Water-Ellen McIlwaine (Impressive ringing guitar and infectious percussion; it took me a few minutes to appreciate McIlwaine's singing off the beat in places, but the passion in the vocals makes me recommend this version. Also recommended: My two favorite versions of this tune by Ramsey Lewis and Eva Cassidy.)
Iceberg
- Help Me-Joni Mitchell (Some of the most honest, forthright lyrics from the perspective of someone who fears she's smitten. This hit also contains one of Mitchell's most appealing hooks. If you like the general feel of the tune, you'll probably also like "Free Man In Paris" and "In France They Kiss On Main Street.")
Luna
- Barandanga-Giovanni Hidalgo (This would make great underscoring for a suspenseful caper.)
Real Jazz
- Midnight Sun-Al Jarreau/Metropole Orchestra (Emotive traditional jazz singing with piano, strings and Miles-inspired trumpet.)
- How High The Moon-Oscar Peterson (A not surprisingly excellent rhythm section, with Peterson in command at the piano, carries off this jazz standard. Seek out the Stratford Shakespearean Festival live performance for an expansive take on the tune.)
SiriusXMU
- Paper Cup-Real Estate featuring Sylvan Esso (Relaxed guitar and vocals; I hear elements of The Smiths and early to mid '80s underground rock here.)
