Standout tunes heard today:
'40s Junction
- Down Argentina Way-Leo Reisman with Sara Horn (If the title doesn't ring a bell, you still might have heard this melody played in commercials promoting tropical getaways.)
Deep Tracks
- Whenever You're Ready-Brian Auger's Oblivion Express (This is one of the stronger blends of jazz, rock, and funk that I've heard. The organ goes a long way in underpinning the mood.)
The Groove
- Running Away-Roy Ayers (Rhythmically, this has a McFadden & Whitehead feel.)
Holiday Pops
- Sleigh Ride-Duo Campion-Vachon (This piano rendition has a Ferrante & Teicher feel.)
Holiday Traditions
- Christmastime Is Here-Mel Torme (There's no topping the original version from "A Charlie Brown Christmas," but Torme's vocals capture the warmth of the season.)
- I Saw Three Ships-Gary Schmidt (A slightly unusual chord progression for this carol's hook. The tempo shift choices in this piano arrangement are offbeat, as well.)
Luna
- Made In New York-Tania Maria (Catchy vocals and rhythm playing. The synthesized backing roots this track firmly in 1985.)
- Le setier de neige-Safia Nolin (Endearingly plaintive vocals and guitar.)
Smokey's Soul Town
- I'll Be Around-The Spinners (An honest way of saying, "I know I'm not
your beloved, but if you ever need my friendship, I'm here for you."
This group recorded a lot of excellent hits in the '70s and early '80s,
and this is one of their best.)
Spa
- The 2nd Law-Michael Hedges (A guitar melody with a pensive vibe.)
- Cottage-Tangerine Dream (Fit for underscoring an arduous trek or plotting one's escape from a haunted house.)
- Driver-Soccer Mommy (A lyrical reminder of who's steering a relationship and why it's likely to stay that way.)
