Track #20 of 2023: Drunk on a Flight by Eloise

The torch song malaise of "Drunk on a Flight” by London's own Eloise is just grand, especially as this is her first record. The contemplative introspection just blows me away...

Track #21 of 2023: Psychos by Jenny Lewis

The pride of Las Vegas, Jenny Lewis, is next up in the countdown. "Psychos" reminds me of the late 1970s and listening to the crappy car radio we had in our Hornet. AM Gold!!

Track #22 of 2023: Now And Then by The Beatles

The Beatles have released their final song (although I am personally praying and holding out hope that "Carnival of Light" will see its day at some point) and it is completely wonderful. "Now And Then" was the third song given to Paul, George and Ringo by Yoko for the Anthology records in the mid 1990s. It never mad the cut due to the tremendous hum on Lennon's demo tape. 

But with the advent of AI and Peter Jackson, the song was resurrected and finished. It's so amazing to hear them all together again!

Track #23 of 2023: Chemical by Post Malone

Let the countdown begin! For the next 23 days, I will be counting down the best cuts of 2023. 

First up is pure pop bliss with Post Malone's "Chemical." Insane hooks with a great message of self actualization. 

First Aid Kit: Emmylou (Autumn Music Series)

Today, I am thankful for the track "Emmylou" by First Aid Kit. In so many ways, it's the perfect autumnal song. Great vocals with plenty of echo, acoustic guitars and a gorgeous violin. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!!

The Fusion Syndicate: Beautiful Horizon

The Fusion Syndicate are quite a wonderful prog rock band. Their latest record is magically called Beautiful Horizon and it sounds exactly like that. 

Opening track is completely insane...

Mirroring: Mine (Autumn Music Series)

The ethereal sounds of "Mine" by Mirroring are on my mind today as the fall weather continues to hang on in Minnesota. It's haunting and pleading tone mesmerizes me...

Dylan LeBlanc: Coyote (Album of the Week)

I guess it's going to be a Louisiana love kind of few days here at MarkiesMusic because my pick for Album of the Week is yet another fine musician from the bayou. Dylan LeBlanc has released yet another absolute stunner of a record. Coyote is amazing from start to finish with its sway, swagger and lyrical beauty.

It starts of slinky...

..and then just gets ethereal...

I love albums that expand your mind and make you feel safe and warm in their loneliness...

Video Age: Away From The Castle

New Orleans may be mostly known for jazz and blues but Video Age is making some mighty fine Lo-Fi, lounge music. Their latest is called Away From The Castle and it's been in heavy rotation in our house for the last few weeks, complete with martinis and dancing. 

Opening track...

Robert Finley: BlackBayou

Are you ready for some stanky and dirty blues? Look no further than Black Bayou by the legendary Robert Finley. The Berince, Louisiana native tells the stories of the swamp on this one and man oh man are they filled with heartache.

Perfect!

Black Pumas: Chronicles Of A Diamond

Black Pumas are doing a damn fine job of carrying the torch of soul music in the 21st century. The Austin, Texas natives have just released their sophomore effort and it's a dandy. Chronicles Of A Diamond is truly a jewel.

Opening track...

Wild Nothing: Hold

Wild Nothing is back with a wonderful new record called Hold. It's an 80s dance party, folks! But with modern sounds on the HiFi!!

Opening track=wonderful

Duran Duran: Danse Macabre (Album of the Week)

Duran Duran are at the top of their game. They sound as good as they did in the 80s, if not better given that they are now revered and massively experienced elders of the pop scene. Their last album, Future Past, was my pick for Album of the Year in 2021. 

So it comes as no surprise that their Halloween album, Danse Macabre, is just as amazing. There are some covers and a couple of reworkings of old songs but the real gems are the three new tracks, the best of which is this one...

It's fresh and yet vintage 80s at the same time. Here's to seeing this band continue to make great music as long as the Stones have...20 more years!

Hannah Peel: Don't Kiss The Broken One (Autumn Music Series)

Hannah Peel's gorgeous and cautionary tale from her 2010 release, The Broken Wave, is a classic autumnal track. The violin is the magic touch on this truly lovely song...

King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: The Silver Chord

The ever prolific King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard have a new record out that ditches their heavy sound for a synth vibe. The Silver Chord is yet another fine example of this chameleon like band continues to stretch their musical muscles. 

Here is the opening trifecta!

Mitski: The Land Is Inhospitable And So Are We

Mitski is a gem of the world. Ah, let's change that. The universe. The whole fucking thing. Her latest record is called The Land is Inhospitable And So Are We and it just devours the soul in the most exquisite of ways.

Opening track of the journey...

Fever Ray: Mustn't Hurry (Autumn Music Series)

Fever Ray has a perfect autumn track on their 2017 release, Plunge. "Mustn't Hurry" has just the right amount of echo and haunt that's amazing for a fall stroll. Kudos to the Swedish native for nailing the sound!

The Rolling Stones: Hackney Diamonds (Album of the Week)

The Rolling Stones are just...well...AWESOME! They have an incredible new album out and another in the can ready to go. 

And they are in their 80s:)

Hackney Diamonds is vintage Stones with all the classic guitar riffs and incredibly Glimmer Twins harmonies.

They kick it off just right...

And then comes that magical second track which sounds like early 70s Stones. 

Just an absolute stunner...

Get this record!!!

The Drums: Jonny

The joyful and massively fun pop of The Drums are on my mind today, specifically their new record called Jonny. The NYC natives have released their most personal album yet and all sixteen tracks are gems.

Here is the opening track...

Bombay Bicycle Club: My Big Day

London's own Bombay Bicycle Club is back with My Big Day, a wonderful collection of out and out fun pop songs. There is some of their usual psychedelia too. 

This track reminds me of a 70s TV show theme song...with a dash of psychedelia...