Ned’s Recs

Today's recommendation is "Lightning of July" by Baird. The guitar work is reminiscent of The Beatles/Paul McCartney, the production is extremely layered and lush, and the pop melodies are similar to that of bands like BROCKHAMPTON or Dominic Fike, both of which Baird has worked with in some capacity. This is a catchy one!

Today in 2003, Jay-Z released his eighth studio album, The Black Album. While it was marketed as his last album before retirement, he continued his career in 2006. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, becoming his top selling record of the 2000s.

Today's recommendation is Hangover Game by MJ Lenderman. Lenderman is the guitarist for North Carolina alt rock band Wednesday, but his solo music is very special as well. This song, characterized by his classic alt-country twang, and driven by the pedal steel and sparkling main guitar, is about game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, in which Michael Jordan apparently played with the flu.

On this day in 2004, founder of the Wu-Tang Clan ODB (aka Ol' Dirty Bastard) collapsed and died at a recording studio in Manhattan. He was only 35 years old.

Today's recommendation is "Dancing Circles" by Sampha. His long awaited album Lahai did not disappoint, and this song encapsulates the ideas and production of the album perfectly. Piano is used uniquely as a percussion instrument, and the drums coming in add a depth that not many other artists are capable of.

On this day in 2002, Eminem's semi-biographical movie 8 Mile came out in theaters. This movie, along with the original song "Lose Yourself", became critically acclaimed smashes soon after.

Today's recommendation is "spin" by Philadelphia-based indie rock band. Their unique shoegaze and melodic pop sound never gets old, and this song encapsulates that magic perfectly.

Today in 1968, Bob Dylan released his single "All Along the Watchtower", which he has performed in concert more than any other of his songs. It later appeared on his album "John Wesley Harding" and was covered by many artists, most notably Jimi Hendrix for the album Electric Ladyland.

Today's recommendation is "Town" from a favorite alt-country band of mine, Hovvdy. The layered vocal harmonies in the chorus and driving twangy guitar create a wistful vibe, making it one of my favorite produced songs from them. Definitely check out Hovvdy if you haven't yet.

Today in 1992, Canadian musician Neil Young released one of his most popular albums, "Harvest Moon", with the title track being one of his fan-favorites.

Today's recommendation is Poor Madeline by Daffo. I've always enjoyed this type of female-led indie rock, and Daffo embodies everything I love about it. Catchy guitar riffs, hauntingly whiny but beautiful vocals, and amazing production. Check it out!

On this spooky day in 2000, Outkast released their fourth studio album Stankonia under LaFace Records. It was met with critical acclaim and is still widely considered one of the greatest hip hop albums ever, debuting at number 2 on the Billboard 200 chart.

Today's song recommendation is another one from Wilco, one of my favorites. It's called "Impossible Germany" from their 2007 album Sky Blue Sky.

Today in 1995, American alternative/country band Wilco released their second studio album, Being There, under Deprise Records. It was met with critical acclaim, and is recognized as a large improvement from their first record, A.M. Below is the band performing "Red Eyed and Blue" from Being There at Marble Mountain in Newfoundland.