Mixtape Therapy: Songs the Algorithm Missed.
A weekly-or when I feel like it-column offering clinical attention for middle-child masterpieces.
For the record, I don’t have a lick of musical talent. Cant play an instrument. My singing has been known to make small children cry while running away from home.
That said, I’ve got a razor-sharp-ear. I can’t always predict what’s going to be popular, but I always know what’s exceptional. Or at least a delicious vibe.
And I’m a giver, so here we are.
My go-to ear worms:
Sinking Boat, Dreams, Far Away
Genre(s): Folk-Pop, Velvet Rock
You know this Seventies queen loves me some classic soft rock. And I’m a sucker for luscious harmonies. Considering this Brooklyn band all happen to be siblings, I’m guessing they were either born with their euphonic gifts or they practiced all the time because they have a musicality beyond their years. The results are a delight: velvety arrangements with thoughtful lyrics that flow without being overproduced. They embody a buoyant energy and yet demonstrate the confidence and maturity to not drift into bubble gum territory.
Right now, the youngest sibling, Momo Boyd, is getting attention with her solo project-rightfully so-but I’m hoping her success leads more people back to the family collective.
Also, their Dreams cover is one of the best I’ve ever heard, something I don’t throw around lightly considering Stevie Nicks is my birthday twin and I take that shit very seriously 😋
Therapist’s Note: the perfect band for those of you tired of keeping yourselves small. And proof soft and strong are not mutually exclusive.
That image, Harper.
A few months ago, my 23yo reached out to me to ask me help them to make a mixtape.
I. Shit. You. Not.
They and their partner were hitting a dating milestone and it was also going to be Valentine’s Day. I had a voicemail, “Dad. You’re old. I need your help. I want to turn a playlist into a mixtape.”
The child had some old blank 60min cassettes and one of those recorders with the aux/line in. Mono.
So we talked about leader tape, balancing the time on each side, how to set the input levels from the MacBook to ensure balanced volume throughout the recording.
And yes. Putting the pencil into the cogs to get through the leader tape and into the magnetic media.
Good times. lol.
Awesome! I'm checking them out. And as for sharing a birthday with Stevie Nicks - too rad! 🌸