Back To the Woodlands - Ernest Hood

Mystical and magical listening rooted in nature. Ernest Hood created his music which he called ”visual postcards” as a way to make the beauty of nature more accessible to everyone. His vision and appreciation of nature and life shines through like sunlight. The album is powered by natural sounds, zither, and flute-like synth. Good for being daydreaming and relaxing.

The Count - Frog

The freakiest album of all time created by an indie twang father of two, pushing forty, inspired by both Mozart and Lil Wayne, one Daniel Bateman and his brother Steven Bateman. This album is insane I've never been more infatuated with someone's lyricism. Brother music for the win.

Charm - Clairo

I never thought I'd get on the Clairo hype train, but this album has bewitched me mind, body, and spirit. It is a simply non skip album because it is so overwhelmingly pleasant.

The Scary Era - Scary Éire

If you like hip hop and haven't listened to this album you are cheating yourself of such a good time. Scary Éire are the Irish Beastie boys. This album has such a personality; from clear reggae influence to skits on the track and the ultimate DJ MEK!!! tis a must listen.

The Best Of Nina Simone (1969)

The first time I played this I couldn't turn it off, I had to finish the whole thing. That's just how absolutley captivating Nina Simone's voice and expression is, highlighted and underscored by broadway piano.

Kora - Djelimoussa Cissoko

Magical and beautiful. This album turned kora into my favorite instrument. Much like Ernest Hood's album, this is one you can get lost in despite, but maybe even in part for it's lack of vocals. The plucks of kora turn into a rich story, tracing itself into bends, strolling along and encountering strangers along the way. Kora has historically been used by storytellers, or Jali in West Africa to entertain, meditate, and preserve history.

今夕何夕 (What Night is This?)- Chen Lan Li

My Taiwanese queen Chen Lan Li absolutley annihilates Mandopop in a singular album. Her singing is infectious regardless of language barriers. I always try my best to sing it. Such a fun album to put on and listen fully.

Brighten the Corners: Nicene Creedence Ed. - Pavement

Despite being posed as unapproachable for their nonchalant and generally abstract lyrics, Pavement defies categories put on them and has a damn good time doing it. The songs swing between undeniable hits to lowkey devastating sounds. I have no idea what the lyrics mean for the most part, but it always makes me feel something anyways.

Sons of 1973 - Satellite Lovers

Another purely pleasant album by Shibuya-Kei musicians brimming with joyous vocals and music. The album parallels Yo Gabba Gabba for its dreamy pop and sweet sounds. Perfect for summer and spring.