Weekly Playlist (10/17/2024)

Photo Courtesy of the Official John Coltrane Website

Lauren McCarty | Contributing Writer

“Ballet” – The Garden

Fans are hopeful the Garden will drop an album sometime before the end of the year with the recent release of this track following their single “Filthy Rabbit Hole” in June. Released under their independent record label Vada Vada, this electronic punk tune has their classic distorted sound effects and an addicting beat. According to their website, “vada vada” is the term they created to represent their music and other creations; it represents their total freedom of expression without boundaries of any sort, which is evident in their music.

“Cousin Mary” – John Coltrane

This track is from John Coltrane’s 1960 album Giant Steps, one of the most influential jazz albums of all time. This tune features Coltrane’s hard bop tenor saxophone, accompanied by Tommy Flannagan’s piano, Art Taylor on drums, and Paul Chambers on bass. This jazz classic was written to reflect the vibrant personality of Coltrane’s cousin, Ms. Alexandra, a huge supporter of her cousin and the Philadelphia jazz community. If you’re a fan of jazz, this song and the story behind it are fundamental. 

“Provider” –  Lexa Gates

I’ve had this single by emerging artist Lexa Gates on repeat for a month. Any hip-hop track that samples an old school song will appear on my playlists. Her voice is soulful and the lyrics talk about caring for her family while drowning in responsibilities. It’s an expressive yet laid back tune. Gates is a fairly new artist and I am eager to see what she makes next. 

“Most Likely You Go Your Way (And I’ll Go Mine)” – Bob Dylan

This time of year I describe the weather as Bob Dylan weather (when your light jacket isn’t quite warm enough). This song from Dylan’s 1966 album Blonde on Blonde is one of my favorites. It wouldn’t be a Dylan song without the powerful harmonica, and mediocre singing with great lyrics. If you love Timothee Chalamet and are planning on seeing him in A Complete Unknown but have never heard any Bob Dylan, listen to this album first. 

“Something Less Than Intended” – Portraits of Past

This song may not be for everyone, but if you like screamo, then this song’s raw intensity will impress you. It’s both aggressive and melodic. Portraits of Past powerfully explores themes of complex feelings about relationships and self reflection in this song. If you like rock music that can invoke deep emotions, this band is one for you to explore.