Songs On Repeat: September 2023
Kempsey:
Dead Man’s Bones - In the Room Where You Sleep (2009)
As soon as August started to fade out I have been slowly reintroducing spooky and Halloween themed tracks to my regular listening habits. I love that it’s completely experimental and quirky. Bonus points that it’s an old Ryan Gosling music project.
Fleetwood Mac - Dreams (2004 Remastered)
An absolute classic, I’m pretty sure it resurfaced in a previous On Repeat list, but it really reminds me of my college performing days. My band did a great job but I prefer the integrity of the original, Rumours makes for a comforting album to listen to on my morning commutes.
Doja Cat - Paint The Town Red (2023)
I’m slowly becoming a fan of Doja Cat. I found I liked a few songs via TikTok, the hooky verses really reeled me on board. I absolutely adore this song, it’s empowering and addictive.
Hombody - Temptation (2021)
I came across this through an instagram account following me and my curiosity peaked. I did a little digging and came across this little gem that deserves much more recognition. It’s beautifully produced and written from an independent level and such an easy dreamlike listen.
Sleep Token - Nazareth (2017)
This is the first Sleep Token Track I ever fell in love with so everytime I listen, it hits harder. I had an obsession with the newest album that came out this year so revisiting this track is like coming home. Also, the fact that my partner saw them live at Leeds Fest made me super jealous so I had to prove I was the bigger fan, somehow playing every song on repeat ever since.
Blind Channel - Dark Side (2022)
I caught Blind Channel over at Download Festival earlier this year and has been playing on my mind a lot. I feel bad for only catching less than half of their set but from what I saw and heard, it was quite awesome. This track always reminds me of Download and helps me mentally prepare me for the day ahead.
EDDIE, Lights - Pocketknife (2023)
This track came out very recently but I have seen it amongst my Tiktok algorithm as well as a nice addition to my Lights obsession with her feature. It's an easy listen, I have come to introduce myself to EDM slowly, it's not too obnoxious and stays grounded lyrically
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Tyler:
Billy Joel - Movin' Out (Anthony's Song) (1977)
We're "Movin' Out" of my usual 5 song structure, starting off with this classic Billy Joel song.
One of his more instrumentally intricate, this iconic rock ballad features a full band that pairs well with Billy's booming vocals. The trumpet line from this track has been stuck in my head for days, alongside "YOU OUGHTA KNOW BY NOW" looping over and over.
Rest assured though, that earworm torture is worthy penance for getting to enjoy this classic Billy Joel track. Check it out.
Crowded House - Don't Dream It's Over (1986)
Clearly, September is the month of earworms, because I've got a story and a half for you reader(s).
The chorus of this track has been stuck in my head for about 12 years. That powerful "Hey Now" from New Zealander Neil Finn has lived in my head for years rent free, only to be awoken by the 'Discover Weekly' algorithm.
If you're anything like me, which I imagine you are if you take the time to read my recommendations, you're a sucker for some chorus guitar-jangling and a killer chorus. Crowded House delivers both here - give it a listen.
Micheal Hurley - Just a Bum (1964)
I'm not just a sucker for good choruses, stripped-back folk songs like what we've got here from the cult icon Micheal Hurley. The singer/songwriter wails some fun lyrics to a catchy melody over a simple set of chords that lets the emotion come out in full force. If you're looking for something a little more laid back than what I've brought you so far, here's your song.
The Replacements - Swingin Party (1985)
Whoever settled on the reverb on this song best have gotten a solid raise back in the 80s, because it really takes this underground rock & roll song to another level. The slow tempo and empty room feel to this very 80s song adds a loneliness that really comes through. Paul Westerberg does well to carry this minimal song with a less-traditional voice. I'd definitely recommend giving this one a listen, alongside some of their other lesser-known work.
Al Green - I'm a Ram (1971)
Let's cheer ourselves up with a bit of the 70's R&B icon Al Green. If you like your brass, get ready to groove right from the start. Of course Al Green himself absolutely kills the vocals with his explosive energy and soulful voice, but what really makes this track for me is that killer bass tone. If you're a fan of this, make sure to check out more of that Memphis funk sound that pairs so well with Green's vocals.
Tyler, The Creator ft. Frank Ocean - She (2011)
Two of my favourite artists, on the breakout album that took Tyler to stardom. This track has been on repeat for years.
'She' is an incredible demonstration of both artists' talents. Tyler brings a unique flow and inspired personal lyrics that draw the listener in. The production has a rough edge that suits his Goblin era style well, but brings in a smooth synth lead that lets Frank Ocean kill it on the chorus vocals. You probably won't be singing this one to yourself in public, but that's the kind of frankness (pun unintended) that has helped both of these artists standout in the past few years.
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Scott:
Scott’s on Repeat comes care of his son this month. The kid might only be 4 but he’s got some stellar music taste!
Foo Fighters - All My Life (2002)
Refused - New Noise (1998)
999 - Homicide (1978)
David Bowie - Let’s Dance (1983)
Biffy Clyro - Who’s Got a Match? (2007)
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Amy:
>30 Second Bangers:
The Descendents - I Like Food (1987)
It’s a short (17 secs), sharp additive old school punk anthem! And who doesn't like food “I like food, food tastes good!”
The Ataris - The Radio Still Sucks (2000)
Another epic, short (28 secs) blast of raging punk anthemic-ness berating all the shit the radio forces down our ears, although I don’t agree with their moaning about Oasis!
Should have been HUGE!
Speedway - Can’t Turn Back (2004)
Speedway had the perfect formula, catchy hooks, sing-a-long choruses and a strong female frontwoman. The press loved them but they never managed to achieve the mainstream success they deserved. ‘Can’t Turn Back’ is a forgotten gem that deserves to be heard. Also. check out their version of ‘Genie In a Bottle’ it works so much better as a rock song!
The Montrose Avenue - Shine (1998)
Emerging as the Britpop movement was drawing to a close, Montrose Avenue got criminally overlooked as the music scene shifted direction. ‘Shine’ is a shimmering blend of punchy hooks and uptempo indie vibes.
Obsessions:
The Wonder Years - We Could Die Like This (2013)
If you didn’t already know, TWY are my favourite band in the world, ever! I’m getting super excited for “The Greatest Generation” tour in November so naturally I’m playing the record a lot! Absent from their live sets for years and one of my personal faves from the record ‘We Could Die Like This’ is definitely the tune I’m most looking forward to!
Big Country - Just A Shadow (1984)
2 Northern Big Country gigs in September have definitely kept them on my listening radar and with the announcement of the “Steeltown” 40th anniversary tour next year I’ve been giving the album some extra love. BC are definitely an addiction I don’t see ending anytime soon!
Bad Religion - Big Bang (1989)
I had a proper “stop you in your tracks” moment with this song when it came on a random playlist. I had to listen to it three times on the bounce. I then proceeded to listen to Bad Religion relentlessly for 2 days straight. I think it's the start of a beautiful new obsession.
Half Man Half Biscuit - The Trumpton Riots (1986)
I love HMHB, they're a band I can obsess over and never grow tired of. Their brand of satire always residentates with me and raises a smile. This month regardless of what else I’ve listened to, ‘The Trumpton Riots’ has been stuck in my head!
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John:
Breaking Benjamin - Breath (2006)
This song takes me back to my Radio Station days, where I was affiliated with Radio Stations in the USA that got me into the band.
Tommy Johansson - One of Us (2014) (not on Spotify -YouTube video below!)
While this is a metal cover of a classic ABBA song, it works so well a mixture of a cheese & metal rolled into one
The Offspring - Come Out and Play (1994)
Before the days of Pretty Fly for a White Guy, The Offspring were about heavy rifts and a Punk style attitude. This song was part of their fantastic Album Smash, which I have owned since its release.
Nickleback - Horizon (2023)
Now I know that Nickleback are one of the most Marmite of bands, but they do release some decent songs and this is one of them.
Pete Wylie & The Mighty WAH! - Story of the Blues (1984)
Now this is one of those songs that instantly takes me back to my childhood, which has aged pretty well.
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Scarlett:
The Story So Far - Big Blind (2023)
This is the latest single from the band and the first music they’ve released since 2018. The band are currently on tour supporting Blink 182, but I was lucky enough to catch one of their surprise shows at Camden’s ‘Underworld’. I love this new single and feel like it really captures the band’s signature sound.
No Pressure - Lock It Up (2022)
This pop punk band debuted in 2020, fronted by The Story So Far’s frontman Parker Cannon. I love the energy in these songs compared to the more melodic songs of The Story So Far’s and there’s really not a song I don’t like from these guys.
PVRIS - St Patrick (2014)
You know when you suddenly remember a song that is just bloody amazing? Well, that. I’ve had this one on repeat after rediscovering it again and I can’t help but headbang a little to it every time. Lynn Gunn’s vocals are enchanting over catchy guitar riffs.
Linkin Park - One Step Closer (2000)
Another song which I’d forgotten about but is simply an absolute banger. From start to finish this one has me moving and shouting along.
