Venus Smiles Not in the House of Tears

Samora Pinderhughes

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My bandmate Laura Winkler had been raving about Samora Pinderhughes for a while. I discovered this album a little later and never tire of listening to it again and again. Magnificent, unconventional, and extremely diverse songwriting, combined with an exceptional voice and superb production.

Afrikan Culture

Shabaka

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"Afrikan Culture" by Shabaka Hutchings (Sons of Kemet) is a meditative, contemplative piece of work: The acoustic woodwind- and Shakuhachi textures instantly take me to another Kosmos.

The Loop

Jordan Rakei

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I had saved this album when it first dropped last year, but only recently gave it the attention it deserved – and wow, what a revelation! The richness of its sound is stunning, with songs that build and evolve beautifully. The musical diversity keeps things fresh throughout, backed by impeccable production. It's simply a joy to listen to from start to finish.

Older

Lizzy McAlpine

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Keep coming back to this album that’s somewhere between intimate and grandiose, simple and sophisticated, silent and pop.

Keeping Company

Bill Laurance & Michael League

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Discovered this gem of an album on the day of the release. It’s not ‘all good’ right now, but this album strikes a chord with me. Acoustic, handmade, down to earth, subtle and complex at the same time, giving comfort and calm confidence.

An Only Me is a Lonely You

Holler my Dear

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Is it okay to recommend your own music? I'm not sure, but since this is my personal microblog, I'll go ahead. Without further ado: “An Only Me is a Lonely You” is the latest release of Holler my Dear. This marks our fifth release and our first on vinyl. Also, the music was recorded on tape. To complete the analog vibe, the cover picture was shot on medium format film by Paul Kaminski. The title track was written by yours truly.

Empathogen

Willow

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This album was recommended to me by my good friend Andreas, who is never at a loss for a good music tip. Keziah Jones ('Ancient Girl'), Phoenix ('False Self') or St. Vincent ('Symptom of Life' – St. Vincent also collaborates on 'Pain for fun') come to mind, but it's really its own fantastic blend of styles that Willow delivers convincingly.

I Can See Our House From Here

SUN

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Ok, I think I have to post this album, recommended by Laura, for its gorgeous cover alone. But the music is a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of sounds as well – or, to put it in Andi Haberls words: "To me, the results feel like Gold Panda/Four Tet meets Steve Reich meets Krautrock meets film scores. I just really wanted to create moods that touch me – and ideally others, too.”

And I Love Her

Brad Mehldau Trio

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It’s been great seeing Brad Mehldau at Konzerthaus Berlin. I’ve been following his career for the past quarter of a century, and he never ceases to inspire me. It’s hard to pick a song from his vast and eclectic catalog, but this rendition of the Beatles song „And I Love Her“ sparks quiet joy.

Mil Coisas Invisíveis

Tim Bernardes

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Tropicália and Saudade from Brazil: Tim Bernardes opens the portal to a mysterious, dreamy world of strings and reverb. The music comes across easy and profound at the same time.