Friday, June 19, 2020

Enlightened Listening for June 19

It's only been two weeks since the last Bandcamp day but they've gone bimonthly in June, donating their share of profits on this Juneteenth to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. Of course that means this edition of Enlightened Listening is once again hosted on Bandcamp. This week you'll find Baauer's sensational sophomore album PLANET'S MAD, a trio of EPs, a couple free downloads and a 10 artist charitable collaboration. Find each release below with brief accompanying description. Enjoy!

Lost Desert - Lost Desert & Friends
As the temperatures continue to rise, I can't think of a better catalog to enjoy in the shade with a cold drink. A touch heavier than most of the previous ADID releases, but the slow burning brilliance of it remains. Personal favourite: "That Moment And You."

Moon Boots - Pure Moons Vol. 1
More easy flowing deep house/disco/dance cuts. Electronic escapism. Personal favourite: "Sundae."

Gregory Porter - 1960 What? (Ahmed Sirour Remix)
Incredible tribute mix made with a number of classic samples as well as a chant from this year's BLM march in Seattle. The passion is palpable and the energy infectious. My favourite release of the day.

DAVIE - Testify
Another impassioned and soulful affair. Instantly catchy. Sure to have you tapping your toes and clapping/snapping along. Expect big things from DAVIE and Defected.

Ticklish - The Way I Love You
Beautifully crafted, especially as the vocals and strings sew it all together. Top notch Ticklish.

Juelz - Renegade
How seven producers managed to make a singular track so seamless is a stunning feat. It's a wicked ride that feels like a megamix of all things Sable Valley. Watch out for the reprise in the last minute.

Baauer - PLANET'S MAD
An album/project like no other. Short of literally making a new planet, Baauer has done it all. It comes with its own full length video (here) and even more immersive content on Spotify (see here). Further proof that Baauer is in a league of his own. Personal favourites: "PIZZAWALA," "AETHER" & "HOME."

Masayoshi Iimori - Wonky Rave
The title says it all. Iimori offers up a trio of truly turnt tracks, each more brain-battering than the last. Explosive energy and gut-wrenching grit amidst some supremely satisfying rave sounds. Personal favourite: "Wonky Rave."

Jesse Zimmerman - Gamma
Fitting final track as we enter into the void. Dark synthwave affair clearly inspired by the cyberpunk movies Zimmerman was watching when this was written.