It’s been a while since I made a proper mood mix, so I wanted this one to be big. As I started sequencing the songs, it became quickly clear my general 80-minute-tops rule for a mix just wasn’t going to cut it. With great debuts from artists like Grimes, Alabama Shakes and some guy named Jack White, plus wonderful new tracks from Radiohead, M83, and The Black Keys, there’s a wealth of great new music to share. I just couldn’t cut down to 20 or so songs. Also, there were two types of songs I was selecting. The first were songs that were intimate in production, but expansive in their expression. The second set were much more expansive in production, but had an intimate quality.
That’s when it became clear. I would have to do the classic rock cliché and make a double album. Or in this case a double mixtape. Each side with 21 fantastic indie/alternative tracks. Each side a complete thought, but meant to complement each other. If you want the full effect, I suggest carving 3 hours out of your life, and sitting down with your favorite cold beverage and enjoy the musical journey. It’s just like sitting next to me, and me telling you why you should love a certain song or artist. I’m sure I’ve done this countless times to each and every one of you. And since so many of us, unfortunately, see less and less of each other, this is closest way I can make that happen. Take this as the big hug it’s meant to be.
Finally, the name. It comes from the amazing sky in Dallas this time of year. On clear days, the blue is just so expansive that you can get lost in it. But since there isn’t one que from clouds on depth, there’s an intimate quality. It wraps around your outstretched hand and feels very close. It’s truly a wonder, and reminds me why I do love living in Dallas even if it means I can’t see so many of you as often as I’d like. So if you are inclined, please download these two massive tracks and enjoy. As always, I’d love to hear from you on what you think, and anything you’re listening to that I should be. Love you all.
Crystal Clear Blue Sky Vol. 1 – Night Cometh
Am I That Lonely Tonight? – Justin Townes Earle
Go To Hell – Raphael Saadiq
We All Try – Frank Ocean
Freedom – Spiritualized
September – The Shins
Do I Wait – Ryan Adams
Rising Red Lung – Wilco
Evening’s Kiss – Willis Earl Beal
Wash. – Bon Iver
17 – Youth Lagoon
Normal Song – Perfume Genius
One – Damien Rice
Just A Song – Girls
Powa – Tune-Yards
No Future – Craig Finn
Street Joy – White Denim
Licking The Palm Of The Burning Handshake – Zola Jesus
Heart Skipped A Beat – The xx
Wait – M83
Symphonia IX (my wait is u) – Grimes
Staircase – Radiohead
Crystal Clear Blue Sky Vol. 2 – Fabulous Restrooms
Little Black Submarines – The Black Keys
Open Your Heart – The Men
Comeback Kid – Sleigh Bells
Jerome – Lykke Li
Paradise – Coldplay
We Are Young – Fun.
Hold On – Alabama Shakes
Born To Die – Lana Del Rey
On ‘n’ On – Justice
Still Life – The Horrors
Keep You – Wild Belle
Love Interruption – Jack White
Civilian – Wye Oak
Strangers – Lotus Plaza
Origins – Tennis
California – Delta Spirit
The Shakes – Atlas Sound
When I Open My Eyes – Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr.
Midnight City – M83
Amor Fati – Washed Out
I’ll Take Care Of You – Gil Scott-Heron and Jamie xx
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