December’s hit, and not before too long so will the endless plains of snow, if they haven’t already fallen by the time this reaches you. You’re going to see a fudge-ton of holiday cheer running around the town as everyone lights their menorahs or plugs in their Christmas lights to light up the season. (Personally, I’d like to just set bonfires in honor of winter solstice.) But before everyone bombards you with boughs of holly or assaults you with mistletoe, I figured I give you something to try and ward away those evil carols with.

So alright you cool cats, grab your bourbon, your rolled up cigarettes, and get cozy, because this week I’m hitting ya with some cool  big bands, R&B, and some jazz music to warm up you lounge lizards. Not much to say other than enjoy.

Dean Martin – You’re Nobody Til Somebody Loves You

Dean Martin speaks certain truths (He didn’t write it, but his voice sure makes it sound like he did.) here, it’s one of those nice songs you can just sit and enjoy or slow dance to when you’re in your sixties. Soft listening and hard lessons are all abound in this delightful classic.

Julie London – Cry Me A River

This is a nice tune that’s starts off fun enough with the classical guitar before London’s sultry voice takes over. From there the song does indeed flow like a slow moving river full of tears. Simple and effective.

Tom Waits – Midnight Lullabye

One of my all time favorite Tom Waits songs. I had like Tom Waits other material but the first time I heard this song I was blown away by how clean his voice was. Gone was the husky whiskey soaked voice I was accustomed to.  I often play this album during rainy days, and it always fits the dreary weather.

Ella Fitzgerald – Dream A Little Dream of Me

My favorite version of this classic. Maybe it’s the eerie organ or the atmosphere of the song. But more than likely it’s Ella Fitzgerald incredible range of vocals and volume. Her pitch is absolutely perfect and the smoky nature of her voice is an essential to a tune like this.

Ray Charles – America The Beautiful

I remember that pivotal scene in The Sandlot where this song comes on over the baseball game on the 4th of July. It’s still as a great song as it was then. Ray Charles has a unique vocal style some try to emulate but can’t match. Ray at his best.

Etta James – At Last

Etta Freakin’ James. ‘Nuff said.

Frank Sinatra – The Best is Yet to Come

I started with part of  the Rat Pack and I’ll end it that way too. It’s dead week and you’re holding onto to that last thread of hope of passing your finals right? Well, Frankie’s got you covered. Always a good note to end on when you’re almost done with the semester. Because after all, the best has yet to come.

 

By: Nico Thomas

Last 5 posts by nthomas