Artificially Intimidating: Monthly Playlists by Nicholas Rhodes (AKA @NickyDigital)

The Playlist as Time Machine - April 2026 Playlist

Nicholas Rhodes — Fri, 01 May 2026 20:21:42 GMT

As always, this month’s cover art was created by feeding the tracklist into an AI image generator to see what it thinks this collection of songs looks like. Your guess is as good as mine.

I’ve been working on my portfolio and resume this month (it’s still very much a WIP and trending toward the absurdist internet art version of a resume] — one of those exercises that sounds straightforward until you’re three hours deep into old hard drives and folders you haven’t opened in years. In this case, it sent me back through a lot of old NickyDigital.com material: photos, flyers, setlists, documentation of years of events I either forgot I’d done or couldn’t believe I’d pulled off.

There are some absolute gems in there. But more than the photos, what kept stopping me was the music. Specifically the artists. Fifteen years, five or six nights a week, building rooms around artists I wanted people to hear, it was selfishly motivated, honestly. I wanted to hear this music with other people. It turns out that’s also just what a DJ is.

That’s also why this part of the newsletter exists. The playlist is the closest I can get to being a 20 something and having energy and creating community around music and dancing and partying. So I keep making it every month. And this month, maybe more than usual, you can hear the through-line.

The Ones I Go Way Back With

Saadi’s “Bad Seeds” made it onto this playlist, and finding it in my library again while going through that archive felt like bumping into an old friend. I’ll leave it at that. [Photo gallery of Saadi performing at my parties from 2010 & 2011]

Róisín Murphy and DJ Koze have been in each other’s orbit for years, and their collaboration on “The Universe” (from Róisín’s Hit Parade record) is exactly what you’d want from two people who understand each other that well. I’ve worked with Koze and his instincts are just different. He hears things in a track that nobody else would think to pull out and somehow matches that with the next track that you’d never expect to hear … and it’s just GREAT.
[Photo gallery of Resolute & Blkmarket Boat Party with Dj Koze and Henrik Schwarz from 2014]

José González had what felt like a surprise album drop this spring, Against The Dying Of The Light. I admit, it’s been a long time since I’ve thought about him, his music, the bouncy balls. This new track came across my speakers. I liked it, but my jogged brain NEEDED to hear “Heartbeats”. I was instantly transported back to 2003, a sophomore in college, in my Emerson College closet of a dorm room. Then I googled it to find the Bravia video and realized that for the past 23 years I’ve been wrong — I thought The Knife covered González, but according to the internet, I was wrong. I wonder how different my life would have been if I hadn’t been living under these false pretenses all along. can still stop me in my tracks and melt me into a puddle
[Photo Gallery of NY Mag’s Campfire on the Canal from 2008]
[Photo Gallery of The Knife headlinging Iceland Airwaves in Reykjavik in 2014]

The Full-Circle Moment

I photographed Avalon Emerson as part of my collaboration with Together Boston. Watching them evolve from DJ sets into a full live band on Written Into Changes has been one of the more interesting artist trajectories I’ve tracked in recent years. “Earth Alive” is on this playlist and it does what the best tracks from that record do, it sounds like a DJ set and a live band simultaneously, similar and completely different all at once. If you saw them perform before the band era, give this album a real listen.

[Photo Gallery of Avalon Emerson performing at Together X Disc Woman in Boston, MA in 2017]

A Few New Arrivals

Beck dropped “Ride Lonesome” mid-month and it’s exactly right — a little dusty, a little strange, leans into the title’s reference without being precious about it. Nation of Language covered Springsteen’s “Tougher Than the Rest” and Ian Richard Devaney sounds like he means every single word.

And then there’s track 12: “Yeh Chand Koi Deewana Hai” by Alka Yagnik and Kumar Sanu, from a 1972 Bollywood soundtrack. I’m not going to over-explain how it ended up here. Sometimes a song finds you and it fits and you leave it where it landed.

Full Track List:

Satellite (Intro) | HAAi; Obi Franky; Jon Hopkins; ILĀ; Trans Voices
Satellite | HAAi; Obi Franky; Jon Hopkins; ILĀ; Trans Voices
The Universe | Róisín Murphy; DJ Koze
Listen2me | Foxwarren; Andy Shauf; Darryl Kissick
Etyd | José González
Lovelovelove | Flea
Rude Crude Lude | Chassol
Jet Boy Jet Girl | NIGHT MOVER
Children Of The Revolution - Remastered 2026 | Violent Femmes
Black Gold | Escape-ism
Shemesh | Shye Ben Tzur; Jonny Greenwood; The Rajasthan Express
Yeh Chand Koi Deewana Hai | Alka Yagnik; Kumar Sanu
Statue Down | Alex Cameron
Earth Alive | Avalon Emerson
You’re Here | Ms Ray
Not My Problem | Noga Erez
Hey, Hi | Noga Erez
Ride Lonesome | Beck
Tougher Than the Rest | Nation of Language
Bad Seeds | Saadi
The Good Life | Jessica Lea Mayfield; Dolour

Previous months:

March 2026 Playlist: I'm Back, and So Is Everyone Else

Nicholas Rhodes — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:59:40 GMT

As always, this month’s cover art was created by feeding the tracklist into an AI image generator to see what it thinks this collection of songs looks like. Your guess is as good as mine.

I’m back. The playlists never stopped — I just stopped hitting send. (If you missed the 12 playlists I owe you, they’re all here.)

March was one of those months where every artist I’ve been following for years decided to drop something at the same time. New Robyn. New Gorillaz. New Ladytron. Tiga. James Blake. Wet Leg remixed by The Dare. It felt like 2024 and 2025 were the quiet years, and suddenly everyone showed up to the party in March.

But here’s the thing — I almost missed the Gorillaz album entirely.

I was visiting my parents and they started describing this band they’d seen on Saturday Night Live. After a few minutes of increasingly confused hand gestures, I realized they were talking about Gorillaz. That’s how I found out about the new album. Not Spotify. Not Instagram. Not a playlist algorithm. My parents watching SNL.

We’re living in a world where music promotion is so broken that you don’t even hear about the things you want to hear about unless you really go digging. Which, honestly, is kind of why this newsletter exists.

Two tracks from the album made it onto this month’s mix: “Damascus” featuring Omar Souleyman and Yasiin Bey, and “Skinny Ape.” Both are worth the listen.

FCUKERS: From My Block to Your Feed

Speaking of artists I’ve been tracking — Fcukers have two tracks on this playlist, and their trajectory has been one of my favorite things to watch. Shanny, the vocalist, owns a restaurant, Betty, essentially on my block. I think I first followed her on Instagram and saw what she was building musically on the side.

They’ve gone from Dimes Square recognizable faces to getting booked by MeanRed — that’s my friend Jen Lyon‘s production company, and Jen has a really great eye for spotting talent early. Once MeanRed booked them, I knew these guys were going somewhere. Fast forward to now and they’re NME cover stars, they just dropped their debut album Ö on one of my favorite labels, Ninja Tune, they’ve opened for Tame Impala, LCD Soundsystem, and Harry Styles, and they’re playing Coachella, Glastonbury, and Primavera Sound. Billboard did a whole feature on them. It’s exactly the kind of thing that reminds me why I love living here — watching your neighbors turn into something.

Help(2): The Charity Comp You Need to Hear on Repeat

The Help(2) compilation from War Child has been on repeat since it landed on my radar, and it deserves multiple plays from everyone reading this. Beth Gibbons covering “Sunday Morning” and Young Fathers‘ “Don’t Fight the Young” both made it onto this month’s playlist, but honestly I had to hold myself back from including half the album.

The lineup is absurd: Arctic Monkeys, Fontaines D.C., Pulp, Bat For Lashes, Arlo Parks, Olivia Rodrigo — all contributing original or cover tracks for War Child. It’s the kind of compilation that shouldn’t exist in 2026 but somehow does, and it’s for a great cause. Go listen to the whole thing.

The Dare × Wet Leg

“Mangetout” remixed by The Dare is exactly what you’d expect and also somehow surprising. The Dare has become this interesting figure — in a lot of ways he feels like a distilled and repurposed version of the best parts of so many artists from 2005–2015. But this collaboration with Wet Leg is genuinely unique. Two very different energies that shouldn’t work together but absolutely do.

Full Track List:

New Life - Midnight Version | Daniel Avery; yunè pinku
Don’t Fight the Young | Young Fathers; War Child Records
Forge | Tycho
Broken Animal | Matt Jaffe
Damascus (feat. Omar Souleyman and Yasiin Bey) | Gorillaz; Omar Souleyman; Yasiin Bey
Skinny Ape | Gorillaz
Black Diamond | Jaakko Eino Kalevi
FRICTION | Tiga
Sunday Morning | Beth Gibbons; War Child Records
Perfect Hand - Power Snatch Version | This Is Lorelei; Hayley Williams; Daniel James
I Had a Dream She Took My Hand | James Blake
Take you away | Julia Takada
What Is Stand-Up? | Chassol; ALA.NI
Bem Bom | Pupillo; Cut Chemist; General Elektriks
Blow My Mind | Robyn
Time Is A Bomb | Metric
mangetout - The Dare remix | Wet Leg; The Dare
Fade Away | Susanne Sundfør
Narcisc0 | Rina Mushonga
American Girls | Harry Styles
Days Of Us | Tom Misch; Kaidi Akinnibi
if you wanna party, come over to my house | Fcukers
Avalanche | Grace Ives
This Is The Place | Joshua Idehen
Mate | PVA
Out Of Rhythm | Lean Low; Jaydonclover
Vista | Okonski

If you haven’t listened to previous months:

12 Playlists. 12 Months. 0 Emails. Until Now.

Nicholas Rhodes — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 04:14:37 GMT

If you're new here from my recent AI posts — welcome. Before all of that, this newsletter started as a monthly playlist series. It still is. Here's what you missed.

The last time I sent you a playlist was March 1st, 2025. I remember because I’d just gotten back from launching Pictor in Las Vegas, I was running on fumes, and I ended the email by promising the March playlist would “hopefully arrive before April.”

It is now almost April 2026.

Here’s what happened: I launched Pictor. I spoke at conferences. I kept building OutSnapped. I launched MirrorMemory. I fell deeper down the AI rabbit hole than I ever expected to. I basically lived inside a terminal for a year. The months blurred together so completely that I genuinely wish I’d had MirrorMemory running on my own life — just to remember what I did in June.

But every single month, without fail, I made a playlist.

A portrait snapped of me by a PopSocial photographer on a recent trip to Las Vegas for a trade show Pictor was exhibiting at.

Not for you. Not for this newsletter. For me. It’s the one ritual that survived the chaos. Every month I’d collect the songs that found me — new releases from favorite artists, the Shazams from random bars, the Spotify rabbit holes at 2am, the recommendations from friends, the old favorites that suddenly hit different — and I’d sequence them into a mix. Then I’d close the laptop and get back to work instead of writing the email.

So here they are. Twelve months of playlists I never got to send you. Think of this as one giant care package from a friend who’s been meaning to text you back.

I’m not going to write about each one this time. I’ll let the music speak for itself. Hit play on whatever month you want — start with the season, start with the most recent one, or just put March 2025 on and work your way forward. They’re all here.

March 2025

April 2025

May 2025

June 2025

July 2025

August 2025

September 2025

October 2025

November 2025

December 2025

January 2026

February 2026

The March 2026 playlist drops in a few days as its own post — back to the regular format with the full tracklist (in theory), the AI-generated cover art, and probably some rambling about whatever I’m building next.

Thanks for still being here. Now hit play 12 times.

— Nick

FEBRUARY PLAYLIST: Not a Leap Year, Not On Time, Still a Vibe

Nicholas Rhodes — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 17:23:39 GMT

Cover art illustrated with elements created in Midjourney v6.1 and animated in Adobe Photoshop.

I could have sworn this was a leap year… yet here we are on March 1st, somehow not February 29th. The world is wacky, and February vanished before I could hit send on this playlist. But while this email might be fashionably late, the mix is right on time.

I just got back from launching Pictor in Las Vegas last week, and life has been busy. The good news? The launch is going great. The bad news? I’ve accidentally become a NINE-to-FIVEer—except I got the AM and PM mixed up, and it turns out my new shift runs from 9AM to 5AM daily. Please send coffee and words of encouragement. Seriously, the words of encouragement are really important right now.

This (or should I say last?) month’s mix is a blend of dreamy grooves, indie gems, and atmospheric soundscapes—perfect for decompressing after long days, or just pretending February never ended.

I’m going to skip talking about each song this time around and get back to work (on OutSnapped, Pictor, and the MARCH playlist—which will hopefully arrive before April, you fools).

FULL Track List:

Revelation | The Knocks; Dragonette | Revelation
Jetsetter | Walker & Royce; Life on Planets | Jetsetter
In Love With A Memory | SASAMI; Clairo | In Love With A Memory
ASHA - Travel Plans Remix | BALTHVS; Travel Plans | ASHA (Travel Plans Remix)
We Didn’t Know We Were Ready (feat. Niamh Regan & Ye Vagabonds) | Ólafur Arnalds; Talos; Niamh Regan; Ye Vagabonds | We Didn’t Know We Were Ready (feat. Niamh Regan & Ye Vagabonds)
This Town Ain't Big Enough For Both Of Us | The Last Dinner Party | This Town Ain't Big Enough For Both Of Us
Sinner | The Last Dinner Party | Prelude to Ecstasy
As Soon As You Can | Twin Shadow | As Soon As You Can
Drop | Tunde Adebimpe | Drop
Idiot Box | Sharon Van Etten | Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory
Caspian Tiger | Beirut | Caspian Tiger
Everything Else | Tunng | Love You All Over Again
Point of Disgust | Perfume Genius; Alan Sparhawk | Point of Disgust
Boots of Spanish Leather | Half Moon Run | Boots of Spanish Leather
BUTTERFLY | MARINA | BUTTERFLY
Starburster | Fontaines D.C. | Romance
blade bird | Oklou | choke enough
You Are The Morning | jasmine.4.t | You Are The Morning
Inside the Lines | Chaparelle; Zella Day; Jesse Woods | Inside the Lines
No Front Teeth | Perfume Genius; Aldous Harding | No Front Teeth
Linger | Sami Thompson | Linger

If you haven't listened to previous months:

Endless January: A Soundtrack for a Month That Won’t End (Or Already Did?)

Nicholas Rhodes — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 20:53:19 GMT

Cover art illustrated with elements created in Midjourney v6.1 and animated in Adobe Photoshop.

This January somehow felt like the longest year of my life, yet somehow, we're already barreling toward 2026. Time is weird—it stretches, contracts, and moves in every direction at once. This month’s playlist is a collection of songs that pull from the past, anchor us in the present, and propel us into the future.

The mix opens with Aphex Twin’s sprawling and hypnotic electronic textures, bending sound and time like no one else can. Then comes Róisín Murphy with a Bedouin remix of Dear Miami—a track that plays with nostalgia and futurism all at once.

St. Lucia’s Campari Lips & Soda follows, an effervescent slice of indie pop that cuts through the winter haze like a sunbeam. Then, SAULT arrives with I Look for You—a song that feels like it’s stretching itself across decades, carrying the weight of history while still sounding like the future. It’s reflective, haunting, and full of that searching quality that makes it a perfect fit for this time-warped mix.

Teleman strips things back with Cristina (Piano Version), a moment of quiet introspection before LA LOM shakes things up with Alacrán, injecting the mix with a rhythmic pulse that feels alive. IDER’s Attachment Theory then takes us into a world of harmonies and deep emotional exploration, setting the stage for Emel and Acid Arab’s Lose My Mind (Acid Arab Remix), a hypnotic, genre-blurring ride.

Dina Summer, Local Suicide, Kalipo, Curses, and Joshua Murphy join forces on Promise Me (Edit), a track that feels like a bright beacon of hope in the winter darkness. Awkward Moments and Illa J keep things playful with Talk to Me Baby, an easygoing moment before we hit a surprising addition.

I never thought I'd be putting a Ringo Starr track on one of these playlists, but here we are. I've long said he’ll be the last Beatle standing—underrated, but outlasting them all. This track with Lucius is a fusion of pop royalty across generations, tying past, present, and future into one infectious melody.

From there, BØRNS gives us a shimmering, retro-inspired moment with Breakfast Of Bohemians, while OK Go makes a triumphant return after more than a decade with A Stone Only Rolls Downhill. Of course, it’s accompanied by a wildly inventive stunt video involving 64 iPhones, because that’s what they do. But don’t let the spectacle overshadow the song itself: this is a pulsing, layered anthem about momentum, nostalgia, and the way time keeps rolling forward whether you’re ready or not. It also got me thinking—if my memory serves, they actually brought treadmills to the basement of the Middle East in Cambridge, Mass., where I first saw them play in 2000? Maybe 2001? (OK, so—I fact-checked myself, and "Here It Goes Again" wasn’t even released until 2006, and I moved out of Boston in 2004. So either time really does move in multiple directions, or I’ve completely invented this memory — But I have made contact with Ron Persky—and while I suspect he isn’t real, the fact that I made contact with him is.)

I don’t consider myself a Harley guy (and if you know me, you probably don’t either), but Tiger La Flor’s track is a real earworm, in a way that’s far more pleasant than the “potato-potato-potato” sound of an actual Harley muffler.

The cinematic Lord Huron track with Kristen Stewart raises more questions for the ‘World Enders’ than answers—and trust me, I’d love to spill the details, but I don’t think I’m allowed just yet. What I can say is that it makes me even more excited for the album the LH guys are putting together, which will soundtrack their first headlining arena tour this year.

Somehow, the fusion of Tamino and Mitski’s voices creates this eerie, magnetic beauty that lingers long after the song ends. It’s one of those rare tracks that feels both ancient and brand new at the same time.

Perfume Genius continues to redefine what’s possible in a song, and It's a Mirror is no exception. Its hypnotic minimalism draws you in, layer by layer, until you’re completely absorbed.

As we near the end of the mix, Deep Sea Diver adds some grit with Shovel, while Oracle Sisters bring a dreamlike haze with Blue Left Hand. Neal Francis channels pure soul with What's Left Of Me, followed by the raw, electric energy of Benjamin Booker on SHOW AND TELL.

And finally, closing things out, we get two tracks from Oklou—first, harvest sky with underscores, a song that feels like it exists in multiple moments at once, and then I Didn’t Give Up on You, a delicate yet powerful closer that leaves us in a state of reflection.

SO IN SHORT: Time bends in all directions, and this mix captures all of it—the momentum, the nostalgia, the detours. Whether we’re looking back, soaking in the present, or speeding toward the future, music is the constant that keeps us grounded.

FULL Track List & Liner Notes:

pretend analog extmix 2b,e2,ru [Manchester 20.09.2019] | Aphex Twin | Music From The Merch Desk (2016 - 2023) — A mesmerizing electronic odyssey that stretches and distorts time itself.
Dear Miami - Bedouin Remix | Róisín Murphy, Bedouin | Dear Miami (Bedouin Remix) — A sultry, atmospheric remix that feels like stepping into a neon-lit future.
Campari Lips & Soda | St. Lucia, Aly & AJ | Campari Lips & Soda — A vibrant, sun-kissed anthem that brings warmth to the coldest days.
I Look for You | SAULT | Acts of Faith — A hypnotic and searching track that carries echoes of the past into the future.
Cristina - Piano Version | Teleman | Cristina (Piano Version) — A stripped-down, emotional take that lingers long after it ends.
Alacrán | LA LOM | Alacrán — A fiery blend of rhythms that demands to be felt as much as heard.
Attachment Theory | IDER | Attachment Theory — A lush, introspective dive into connection and longing.
Lose My Mind - Acid Arab Remix | Emel, Acid Arab | Lose My Mind (Acid Arab Remix) — A pulsing, hypnotic fusion of global sounds and deep club energy.
Promise Me - Edit | Dina Summer, Local Suicide, Kalipo, Curses, Joshua Murphy | Promise Me — An electrifying, genre-blurring groove that refuses to be pinned down.
Talk to Me Baby | Awkward Moments, Illa J | Talk to Me Baby — Playful and infectious, this track is like a carefree late-night conversation.
Come Back | Ringo Starr, Lucius | Look Up — A surprising gem that blends classic charm with modern harmonies.
Breakfast Of Bohemians | BØRNS | Honeybee — A dreamy, kaleidoscopic trip through nostalgia and new beginnings.
A Stone Only Rolls Downhill | OK Go | A Stone Only Rolls Downhill — A triumphant return that proves they’re still masters of inventive pop.
Tighten Up | The Black Keys | Brothers — A bluesy, swagger-filled jam that never gets old.
Back To The Way We Was | BØRNS | Honeybee — A shimmering track that feels both wistful and celebratory.
HEAVEN IS A HARLEY | Tiger La Flor | HEAVEN IS A HARLEY — A rebellious anthem that sticks like a motorbike’s hum on an open road.
Boys In The Girls Room | Baba Stiltz, Okay Kaya | Blurb — A playful and eccentric tune that refuses to follow the rules.
Who Laughs Last (feat. Kristen Stewart) | Lord Huron, Kristen Stewart | Who Laughs Last — A cinematic and haunting piece that leaves you with more questions than answers.
Sanctuary | Tamino, Mitski | Sanctuary — A breathtaking vocal duet that feels timeless and otherworldly.
Cherry Baby | Jenny Lewis | Joy'All — Breezy and sweet, with just the right hint of melancholy.
It’s a Mirror | Perfume Genius | It’s a Mirror — A hypnotic, minimal masterpiece that pulls you in with its eerie beauty.
Shovel | Deep Sea Diver | Shovel — A raw and driving track that digs deep and doesn’t let go.
Blue Left Hand | Oracle Sisters | Blue Left Hand — A surreal and dreamy soundscape that feels like a lucid dream.
What’s Left Of Me | Neal Francis | What’s Left Of Me — A soulful groove that’s equal parts heartbreak and swagger.
SHOW AND TELL | Benjamin Booker | LOWER — Bluesy, gritty, and full of raw emotion.
Ferry Lady | Panda Bear | Ferry Lady — A whimsical and looping ride through psychedelic nostalgia.
As Soon As You Can | Twin Shadow | As Soon As You Can — A track that straddles the past and future, carried by longing and urgency.
harvest sky | Oklou, underscores | harvest sky / obvious — Ethereal and expansive, this track floats between worlds.
I didn’t give up on you | Oklou | Galore — A tender yet powerful closer, leaving us suspended in the moment.

If you haven't listened to previous months:

Since you stuck around this far, you really earned your cover art outtakes:

December 2024: Winter’s Echoes

Nicholas Rhodes — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 15:43:06 GMT

Cover Art Illustrated using elements made in Midjourney v 6.1

Hi there,

The shortest, darkest days of the year are technically behind us, though it still feels like sunset sneaks up at 2 PM. There’s something oddly comforting about these winter weeks—huddling in warmth, reflecting on the past year, and pondering the new beginnings January promises.

Will this be your year? Will this be our year?

I often wonder: does the music in my life set the tone, or does my life have me seeking out specific sounds and rhythms? December’s playlist, which landed in your inbox on New Year’s Eve, felt like an answer to that question. Full of darker twists and turns, it was my companion as I wrapped 2024—a journey through slow, introspective dirges and meditative melodies, a sonic poem of mourning and hope.

This playlist invites you to continue that journey. Let these melodies carry you through quiet moments of reflection, ambitious new beginnings, and cozy evenings in between.

Let me know which tracks resonate with you, or share a song suggestion for January’s playlist—I love discovering new sounds.

Here’s to another year of music, connection, and possibility.

-Nicholas

Track List & Liner Notes:

Everyone's in Love with You | David Byrne | Look into the Eyeball
A whimsical and reflective start that gently nudges us to ponder our connections.
Same Shirt, Different Day | Tin Hat Trio | Book of Silk
A textured instrumental, perfect for pondering long, quiet afternoons.
Jockey Full Of Bourbon (2023 Remaster) | Tom Waits | Rain Dogs (2023 Remaster)
Gritty and evocative, this remaster feels like a companion to winter’s longest nights.
Orff-Schulwerk: Spielstücke für Xylophon, No. 15 | Gunild Keetman | Klassix for Kidz
A playful interlude that offers a glimmer of brightness.
Jacqueline | The Durutti Column | LC
Atmospheric guitars shimmer like glimpses of sunlight on a cold, overcast day.
Cure for Pain | Morphine | Cure for Pain
Sultry and brooding, this one invites deep introspection during the quieter moments.
Let Her Go Into The Darkness | Jonathan Richman | You Must Ask The Heart
Richman’s bittersweet storytelling offers a lighthearted touch of optimism.
Los Angeles Mood (Chromium Descensions) - Instrumental | Tom Waits | Night on Earth
A shadowy, cinematic instrumental perfect for imagining what lies ahead.
Sun Singer Theme | Paul Winter | Sun Singer
Warm and uplifting, it hints at brighter days on the horizon.
River Man | Nick Drake | Five Leaves Left
Drake’s gentle voice leads us through the beauty of quiet reflection.
Gun Dance | John Lurie | African Swim and Manny & Lo - Two Film Scores by John Lurie
Stirring and rhythmic, it nudges us toward movement and change.
A Life in East Poultney | Tin Hat Trio | Helium
Soft and contemplative, like curling up with a journal on a snowy day.
My Big Nurse | David Byrne | Everything That Happens Will Happen Today
Soothing and patient, Byrne reminds us that care is essential to renewal.
Telephone And Rubber Band - Remastered 2008 | Penguin Cafe Orchestra | Penguin Café Orchestra
A hypnotic cycle that mirrors the comforting repetition of winter rituals.
Night White | Erik Friedlander | Block Ice & Propane
Delicate strings paint a serene soundscape, like freshly fallen snow.
Little Acts Of Violence | Ray Bull | Little Acts Of Violence
Edgy and raw, this track ignites ambition amidst the stillness.
I Stay in Bed These Days Too Much | Salami Rose Joe Louis | Chapters of Zdenka
Dreamy and relatable—a gentle anthem for slower mornings.
Marmite (Fcukers Remix) | Porij | Marmite (Fcukers Remix)
Vibrant and surprising, adding a lively jolt of energy to the playlist.
Seasoning (feat. 2b.Frank) | Antony Szmierek | Seasoning
Smooth and groovy, a dose of warmth to shake off the chill.
the city | Sophia Urista | the city
Urista’s soulful voice captures the beauty and grit of urban winters.
I Love You, I'm Sorry | Gracie Abrams | The Secret of Us
Tender and confessional, perfect for quiet self-reflection.
Full Moon | The Black Ghosts | The Black Ghosts
Mystical and moody, capturing the magic of midwinter nights.
South London Forever | Florence + The Machine | High As Hope
Nostalgic and triumphant, Florence’s soaring voice honors the past.
little al | Frail Talk | Little Al Elemental Suite
Intimate and gentle, like rediscovering a lost memory.
little al (air sign) | Frail Talk | Little Al Elemental Suite
Expanding the tenderness of its predecessor, deepening the mood.
Sun Singer | Paul Winter | Sun Singer
Closing with warmth and hope—a promise of brighter days ahead.

If you haven't listened to previous months:

You made it way below the fold! Your reward is in an AI cover art outtakes album:

🎄🎶 Not Your Grandma's Holiday Mix 🎶🎄

Nicholas Rhodes — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:40:00 GMT

Hello, festive friends!

’Tis the season to share a holiday mixtape that's hopefully a refreshing change from the songs you've heard on endless loops while holiday shopping for your loved one's mandatory presents. It's a collection of festive tracks that I hope you’re not already tired of. Whether you’re braving holiday traffic or relaxing by the fireplace, this mix has something to keep your spirits bright.

This isn’t your typical holiday soundtrack; it’s packed with offbeat and unexpected gems like "Alone on Christmas Day" by Phoenix and "Purple Snowflakes" by Marvin Gaye. You’ll also find some surprises, like "christmas will break your heart" by LCD Soundsystem, and the hilariously irreverent "Try Not To Be a Cunt, It's Christmas" by Fascinating Aida.

If nostalgia’s your vibe, "Another Lonely Christmas" by Prince might strike a chord. For something whimsical, "Christmas In April" by Andrew Bird will brighten your day. And let’s not overlook "Fuck Christmas" by Eric Idle, which is as cheeky as it sounds.

I hope this mix brings a bit of joy and some unexpected laughs to your holiday season!

Happy shufflin' through the snow,
Nicholas

P.S. I know the title is a bad pun and that I’m sleighing a dead joke even further into the ground, but the title is factually accurate because I made the mix, and last time I checked, I’m not, in fact, your grandmother. 😄

Pro Tip: This mix is like a box of holiday chocolates—it’s best enjoyed on shuffle. Playing it straight through might feel a little... unwrapped. 🎁

🎧 Listen Here: Not Your Grandma’s Holiday Mix

If you haven't listened to previous months:

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November Mixtape – A Little Late, But Worth the Wait

Nicholas Rhodes — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 18:06:27 GMT

Cover Art Illustrated using elements made in Midjourney v 6.1 and composited using Photoshop v 26.1.0.

Yes, it’s mid-December, and the November mixtape is only just arriving. Chalk it up to the holiday whirlwind, a little too much turkey (and maybe one too many phony negronis), and the ever-elusive concept of time. But good music doesn’t abide by deadlines, and I’m thrilled to finally share what I’ve been listening to.

November’s mix is a cozy yet crisp collection, perfect for late-night fireside chats, long drives beneath winter skies, or simply relaxing with something warm in hand. As always, this mixtape captures the soundtrack of my month—a blend of old favorites, fresh discoveries, and everything in between.

Among the many new artists I explored, I also revisited some older tracks that felt like they belonged here. Two by Baxter Dury—"Shadow" and "Crowded Rooms"—felt inseparable, so both made the cut. Another standout is "Next to Normal" by Lucius, a track that’s simply fantastic. I also rediscovered "Olson" by Boards of Canada, a song I hadn’t listened to in years. It popped up on a mix and reminded me why I love their work so much.

"I’m With the Band" by The Black Keys featuring Beck earned its spot for being a stellar track and an unexpected collaboration. It also ties back to my Spotify Wrapped for 2024, where Beck was my most-listened-to artist—a surprise, but it made sense after I remembered his incredible Carnegie Hall performance last summer. He played backed by a full symphony, and afterward, I made a Beck-centric mix inspired by the performance that became my “work job” soundtrack for months. (Side note: My nephew used to call work “going to your work job” when he was little, and even though he’s grown out of it, I still find it funny enough to use.)

November also brought me to Kacey Musgraves, thanks to my friends in Lord Huron, who opened for her during two sold-out shows at Barclays Center. The performances were stunning, with incredible production and gorgeous lighting. Inspired (My days of documenting concerts are behind me, for now at least, but there is a shaky bootleg rip of the whole concert HERE which almost does the epicness of the lightshow justice and I’ve embedded one of the videos below), I dove into her music and included two tracks on this mix.

I know I’m late to the table, but November also introduced me to Kacey Musgraves, thanks to my friends in Lord Huron, who opened for her during two sold-out shows at Barclays Center. The performances were breathtaking, with stunning production and a mesmerizing light show. Although my concert-documenting days are behind me (for now, at least), there’s a shaky bootleg rip of the entire concert here that comes close to capturing the epicness of the visuals—and I’ve embedded one of the videos below for you to enjoy. Inspired, I dove into her music and ended up including two of her tracks on this mix.

"Too Good to Be True" from her most recent album, Deeper Well, is beautifully understated, blending vulnerability and strength. It feels both intimate and expansive, a perfect addition here. And of course, "Slow Burn"—quintessential Kacey. Its timeless quality hit especially hard as the year winds down. Revisiting it after the Barclays shows reminded me of her incredible storytelling and emotional depth.

Perfume Genius is an artist I return to often—delicate yet powerful. This month, their collaboration with Alan Sparhawk on "Point of Disgust" stood out. I played it on repeat throughout November; its emotional depth felt perfect for the mix.

Covers can be hit or miss, but Sleigh Bells’ version of "Where Did You Sleep Last Night" is fantastic. The song’s legacy runs deep, originating as a folk tune recorded by Doc Walsh in the 1940s and later gaining iconic status through Lead Belly’s haunting rendition. It’s been reinterpreted by countless artists—from Joan Baez and Dolly Parton to The Grateful Dead and Nirvana, whose MTV Unplugged performance cemented the song for my generation (video below, which, upon revisiting for this writing, has a surprisingly playful intro from Kurt Cobain, a figure I’ve always imagined as intensely serious). Sleigh Bells manages to honor the song’s storied history while putting their own unique spin on it.

Sofie Royer’s dreamy track "Babydoll" is a wistful gem that stood out for its nostalgic tone, adding a reflective layer to the mix.

Finally, Franc Moody’s funky yet introspective "Going Through the Motions" closes the mixtape. It captures that end-of-year energy—reflecting on the past while looking ahead. A perfect way to wrap up November and transition into December.

Listen to the FULL November 2024 Mix on Spotify.

Tracklist:

No Matter What I Do | Z Berg | Strange Darling (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
If You Must Leave | Arsun | Babe I Hear Thunder in Your Heart
Pool Party | Abby Sage | Pool Party
Break Me Down | Yukimi, Little Dragon | Break Me Down
Don’t Ever Change | Baby Dave | Monkey Brain
Hold On | Yellow Ostrich | The Mistress
I’m With The Band (feat. Beck) | The Black Keys, Beck | I’m With The Band (feat. Beck)
Beetlebugs | Nick Leng | Beetlebugs
What Can I Give You | Kate Bollinger | What Can I Give You
Shadow | Baxter Dury | I Thought I Was Better Than You
Crowded Rooms | Baxter Dury | I Thought I Was Better Than You
Next to Normal | Lucius | Second Nature
Too Good to Be True | Kacey Musgraves | Deeper Well: Deeper into the Well
Olson | Boards of Canada | Music Has The Right To Children
Feelin’ Fuzzy | Chinese American Bear | Wah!!!
Babydoll | Sofie Royer | Babydoll
Slow Burn | Kacey Musgraves | Golden Hour
Brecha | Tassia Reis | Topo da Minha Cabeça
Confessions | Sudan Archives | Athena
None of My Friends | Liz Lawrence | Pity Party
Point of Disgust | Perfume Genius, Alan Sparhawk | TRANSA
Where Did You Sleep Last Night | Sleigh Bells | Where Did You Sleep Last Night
Des Choses | Scratch Massive, Maud Geffray | Des Choses
Anti-Superstar | Haute & Freddy | Anti-Superstar
Wong Kar-wai | Say Lou Lou | Dust
C’est La Vie No.2 | Phosphorescent | C’est La Vie
Going Through the Motions | Franc Moody | Bloodlines

If you haven't listened to previous months:

October 2024 Playlist: Fall Sounds, Familiar Faces & Festive

Nicholas Rhodes — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 14:57:29 GMT

As always, this month's cover art was created by cutting and pasting the tracklist into mid-journey to see what it thinks this collection of songs looks like. Your guess is as good as mine as to how we got there from here or here from there.

October’s playlist is here, and it’s all about unexpected twists and contrasts. This month, I’ve curated a mix that swings from upbeat grooves to eerie, introspective sounds—perfect for those moody fall vibes.

We start strong with Purple Disco Machine’s “W.T.P” featuring Metronomy, setting a groovy tone before moving into the reflective space of “Conceited” by Lola Young. Lola’s new to me, but her sound hit me hard, so I had to include both “Conceited” and “Flicker of Light” this month, even though I was tempted to save one for later.

From there, we dive into “I Believe in Love” by Baba Stiltz and Okay Kaya—a meditative track that flows perfectly into Bahamas' “Working on My Guitar.” I first met Bahamas in 2012 at South by Southwest (Photo Gallery), and his twenty twenty-three album has really struck a chord with me, especially this track with its standout guitar solo that I just can’t get enough of.

As the playlist unfolds, you’ll hit St. Vincent’s “The Strangers” and FLOOR CRY’s haunting cover of “Happy Together.” Normally, I’m not big on covers for songs that are already perfect, but FLOOR CRY puts a completely new, moody spin on it. Speaking of new spins, Charli XCX’s “Mean Girls” with Julian Casablancas brings some serious The Voidz vibes—dark synths and Julian’s unmistakable vocals make it feel like a nod to his work with Daft Punk and The Strokes.

The Nation of Language track, "Weak In Your Light," is remixed by The Classixx (check out this photo gallery from a Halloween party I threw at Ella Lounge in October 2009, where they played alongside Gavin Royce of Walker & Royce, Lucas Walters (who just gave me this awesome hat last week), and the Boogie Brothers). This one brings back early NYC memories, with that familiar Classixx vibe perfect for a throwback moment.

Clairo’s “Love Songs” and Lola Young’s “Flicker of Light” (her second track on the playlist) bring things down a bit, creating an introspective moment before we dive into Will Dailey’s “Make Another Me.” Will’s someone I’ve known since my Boston days—we first met in the early 2000s on the set of a music video shoot for his old band, and I’ve kept an eye and an ear on since. With Juliana Hatfield’s haunting vocals, this song feels both nostalgic and beautifully new, stirring up memories of those Boston days and everything that’s come since.

As we wind down, Bryan Ferry’s “Johnny & Mary” (twenty twenty-three edit), Perfume Genius’s “All Around Me Now,” and Hot Hot Heat’s “Kid Who Stays in the Picture” keep the eclectic energy alive. And finally, the mixtape closes with Puddles Pity Party’s breathtaking cover of Billie Eilish’s “What Was I Made For?” A dear friend in LA recently introduced me to Puddles, and I’ve fallen in love with his voice and his ability to transform covers into something completely new. If you can, check out the video—it’s an experience in itself.

Give this mix a listen, and let me know which tracks pull you in hardest.

Oh yeah, and now for the mix tape itself ;)

Tracklist:

W.T.P (feat. Metronomy) | Purple Disco Machine, Metronomy | Paradise
Conceited | I Believe In Love | This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway
I Believe in Love | Baba Stiltz, Okay Kaya | I Believe In Love
Working On My Guitar | Bahamas | BOOTCUT
The Strangers | St. Vincent | Actor
Happy Together | FLOOR CRY | Covers
The Owl And The Tanager | Sufjan Stevens | All Delighted People
Mean Girls (feat. Julian Casablancas) | Charli XCX, Julian Casablancas | Brat and it’s completely different but also still brat
Weak In Your Light - Classixx Remix | Nation of Language, Classixx | Weak In Your Light (Classixx Remix)
Love Songs | Clairo | Love Songs
Flicker of Light | Lola Young | Flicker of Light
Make Another Me | Will Dailey, Juliana Hatfield | Make Another Me
Human Touch (feat. Bahamas) | Kathleen Edwards, Bahamas | Human Touch (feat. Bahamas)
The Actress | Goldie Boutilier | The Actress
Keeper | Hana Vu | Public Storage
Johnny & Mary - 2023 Edit | Bryan Ferry, Todd Terje | Retrospective: Selected Recordings 1973-2023
Kid Who Stays in the Picture | Hot Hot Heat | Kid Who Stays in the Picture - Single
All Around Me Now | Perfume Genius | National Anthem (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
What Was I Made For? | Puddles Pity Party | What Was I Made For?

If you haven't listened to previous months:

P.S. Congrats on making it this far down the scrolly scroll zone! As a reward, enjoy this photo of Ruthie & Me taken this morning by my newest friend:

September 2024 Playlist: New Tunes, Old Loves & A Halloween Flashback

Nicholas Rhodes — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 13:16:07 GMT

In an unexpected course of events we find ourselves on the eve of October. I spent the weekend at my cabin in the woods, and the leaves are turning. How did this happen? It feels like this year has flown by even faster than last year when I probably said the exact same thing.

Oh well, you're here for the music, not for my rambling about time and space.

This month's mix is a mishmash of new tunes (at least to me) and old favorites I keep coming back to. Speaking of time going in all directions, there have been a ton of re-releases of albums from 10 or more years ago. Some of these even come with new tracks, like the Perfume Genius re-release with three new songs, one of which made it onto this mix.

Earlier this month, my buddy Hermigervill was in town from Iceland with some other Icelandic musicians playing a showcase sponsored by Iceland Air at Pianos in the Lower East Side. I hadn't seen him since 2016 when I was last in Iceland (seriously, how many times can I say 'Iceland' in one paragraph?) covering Iceland Airwaves. That trip was amazing, and I got to photograph and interview 30 Icelandic musicians for a zine I never published. Maybe I should publish that now, before the 10th anniversary of not publishing it.

Anyway, there were a few bands at the showcase, one of them was hilariously silly (in a good way) and had great banter. Their name is Superserious, and based on their performance and music videos, the name is a joke because they're anything but serious. I included one of my favorite songs from their set, which has a ridiculously interesting video you can check out here.

Manu Chao recently released a weird song with Willie Nelson of all people. I didn't include that one, but I did include “Promiscuity,” which is one of my favorites from him. I also included a pretty straightforward cover of The Violent Femmes’ “Gone Daddy Gone” by by Gnarls Barkley from 2006 that I somehow missed.

Other favorites include Steven Klavier's new project P3rf3ct Strang3rs which for better worse is not about Balki Bartokomous, a new Emiliana Torrini (another Icelander!) track, a rebooted version of Kavinsky's “Nightcall” produced for the Paris Olympics, and some weird tracks I Shazamed throughout the month from an artist named googly eyes (no caps and a lot easier to google than expected).

Next up are two tracks that feel like they are riding The Dare vibes wave (though I didn’t fact check when these were released, so they could actually predate The Dare’s rise): a bit of magic from Sugar Pit and a really weird song about putting ketamine on your junk by Partiboi69 and Juicy Romance . Yes, you read that right.

If you're still somehow reading, hit reply and tell me what you're thinking about wearing as your Halloween costume in 32 days or just say hello and tell me what you’ve been up to! This reminds me of an absolutely incredible party I threw with Télépopmusik headlining and Sexy Lazer (another Icelander!), Kurt Uenala (who isn’t Icelandic, but lives there now), All Dom Wrong, and Kasper Bjørke — which was Halloween 10 years ago — I’m gonna have to sneak Télépopmusik seminal track “Breathe” into this mix before I hit send.

Tracklist:

Tiger | Maximum Balloon, Aku | Maximum Balloon
London Honda Nasty Taxi | Thoom | London Honda Nasty Taxi
Deer Teeth | Sega Bodega | Dennis
Pang | Caroline Polachek | Pang
galore | Oklou | Galore
Story of Love - Bonus Track | Perfume Genius | Too Bright - 10th Anniversary
Dressed In Dresden | The Hundred In The Hands | The Hundred In The Hands
Slew Test 2 | Kid Koala | You Don't Know - Ninja Cuts
The Missionary | Brothers Martin | Brothers Martin
Gone Daddy Gone / I Just Want to Make Love to You | Gnarls Barkley | St. Elsewhere
Antitaxi | La Femme | Psycho Tropical Berlin
Amanaemonesia | Chairlift | Something
Races | Barrie | 5K
Let's consume | superserious | Seriously?
Default | Django Django | Django Django
Promiscuity | Manu Chao | Próxima Estación: Esperanza
Run Away! - Edit | P3r5t3ct Strang3rs, Pauvro, Steven K | Run Away!
The Geeks Were Right | The Faint | Fascinatiion
Waiting - PAL Remix | Alice Boman, PAL | Skisser / Remixed
Breathe | Télépopmusik, Angela McCluskey | Genetic World
Everybody Hurts | R.E.M. | Automatic for the People
Let’s Keep Dancing - ACIDTONE Remix | Emiliana Torrini, ACIDTONE | Let's Keep Dancing (Remix)
Don’t Give Up | Kónguló, RAKEL | Don't Give Up
Day of Conquest | Temples | Day of Conquest
Set to Attack | Albert Hammond Jr. | Francis Trouble
St. Justice | Albert Hammond Jr. | AHJ
Where’s My Brain??? | The Lazy Eyes | SongBook
Amelia | Smallpools | Ghost Town Road
Nightcall | Kavinsky, Angèle, Phoenix | Nightcall
Internet Star | googly eyes | Starlet
Magic | Sugar Pit | Magic
K On My D + C | Partiboi69, Juicy Romance | Mutual Pleasure 002

If you haven't listened to previous months:

P.S. Congrats on making it this far down the scrolly scroll zone! As a reward, enjoy this photo of me from halloween 2016:

Endless Echoes: A Summer's Last Spin

Nicholas Rhodes — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 14:38:16 GMT

As we reach the close of our metaphorical summer, we're squeezing out the last few days of warmth into September, but let's be real—after Labor Day, the summer vibes start to fade.

This mix kicks off with a nod to that incredible Beck show I couldn’t stop raving about last month. I’ve woven in some of my favorite classics from Air (yes, I added them before they closed out the Olympics!), The Flaming Lips, Spoon, and Portishead, alongside tracks from some fresh new favorites like Fcukers, The Dare, and Sega Bodega. It also includes a new jammy from my friends YACHT — If you haven’t been keeping up with the release of their their new release, New Release, you can catch up on all their antics (including store fronts, great graphic design and other fun) by reading about it in reverse chronological order here.

Wherever you're headed this weekend, take this mix with you—whether it's in your headphones, your car, or blasting from your Bluetooth speaker at the beach. Safe travels!

Enjoy!

Give it a Spin:

Tracklist:

A Little Late, But Worth the Wait: July Mix is Here (Plus Summer Updates)

Nicholas Rhodes — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 01:32:25 GMT

I've been trying to get this mix to YOU (yes, you) since July, but life has been packed with amazing experiences. I can't complain, so I appreciate your patience in waiting to groove to my July mix until now. I just spent a wonderful weekend hosting my dear friends Dana & Buff at my little cabin in the woods. The weather was all over the place, swinging from thunderstorms to scorching heat and humidity. We kept cool with dips in Candlewood Lake and visits to my favorite flea market.

Earlier this month, I started The Artist's Way again, hoping to finally see it through with the help of my accountability buddies: Maddie (my sis), Kristy (one of my oldest friends from Boston and the Netherlands), and Jenny (a newer friend who inspires me with her ability to create despite having a full-time job).

If you’re not familiar with The Artist's Way, one of the weekly tasks is the Artist Date—a solo adventure to explore something that interests you. It’s about wooing your own consciousness, which is harder than it sounds. Last week, I treated myself to see Beck perform at Carnegie Hall with the Orchestra of St. Luke's, and it was truly magical. [insert joke about 30-plus years of practice, practice, practice here] Seeing one of my favorite artists nerding out on stage was a delight. His genuine banter included shout-outs to his dad for helping with the orchestral arrangements. Beck even joked about his midlife crisis involving full orchestra karaoke for his favorite Scott Walker songs. It was fantastic. If he does it again, you must go!

I was so inspired that I created a bonus playlist for you based on Beck's setlist from the tour (including studio recordings of the Scott Walker originals). Although there are no live recordings from this tour (yet), the playlist features the studio versions of the songs.

Oh, and here's the mix I put together throughout July. It’s a blend of old favorites from Sault (yes, two tracks back to back on purpose, because sometimes, two songs on an album belong together), Blood Orange, and Say Lou Lou, along with new tracks from Alex Winston, James Patterson, Washed Out, Clairo, Lykke Li, Wildermiss, and more.

Enjoy!

Give it a Spin:

July 2024 Mix Tape

Tracklist:

Waking Up | Washed Out | Notes from a Quiet Life
Why Why Why Why Why | SAULT | 5
Pink Sands | SAULT | 5
Back to You | St. Lucia | Back to You
Charmed | Σtella, Redinho | Up and Away
Sexy to Someone | Clairo | Sexy to Someone
Hiding | Ben Böhmer, Lykke Li | Hiding
How To Be A Cowboy | Bodysync, Ryan Hemsworth, Giraffage | NUTTY
Six Weeks, Nine Wells | Field Music | Six Weeks, Nine Wells
Midnight | Love Language, Holiday87, JONES | Midnight
Under My Skin (feat. AM!R) | James Patterson, AM!R | Under My Skin (feat. AM!R)
Champagne Coast | Blood Orange | Coastal Grooves
My Love | Metronomy, Nourished by Time | Posse EP Volume 2
Feel The Rush - Mr. G's Love Mantra | Tiga, Hudson Mohawke, Mr. G, Channel Tres | Feel The Rush (Mr. G's Love Mantra)
Hot One | Alex Winston | Bingo!
Strawberryfire | The Apples In Stereo | #1 Hits Explosion
W.I.F.I (Upper) | Wildermiss | New Year's EP (Uppers)
Wong Kar-wai | Say Lou Lou | Wong Kar-wai
My Type | Saint Motel | My Type EP
All the time / Tout le temps (feat. Yelle) | The Knocks, Yelle | All the time / Tout le temps (feat. Yelle)
It's like a dream | NEIL FRANCES | There is no Neil Frances
Shake | Sunflower Bean | Shake
Don't Let It Go | Beck | Morning Phase
Death Valley High | Orville Peck, Beck | Death Valley High

P.S. I'm a Spotify kinda guy, so these are Spotify links. You can use this free service to import the playlist into Apple Music if that's your jam: playlist-exchange.com

P.P.S. If you have a friend or foe who you think would like to join us here, please send them this link: https://nicholasrhodes.substack.com/s/monthly-playlists-by-nicholas-rhodes

If you haven't listened to previous months:

MIXTAPE: Crafted in June, perfect for an July Delivery

Nicholas Rhodes — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 19:39:25 GMT

I know, I know, I know … today is July 2nd, but as someone deeply immersed in music with a keen anthropological lens on how we experience it (and a super penchant for bull-shit), I believe it's our mood, not the date, that truly influences how music resonates with us.

It's hard to accept that it's already July, bringing 2025 ever closer. I have plenty of political commentary to share, especially with the Supreme Court winding us up before they wind themselves down for their summer break, but I’ll keep the focus on music here—not my takes on current events. For now, I'm settling into a summer rhythm on Fire Island, surrounded by overpriced ice cream cones and relentless sand—it’s pure and delightful.

The creative process for both the mixtape and its artwork flows naturally for me. The real hurdle is formatting everything for distribution through Substack and actually sending it off. So, while this mixtape has been ready for a while, I am just now releasing it as I begin exploring the fresh tracks of the new July mixtape, which is still taking shape.

Give it a Spin:

MIXTAPE: May I Remind You, It's June

Nicholas Rhodes — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 03:14:27 GMT

This week was supposed to be a breeze with just four days, but let me tell you — it felt like an eternity. So, I'll keep it brief. Can you believe it's already the end of May? 2024 is halfway over, and I'm amazed at what I've achieved, yet there's still so much to accomplish.

The good news is, before I hit the hay on this final day of May, I'm sending you this playlist to enjoy on your first day of June (or whenever you get to it)!

Give it a spin: May 2024’s Playlist.

Tracklist:

Apple | LA Priest | La Fusion
Blue Steel | Bot'Ox, Anna Jean | Babylon by Car
Giscard d'Estaing | Dombrance | Giscard d'Estaing
Macron | Dombrance, Laurent Bardainne | République électronique
The Story | Brandi Carlile | The Story
IDGAF | Sam Evian | You, Forever
"I know that face." | WILLOW | empathogen
Throw Some Ass | Sofi Tukker | Throw Some Ass
Get Real - Sounds Right Mix (feat. NATURE) | David Bowie, Brian Eno, NATURE | Get Real - Sounds Right Mix (feat. NATURE)
Dancing In Babylon | MGMT, Christine and the Queens | Loss Of Life
Succexy | Metric | Old World Underground, Where Are You Now?
The Cosmos | Sylvan Esso | The Cosmos
Toro | Remi Wolf | Toro / Alone in Miami
New London boy | Pet Shop Boys | Nonetheless
These Walls | Dua Lipa | Radical Optimism
Starburster | Fontaines D.C. | Starburster
Eve Babitz | YACHT | Eve Babitz
New World (Flow) | Joe Goddard, Fiorious | Moments Die
Walk Through Fire | Yannis & The Yaw, Tony Allen, Yannis Philippakis | Walk Through Fire
World_train | Bullion, Charlotte Adigéry | Affection
BODYGUARD | Beyoncé | COWBOY CARTER
L'AMOUR DE MA VIE [OVER NOW EXTEN...] | Billie Eilish | L'AMOUR DE MA VIE [OVER NOW EXTEN...]
Around the world in a day (feat. Moses S... | RM, Moses Sumney | Right Place, Wrong Person
Andromeda | Weyes Blood | Titanic Rising
Crossfade | GusGus | Mexico

If you haven't listened to previous months:

Memorial Day Playlist That You'll (Hate That You) Love!

Nicholas Rhodes — Fri, 24 May 2024 19:51:19 GMT

[Illustration by Nicholas Rhodes, created with Dall-E, Midjourney and Photoshop on May 24, 2024.]

Get ready to kick off your summer with an epic playlist packed with guilty pleasure hits! This playlist is filled with an smörgåsbord of songs you'll secretly love and might be embarrassed to admit. But hey, summer is all about letting loose and having fun, right?

So crank up the volume, hit shuffle, and let the good times roll!

I interrupt our usual monthly schedule to share my Guilty Pleasures Summer Playlist.

PRO TIP: Follow this playlist because I’ll add more terrible tunes all summer!

Updated and Better Than Ever!

This year, I've added close to 40 more songs, bringing the total to over 150+ songs. It's bigger, better, and guaranteed to keep you entertained all summer long.

As Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the summer season, it's the perfect time to dive into this treasure trove of guilty pleasures. From the catchy hooks of LEN's "Steal My Sunshine" to the infectious energy of The Dandy Warhols' "We Used To Be Friends," this playlist is designed to keep the party going all summer long.

Perfect for Every Summer Occasion

Picture yourself soaking up the sun, toes in the sand, and the sound of crashing waves in the background. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard BBQ, these guilty pleasure tunes will provide the ultimate soundtrack to your summer adventures. Let the nostalgic vibes of Violent Femmes' "Blister In The Sun" transport you to carefree days of the past. Groove to The Cranberries' dreamy "Dreams" and The La's' addictive "There She Goes," singing along without a care in the world. Rock out to Weezer's infectious "Buddy Holly" and James' laid-back anthem "Laid," or let loose with Modest Mouse's upbeat "Float On" and CAKE's delightfully quirky "Short Skirt / Long Jacket."

Shuffle for Maximum Fun

Remember, this playlist is best enjoyed on shuffle. Let the surprises unfold and relish in the guilty pleasure hits waiting to be rediscovered. With over 150+ songs, there’s always a new favorite around the corner.

If you haven't listened to previous months:

April Echoes: Sonic Surprises

Nicholas Rhodes — Wed, 01 May 2024 03:59:18 GMT

April really flew by! It's been a great month for new music with releases from some of my favorite artists like St. Vincent and Oneohtrix Point Never. I've also been turned onto a new favorite in Chappell Roan (video below and two tracks in this month’s playlist!!), and I'm honestly surprised at how much I'm enjoying the new Vampire Weekend album—I definitely didn't see that coming!

I'll keep my blabbing short and sweet. Without further ado, here's a playlist for you!

April 2024’s playlist delivered to you as a May Day Present:

It's Never Too Late to March Mix Tape

Nicholas Rhodes — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 16:48:56 GMT

It’s been some time since I shared my last mix. My silence wasn't due to a shortage of music; on the contrary, my playlists grew amidst a flurry of travel, work, and family moments.

SHAMELESS PLUG: Speaking of work, check out Artificially Intimidating, my weekly(ish) newsletter debunking the myth that AI is a looming threat and exploring the endlessly FUN possibilities it offers. Join us in changing the conversation from fear to fascination.

Now, as spring reveals its first leaves and blooms, seeing the daffodil bulbs I planted last year making their first of many appearances, stirring excitement for the season ahead, I find myself drawn back to sharing these music with you. Our shared reawakening is underscored by tunes that resonate with this time of renewal and growth.

On a slightly different note, I've recently been captivated by Braiding Sweetgrass,” a read that feels perfectly in tune with the essence of spring. This enlightening book interlaces the threads of science, botany, plant ecology, and Indigenous wisdom, resonating deeply with my own journey of discovery through experience and play rather than formal education. It's an enriching experience that enriches our understanding of the season’s spirit, urging us to forge a closer bond with the natural world. The chapter on the three sisters was particularly moving, inspiring me to dedicate a section of my garden to this symbiotic planting method.

This deep dive into the interconnectedness of life mirrors the diverse landscapes explored in our spring playlist. From the hopeful melodies of “Sun Keeps on Shining” by Almost Monday to the introspective vibes of “Real Love Baby” by Father John Misty, each track invites us to embrace the season's fresh beginnings. Let's allow the vibrant and refreshing tunes, like the lively “Australia” by The Shins and the thoughtful “Avant Gardener” by Courtney Barnett, to accompany us as we step into a period of growth and renewal, both in our gardens and in our playlists.

And without further a do, March 2024’s playlist (Yes, I know it’s currently April):

🎵Click HERE for my March 2024 Mixtape 🎵

Full Tracklist:

BONUS: My Top 100 Songs of 2023 (So Far)

Nicholas Rhodes — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 16:12:58 GMT

As always, this cover art was created by cutting and pasting the tracklist into Dall-E 3 to see what it thinks this collection of songs looks like. Your guess is as good as mine as to how we got there from here or here from there....

It's that time of year again! Spotify Wrapped has rolled out, revealing not just our own musical tastes but also giving us a sneak peek into what's been resonating with our friends. Yes, it's the annual audit of our audio adventures, and the results are in!

It turns out my most played artist is none other than the my friends, the soulful serenaders, Lord Huron, whose tunes turned any mundane moment into an epic journey.

Following closely behind, Bahamas brought their beach to our speakers, while Generationals had us grooving to an indie beat. Teleman's unique soundscape painted our days with vibrant sonic colors, and Róisín Murphy added that spice of experimental pop we I always need.

Editors Note: I'm secretly thankful that my Andre3000 binge came in after the Spotify Wrapped cut-off. Otherwise, my list might have been a 432Hz dreamscape on repeat! – imagine the surprise of finding Lord Huron dethroned by Andre3000's flute?

But keep an ear out — in honor of the hauntingly beautiful vibes of Andre3000's 432Hz release, we're crafting a special playlist. Stay tuned!

And without further a do, this year’s wrapped playlist:

🎵Click HERE for my top 100 spins Mixtape 🎵

Full Tracklist:

October Echoes: Better Late Than Never?

Nicholas Rhodes — Sun, 12 Nov 2023 23:30:03 GMT

So here we are, nearly halfway through November — racing toward the finish line that is also that start of 2024.

This mix? It's an ode to October's whimsy, a collection where each track is a crunchy leaf underfoot, from the stubborn sun of summer's end to the first frosty mornings that have us digging for gloves. November's narrative will come with its own playlist, but for now, we're keeping it snug and to the point.

Cue the rewind. With every press of play, we're back in October — an echo of amber tones in our playlist. Baxter Dury starts us off with the gravitas of "Too Heavy," and Lana Del Rey ascends with "Say Yes To Heaven," serenading us into an everlasting fall.

Big shoutouts are in order! Vacationer and Datarock are back, dropping their first beats in a good while. It's been over a decade since we caught Datarock's vibrant spectacle back at the Highline Ballroom in 2010 (oh, the memories! Check them out here).

And who could forget that epic trip to Iceland in 2012? We voyaged with Vacationer to document their Icelandic debut at the Iceland Airwaves music festival — a journey as mesmerizing as ordering a goat’s face at a drive-through window (relive that FULL adventure here).

So, welcome to the mix where it's always October and every song is a turnback to moments we’ve snapped and savored. Let the playlist play and the memories sway.

And without further a do, t̶h̶i̶s̶ last month’s playlist:

🎵Click HERE for my October Mixtape 🎵

Echoes of September: Sonic Postcards

Nicholas Rhodes — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 17:51:34 GMT

I hope this note finds you dancing into October with high spirits! It's that time again when I share a concoction of musical gems in my monthly mixtape, fashionably dispatched a tad late on October 1st. Please accept this symphonic selection of September, a month of travel, adventure, and rhythm!

🌍 Travel Diaries 🌍

September unfolded with a trip to London, where I had the privilege of being the keynote speaker at a conference, discussing the effects of generative AI on the event industry. London's energy and vibrancy were both invigorating and inspiring, painting each moment with a different hue of exhilaration.

Next stop was a whimsical weekend in Amsterdam, a city filled with charming canals and captivating architecture. The city embraced me with open arms, rain showers, and warm food at my friend’s new restaurant, Stack's Diner. There's nothing like good friends and good food to make any city feel like home.

Lastly, despite the relentless rain of NYC, I was fortunate to experience a day of outstanding live music at the not-rained-out Sound on Sound festival in Bridgeport, CT. With performances by my buds Lord Huron, Trey Anastasio and the formidable Red Hot Chili Peppers, the festival was nothing short of a dry sky miracle.

While you wouldn’t catch me paying to see the RHCPs, Flea can genuinely rock that bass, John Frusciante is a whammy wizard, Chad Smith's drumming is as remarkable as his resemblance to Will Ferrell, and Anthony Kiedis managed to pronounce at least two actual, discernible words!

🎵Click HERE for my September Mixtape 🎵

Alex Winston - Hot One
San Cisco - Too Much Time Together
Ball Park Music - It's Nice to Be Alive
Saint Motel - Cold Cold Man
Jaakko Eino Kalevi & Alma Jodorowsky - Palace In My Head
Miynt - A bite of papaya
Bahamas - Done Did Me No Good
Santigold - Shake
Mansionair & NoMBe - Guillotine
The Chemical Brothers & Beck - Skipping Like A Stone (feat. Beck) - Extended Mix
NEIL FRANCES & Raffaella - On the Lookout
Kowloon - Come Over
SAULT - Why Why Why Why Why
Duran Duran - The Chauffeur - 2009 Remaster
Mavis John - Use My Body
NEIL FRANCES - Dumb Love
Mindchatter - I Can Change
The Avalanches, MGMT & Johnny Marr - The Divine Chord
LISP - Good 2 Yourself
Biig Piig - Feels Right
Girl Ray - Show Me More
If you haven't listened to previous months:
- August 2023
- July 2023
- June 2023
- May 2023
- BONUS: Guilty Pleasures Summer Playlist
- April 2023
- March 2023
- February 2023
- January 2023
P.S. I'm a Spotify kind of guy, so these are Spotify links. You can use this free service to import the playlist into Apple Music if that's your jam: playlist-exchange.com

P.P.S. If you have a friend or foe who you think would like to join us here, please send them this link: https://nicholasrhodes.substack.com/s/monthly-playlists-by-nicholas-rhodes

Artificially Intimidating: Monthly Playlists by Nicholas Rhodes (AKA @NickyDigital)

The Playlist as Time Machine - April 2026 Playlist

The Ones I Go Way Back With

The Full-Circle Moment

A Few New Arrivals

Full Track List:

March 2026 Playlist: I'm Back, and So Is Everyone Else

FCUKERS: From My Block to Your Feed

Help(2): The Charity Comp You Need to Hear on Repeat

The Dare × Wet Leg

Full Track List:

12 Playlists. 12 Months. 0 Emails. Until Now.

March 2025

April 2025

May 2025

June 2025

July 2025

August 2025

September 2025

October 2025

November 2025

December 2025

January 2026

February 2026

FEBRUARY PLAYLIST: Not a Leap Year, Not On Time, Still a Vibe

FULL Track List:

Endless January: A Soundtrack for a Month That Won’t End (Or Already Did?)

December 2024: Winter’s Echoes

Track List & Liner Notes:

🎄🎶 Not Your Grandma's Holiday Mix 🎶🎄

November Mixtape – A Little Late, But Worth the Wait

Listen to the FULL November 2024 Mix on Spotify.

October 2024 Playlist: Fall Sounds, Familiar Faces & Festive

September 2024 Playlist: New Tunes, Old Loves & A Halloween Flashback

Endless Echoes: A Summer's Last Spin

Give it a Spin:

Tracklist:

A Little Late, But Worth the Wait: July Mix is Here (Plus Summer Updates)

Give it a Spin:

July 2024 Mix Tape

Tracklist:

MIXTAPE: Crafted in June, perfect for an July Delivery

Give it a Spin:

MIXTAPE: May I Remind You, It's June

Give it a spin: May 2024’s Playlist.

Tracklist:

Memorial Day Playlist That You'll (Hate That You) Love!

So crank up the volume, hit shuffle, and let the good times roll!

I interrupt our usual monthly schedule to share my Guilty Pleasures Summer Playlist.PRO TIP: Follow this playlist because I’ll add more terrible tunes all summer!

Updated and Better Than Ever!

Perfect for Every Summer Occasion

Shuffle for Maximum Fun

April Echoes: Sonic Surprises

It's Never Too Late to March Mix Tape

🎵Click HERE for my March 2024 Mixtape 🎵

BONUS: My Top 100 Songs of 2023 (So Far)

🎵Click HERE for my top 100 spins Mixtape 🎵

October Echoes: Better Late Than Never?

🎵Click HERE for my October Mixtape 🎵

Echoes of September: Sonic Postcards

🌍 Travel Diaries 🌍

🎵Click HERE for my September Mixtape 🎵

I interrupt our usual monthly schedule to share my Guilty Pleasures Summer Playlist.

PRO TIP: Follow this playlist because I’ll add more terrible tunes all summer!