Hey

Over the years, you’ve frequently used the phrase “Matt Music” to describe my unique song selections: which alternately include opera, 1930’s jazz, punk rock, poppy indie, classic folk—and just about everything in between.

I do love music, and am often on the lookout for something I’ve not heard before.

Usually it takes a little bit of effort to uncover new artists, but sometimes the music also finds me. (Like in 10th grade when a foreign exchange student staying with us accidentally left behind his 5 disc collection of The Velvet Underground’s greatest hits.)

Anyway, as you know, since late spring I’ve been making Spotify playlists for you. Doing so has been so much fun. Initially I thought it would be a monthly thing, but I’ve followed the music—and ended up with four in six months.

So here they are, all in one place, and with a song from each playlist shared in music video form.

Much love,

Matt

May 2022

This is the longest of the collections.

Lots of familiar artists on there, plus a few unexpected delights. “My God Has A Telephone” by The Flying Stars of Brooklyn NY was a surprise discovery this year.

The music video below is a collaboration between Daisy The Great and AJR: “Record Player.”

June & July 2022

The big find here was definitely “Lover, Lover, Lover” by Leonard Cohen. There’s an entire Common Sense podcast episode (from

That said, the “Zou Bisou Bisou” music video is just too much retro fun to resist!

July & August 2022

“Carol Brown” by Flight of the Conchords has probably gotten the most playtime.

However, the music video for “Stop the Clocks” by Donots (I’d never heard of them before this year, German band from 1990’s) is…unforgettable?

I want to stop watching, but I don’t want to stop watching. Someone help me, what’s happening in that video?

September to November 2022

There’s a definite classic vibe here. Dylan. Johnny Cash. Leonard Cohen. Nina Simone.

Even the modern songs have an old school sound, like “Shine Your Light on Me” by Natalie Bergman (new find!).

One caveat: “Sinnerman” by Nina was remixed by DJ Felix Da Housecat. Not sure that I’m a fan. But here it is.

The music video: “Nightshift” from Bruce Springsteen. Originally written and performed by the Commodores in 1985. But The Boss totally owns it.

That’s it for now.

But stay tuned: I’ll send you another playlist in late December.