My Five Song Playlist

“Gnossienne No. 4: 4ieme Gnossienne. Lent” - Erik Satie

The Gnossienne compositions represent Satie's experimental style Free Time, which he invented. The pieces float like a spring shower on top of a flowery field. Next to the Gymnopaedia, for which he is mostly known for, the Gnossienne are my favorite of Satie's work. The name 'Gnossienne' is also of Satie's own creation and is widely believed to be derived from the Greek word 'gnosis' or knowledge. This piece in particular calls to mind tiny raindrops falling on the still surface of a lake or the gentle movements of a forest awakening from winter.

“Wise Up” - Aimee Mann (Magnolia Original Film Soundtrack)

I was a kid when Magnolia came out and I was fortunate enough to have seen it early on. Paul Thomas Anderson's work has been an inspiration for me and my creative endeavors. 'Wise Up' was originally on the Jerry Maguire soundtrack, however it is better known for it's selection in the Magnolia OST. The lyrics to this song tell of someone who had high expectations out of life and is ultimately let down. They then try to drown their sorrows in alcohol but find no solace. Ultimately, the song concludes that the best philosophy is that of acceptance. I personally have had my own issues with expectations & acceptance and the lyrics hold virtually true with my own experiences. Having grown older and learned to “wise up”, I find that the last line “give up” is only a secession to letting go of one's ego.

“Mien” - Millionyoung (Amancer)

Minimalistic in approach, 'Mien' is indicative of Mike Diaz's Indietronica style. Each song is well crafted and evocative of some kind of yearning and existential longing. The title of this track refers to a person's look or manner in regards to mood and upon listening it's clear that this is a mood of sadness. Based on the lyrics, I feel that this song is about a long lost love and the emotions tied to the feelings of loss. I'm a huge fan of Diaz and his work as Millionyoung. His other tracks are just as emotional in spite of his use of the electronic medium.

“See Emily Play” - Pink Floyd (See Emily Play)

From the Syd Barrett days of Pink Floyd, 'See Emily Play' showcases the once colorful and psychedelic sound of the band's beginnings. The nonsensical lyrics tell of a young girl named Emily which may or may not have been inspired by a drug trip. It would not be surprising if that were the truth (although, this was later refuted by Barrett as publicity). The song is from the pre-Gilmour era of the band before Barrett's mental breakdown and, for me, is a little sad to listen to. This song and “Jugband Blues” all show the brilliance of Syd Barrett and highlight the sadness associated with his departure from the band. Although I like his solo work, I feel like Barrett was best suited with Pink Floyd. Then again, without him leaving the band it's not probable that they would have created their most prolific work in his absense.

“In This World” - Moby (18)

Moby was one of my first experiences into EDM. I received 'Play' as a gift from my twin brother who had lifted it from places unknown during his “delinquent years”. As an introverted youth, Moby's use of soulful piano samples and spiritually charged vocals spoke to a lot of the emotions I was going through. 'In This World' is a Spiritual that begs for God to not leave the singer alone “in this world”. As someone who has many times felt alone in the world, this track has always found a way to remind me that there is another presence to this life that is beyond human understanding. The blending of seemingly archaic musical styles with modern electronica exemplifies the artistry of Moby and his work.