Hatchet Reporters Patrick Rochelle and Emily Katz share their latest musical obsessions.
Patrick Rochelle
I think it goes without saying that we’ve all had a stressful finals week. But you always recover, and who could feel bad now that summer has finally arrived. So relax, feel better, and “let it shine”.
White Antelope: “Wild Mountain Thyme”
A side project of Fleet Foxes’ front man Robin Pecknold, White Antelope has a unique arsenal of sounds that draws from traditional Irish lyrics and melody that are simply beautiful.
The Morning Benders: “I Wan’na Be Like You (The Monkey Song)” (Jungle Book Cover)
Although I can’t say “The Jungle Book” was my favorite Disney movie growing up, this song has always stood out in my mind. The Benders make a classic track their own, creating a jungle-esque atmosphere with a commanding percussion section that carries the song to its conclusion. I guess some people never get tired of monkeying around.
Emily Katz
Katy Perry: “California Gurls ft. Snoop Dogg”
I never thought I would publicly admit to listening – let alone, enjoying – a Katy Perry song, but this is a guaranteed summer anthem. Rumored to be a response to Jay-Z’s ubiquitous “Empire State of Mind”, “California Gurls” reps Cali and its signature “daisy dukes” in a way that must make Jessica Simpson so bitter.
Chiddy Bang is at the forefront of the burgeoning indie-rap genre. They’ve sampled everyone from Bell and Sebastian to Passion Pit and MGMT. This time they sample Hot Chip and, needless to say, the song is as good as one would hope it would be.
Ratatat: “Party with Children”
Ratatat recently started giving away this track from their newest LP, and while it’s more of the same sound, that’s never bad with Ratatat. Yes, the lyrics are sparse, but the eclectic mix of instrumentals more than makes up for it. Great reading music for this bustling finals time!
