Electronic pop outfit Sylvan Esso has been one of our favorite acts over the years. Earlier this year, they put out the album "What Now." But here's a track that's been stuck in our brains for a while called "Coffee," because who can resist ending a dinner party with a great pun.
Patty Schemel was the longtime drummer for the band Hole and a slew of other rock, grunge, and indie bands. Her new memoir "Hit So Hard" delves deep into her relationship with Courtney Love and Kurt Cobain, her addiction and homelessness, and her eventual recovery. Let Patty set the mood of your next get together with some tasty drum beats.
Mackenzie Scott released her first album under the moniker Torres when she was still in college. Her personal lyrics and raw vocals continue to earn her critical acclaim. She's just released her third album of emotional electronica, called "Three Futures." She mixes up a playlist with songs by Gal Costa, Portishead, and more to give you some slinky and "kinda kinky" songs for your next party.
Back in the early '80s, four lanky Brits calling themselves Depeche Mode, armed only with primitive synthesizers, started churning out pop hits. Nearly 40 years later they've sold over 100 million albums and are one of the most popular live acts on Earth. This weekend they'll become the first band ever to play four consecutive sold-out shows at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. Rico spoke to Mode's main songwriter, Martin Gore, and his fellow founding member, Andy Fletcher, about their synth beginnings, their shift to more political music, and the worst night of their musical lives.
Each week you send us your questions about how to behave, and here to answer them this week is Shania Twain. Hailed as the queen of country music, she is one of the biggest selling female country artists of all time. Her new album, titled "NOW," is her first in nearly 15 years. Listen as she talks about her return to music, before helping our listeners with concert etiquette and more.
Future Islands is a Baltimore-based band that's known for synth-driven pop and dark lyrics. Back in 2014, Pitchfork named their song, "Seasons (Waiting On You)," the best of the year. They're on tour now supporting a new album called "The Far Field." Hear their playlist for pets and friends alike... and enjoy some bonus audio!
Chris Taylor, bassist of the indie rock band and cookbook author, shared a few song *and* recipe selections for your next dinner party.
Punk rock darling Ted Leo has been churning out anthemic, politically conscious music since the '80s, including six LP's with his acclaimed band Ted Leo and the Pharmacists. This month, he releases his first solo album in 10 years called, "The Hanged Man." Listen as the musician picks songs by Michel Pagliaro, Steel Pulse, and more, for the soundtrack to your next politically aware party.
Musician and singer-songwriter Warren Haynes is perhaps best-known as the longtime guitarist in the Allman Brothers Band. He's also a founding member of the jam band, Gov't Mule, who recently released their 10th studio album, 'Revolution Come... Revolution Go.' Listen as he tells a story of sharing a tour bus from New York City to Denver with Dave Grohl's mom, Virginia, shortly after the tragedy.
Laetitia Tamko, better known by her stage name, Vagabon, gives us a playlist that is both low-key and powerful, featuring Solange, Christine and the Queens, and more.