Riffs To Listen To 002
- Finley Taylor
- Sep 2
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 6
As August comes to an end, and the cold, grey days creep back into our lives, this volume of ‘Riffs To Listen To’ incorporates a variety of genres to reminisce on the summer, and perhaps prepare us for whatever the upcoming seasons have in store.
Girl U Want: DEVO
An older tune to start things off, ‘Girl U Want’ was released in 1980 by American band, ‘DEVO’. A mix of new-wave, synth-pop, and upbeat electronic foundations, few songs get the limbs moving quicker than this. Originating from Akron, Ohio, the group has always been set on doing its own thing, never being afraid to go against the status quo. The quirky nature of ‘DEVO’ is evident even in their name, taken from the concept of de-evolution, an idea that mankind has started to regress instead of evolve. So, if you want a song that is quirky, fun, and from a band many could deem slightly batshit, there are none that I could recommend more.
Hang Tight Honey: Lainey Wilson
If you find yourself currently unaffected by the Country music craze, firstly, where have you been, and secondly, Lainey Wilson is more than enough to make you see sense. Upbeat, incredibly catchy, and delectably American, ‘Hang Tight Honey’ is the next piece of art that deserves to be in your Spotify Wrapped this year. The perfect blend of electric vs acoustic, and honky- tonk enough for you to be searching for your nearest rodeo (it might be a bit far), what better way is there to combat the end of summer blues?
Without Eyes: Brooks Nielsen and Sierra Ferrell
Perhaps one of the most beautiful songs I’ve heard in my life, ‘Without Eyes’ is a culmination of Western tropes, Indie Alternative, and every love song that has brought a tear to your eye. Best known for his work as the lead singer of ‘The Growlers’, Brooks Nielsen’s captivating, scratchy vocals are perfectly accompanied by Sierra Ferrell’s charming Country backing vocals, and together, I can almost guarantee your emotions will be touched in every way. It’s rare to come across a song that hits all the right spots so effortlessly, so for this not to be included would be nothing short of a scandal.
Woman to Woman: Joe Cocker
The type of masterpiece where you’d find your hips swaying as you’re cooking dinner with a glass of wine, Joe Cocker’s ‘Woman to Woman’ is undoubtedly one of the greatest pieces of Soul music ever recorded. Any Hip-Hop fan will recognise the backing of the song immediately (no spoilers here), but the song itself seems to speak to the very fabric of your existence, hooking you instantly. One of the very few songs that uplifts any mood, regardless of where you find yourself listening, this absolute classic cements itself as one of the greatest for both its time and genre.
Setting Sun: The Chemical Brothers
The creators of some of the most iconic, legendary electronic music to ever reach our ears, ‘The Chemical Brothers’ are the definition of music royalty. Released in 1996, it topped the UK singles chart immediately, a testament to both the pair’s ability and to the soon-to-be legendary status of the song. Whether you’re relaxing in the comfort of your own home or out walking on one of the rainy days that are undoubtedly on the horizon, this tune is simply a must-have for the upcoming seasons.
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