Each month we ask a member of the community to tell us what music they’ve been digging.
Lately I’ve been listening more like a student than a casual fan. Not in a “music feels like work” kind of way, but more like a quiet study. Writing for Sal Valentinetti, whose voice is pure classic vibes, has pulled me deep into jazz and bossa nova. The rhythm and unexpected chords have been opening new doors in how I write. But when I need to tap back into the spark that lit [Winn’s 2025 sophomore album] Freeze Frame, I return to the classics that shaped it: Lungs by Florence + the Machine, anything by Fleetwood Mac (especially Rumors and their self-titled album), and Coldplay’s entire discography. Those artists and others helped me and [producer] A. J. Yorio build a haunting, melodic, and emotive world for that album.
I don’t replay the same songs often. I’m always taking notes, always scanning for new realizations in sound. But recently I’ve been drawn to Stephen Sanchez and his fresh take on timeless styles. I’ve also found a whole new appreciation for John Legend now that I understand more about jazz and non-rock traditions. Laufey, of course, is a master of the modern classic, and [singer-songwriter] aron! has been a bright, joyful spark on my playlists. I’ve noticed that happier music feels really good, which I didn’t realize a few months ago!
This article appears in August 2025.
