Benjamin KasselFeb 16, 20224 min read"After the Storm" is a dreamy combo of neo soul and P-FunkKali Uchis and Tyler, the Creator provide the former feeling, while the latter comes from the space bassist, Bootsy Collins himself.
Benjamin KasselJan 29, 20223 min readOn the soul masterpiece that is "Midnight Train to Georgia"Gladys Knight & the Pips' classic combines outstanding vocals with a compelling lyrical narrative that has a surprising twist in its chorus.
Benjamin KasselJan 7, 20223 min read"Dreams" displays its title being (somewhat) realizedA lighter entry early in the Cranberries' discography kept me in the right mood when I heard it for the first time today. Thank you,...
Benjamin KasselDec 1, 20213 min read"Dreams" demonstrates the power of recurrenceGorgon City utilize mediated repetition — particularly of a single element — to create and reinforce their track's titular aura.
Benjamin KasselNov 1, 20214 min read"Fantasy" is mid-90s pop bliss with an early 80s new wave skeletonThe path between Talking Heads and Mariah Carey is surprisingly straight. And oh, isn't it fitting to talk about Mariah today of all days?
Benjamin KasselOct 26, 20214 min read"Adorn" is classy 10s R&B at its bestMiguel's most successful song is a modern configuration of the genre, with an old-fashioned word at its core.
Benjamin KasselOct 17, 20214 min read"Hyperballad" stands the test of time... and honestly, we've yet to reach its timeA quarter-century after its release, Björk's ethereal dream sequence song still sounds like it's ahead of our current musical era.
Benjamin KasselSep 24, 20214 min readMy thoughts on one of my father's favorite songs, "I Think I Love You"Happy birthday, Dad. Thanks for all your love, guidance, and CDs.
Benjamin KasselSep 17, 20215 min readOn "Love Rears Its Ugly Head," its opening sample, and the reading they provide togetherA standout track of the early 90s is even more intriguing when one applies the context of its introduction to the rest of the track.