It's the first mixtape of 2024, and the year is starting out strong. I've had some excellent tunes around my ears this month, and I've put the best together just for you.
I'm kicking off with the latest from Four Tet, and the laidback beats from Khruangbin. Thats followed by the gentle sounds of The Villagers, from Ireland and the inimitable Arab Strap from Scotland with Bliss.
The end of month saw the arrival of the new release from Future Islands and I chose 'Say Goodbye' as my track from the album.
Aayshalak is c2000 Bollywood tune that I heard in a restaurant at the start of January and stuck in my head all month, and Kota Bandung are an Indonesian Folk band from the Netherlands.
Then we're back in time a little; Billy Ocean with a disco classic, Al Barry with a reggae standard and Mick Ronson with some Glam before the timeless Tim Buckley followed by Blood Sweat and Tears.
The second half focuses more on the dancefloor; Coldcut, Jamie XX, Tatyana and Coffintexts and Ajukaja bring the beats.
I have an awesome cover of the Smiths from Schneider TM and then some fearsome rock and roll from Stuff favourites Sprints.
Another personal favourite is Sierra Farrell and their new track, Dollar Bill Bar before we finish up via Africa and the North-East of England with the beautiful Unthanks.
