1 song, 1 book, 1 album, 1 movie, 1 band:
I have a deep love for California. Its home to me, and it really is an incredibly unique place. Most people in Europe think of California as LA, but that is only a small fraction of the place. From the deserts of Death Valley, to the snowy Sierra Nevada Mountains, to San Francisco, to the amazing-ness of Big Sur, its an insanely diverse and spectacular place. However (like pretty much everywhere) it really can feel awful sometimes, and I am very glad that there is now a powerful anti-California song that really disproves EMA’s point. In no way did California make her boring, because in no way is EMA boring.
Jonathan Franzen’s - ‘Freedom’
I have never read a book so quickly as this. And its not a very short book. This ode to America, and our crazy (but also I think – endearing) concepts of “freedom” is pure literary perfection. I see my family in those characters, the internal struggle of environmentalists, the incredible struggle and relationships the characters go through is unbelievably moving and raw.
Kurt Vile – Smoke Ring for my Halo
My favourite album of this year so far. I never want to turn it off. As soon as the final notes of “Ghost Town” are over, I’m ready for “Baby’s Arms” again. The most amazing thing to me about the record is the completely consistent vibe. The arrangements are actually pretty diverse and inventive, but the vibe is always the same. The beautiful and almost resigned tone of his vocal is just so beautiful.
This documentary film was one of the most intense cinema experiences I have ever experienced. I saw it in a small theater in Brooklyn with my girlfriend this winter, and neither of us could really talk afterwards. It’s affecting in a way that stays with you for a long time. It makes you really want to DO something. It’s depressing for sure, but it also provides hope at the end of the tunnel.
One of my all-time favorite bands. Album after album, Jason Quever continues to amaze me with his songs. Their latest record “Fading Parade” is their best ever, and it’s one of the few bands out their whose consistency doesn’t impede on their ability to adapt and change, while remaining true to their vision. This band sounds like San Francisco in the best possible way.
WATERS release their debut single ‘For the One’ on September 12th, and you can stream it below.