The first play list for the new site is brought to you by my three day weekend. Time to de-stress and unwind. If you’re fortunate enough to live in a state that’s recreationally legal, spark away and enjoy. If you’re not, then you might have to just pretend.

1. BØRNS – 10,000 Emerald Pools

•  Album: Dopamine
• Year: 2014

The bass in this song is straightforward but louder than your typical bass hook. It’s epic in the context of the song as it bumps you down, down, down into sticky gooey emerald pools. Good way to start off the list.

2. Nothing But Thieves – If I Get High

• Album: Nothing But Thieves
• Year: 2015

This UK rock group is my current favorite band. It’s likely you’ll see them on several upcoming playlists. I love this live rendition.

3. alt-J – Tessellate

• Album: An Awesome Wave
• Year: 2012

The vibe in this song is steady and floats. The video for the song creates just enough tension to not float completely away.

4. Marian Hill – Down

• Album: Act One
• Year: 2016

This song’s beauty is in its simplicity. Sweet and sad at the same time.

5. Glass Animals – Gooey

• Album: Zaba
• Year: 2014

Every single sound in this song is laid out exquisitely. Somehow you end up feeling like you’re melting, without actually turning into a useless puddle. Lyrically it’s top notch as well. It’s been a long time since I’ve heard this much innuendo so expertly packed into one song.

6. Chet Faker – Gold

• Album: Built on Glass
• Year: 2014

After playing out and releasing a little bit of tension in the songs above, this one brings us back to happy place. Feeling the love, it’s made of gold! Speaking of love, I think I’m in the love with the skater girls in this video. Especially the one in green!

7. The Lumineers – Angela

• Album: Cleopatra
• Year: 2016

Coming toward the finish line in the list, it’s time to get a little folksy. This Lumineers song talks about getting away from it all. Angela needs some stress relief too!

8. Iron & Wine – Flightless Bird, American Mouth

• Album: The Shepherd’s Dog
• Year: 2007

This song is a little older. And despite the fact that is was featured heavily in that teen movie series about sparkly vampires, it’s still a great song. Another lyrically great tune that turns underdogs into heroes.

9. Paulo Nutini – Numpty

• Album: Caustic Love
• Year: 2014

Not all Twitch gaming streamers listen to crap techno music. My favorite WoW tank’s stream is where I found this gem. Such a soulful voice!

10. Mt. Joy – Silver Lining

• Album: Silver Lining – Single
• Year: 2017

Lastly, I’m rounding out the list with new find. Happy and upbeat, just enough folksy and just enough rock, it’s a great way to end the list.