One feature of Paladin Sound is the weekly playlist. This will typically consist of around 12 songs, although some weeks might be longer or shorter. This playlist will be broadcast live through FUNC Radio on the live 365 app Mondays at 4 as well. The commentary on that will be very similar in nature to this. This first playlist is meant to be a representation of the variety of music that will typically be played. Some weeks might have a consistent vibe or theme, while others will be more varied.
- Tame Impala: “Let It Happen”
The opener to Tame Impala’s 2015 record Currents, this track is one of the greatest album openers of all time. This song truly feels like a journey, ending in a completely different place than it begins and each part feeling uniquely rewarding. This almost 8-minute cut is worth every second.
- Queens of the Stone Age: “In the Fade”
Queens of the Stone Age are a personal favorite band of mine. I feel like any of their records or songs would be a great starting point, and each has something truly unique to offer. “In the Fade” is possibly the song that has had the biggest impact on me, which is why it is here on my first playlist.
- Radiohead: “Knives Out”
Early 2000’s Radiohead was a band at a crossroads. 2000’s Kid A almost fully abandoned their alternative rock sound, and on Amnesiac they found themselves between electronic soundscapes and alternative rock. Knives Out is the band finding that perfect balance between the traditional and the abstract.
- The White Stripes: “Apple Blossom”
The White Stripes are mostly known for “Seven Nation Army” and the Elephant and White Blood Cells release cycles, but I feel that De Stijl represents a creative high point for Jack and Meg White. I have always enjoyed the more acoustic cuts found on this record, with Apple Blossom being the clear standout.
- Wilco: “War on War”
Wilco’s Yankee Hotel Foxtrot is one of the best records of the 2000’s. Coming from a rural background, I have always felt a deep connection to the mix of Americana and indie influences that could be found across this album. I feel that “War on War” is especially representative of the times that this record was released in.
- Lana Del Rey: “NFR!”
NFR! as a record is the turning point in Lana Del Rey’s career; it was at this moment in the summer of 2019 that she won over the critics and created a true modern classic. This song in particular feels like a sad ballad ripped straight out of the 1970’s in the best way possible. It is here that Lana establishes herself as a contender for her generation’s voice.
- Arcade Fire: “The Suburbs”
“The Suburbs” was the first song that I ever listened to from Arcade Fire. I have always loved the song, but as I have gotten older, I have begun to finally understand what this song means. It, along with the rest of its album, really focus in on how the places we grow up in change over time, and the impact that this has on us emotionally.
- The Strokes: “Last Nite”
Is This It is one of the defining records of the 2000’s. Indie rock gained a new sense of cool with this record: leather jackets and sunglasses were the vibe being ushered in. The record has continued to gain massive acclaim over the years, with “Last Nite” being a major highlight.
- Interpol: “Obstacle 1”
No band quite captures the sense of sadness that is associated with the aftermath of 9/11 quite like Interpol did on their debut record. Cold and bleak, Turn on the Bright Lights is one of the saddest records of all time, a true classic of post-punk that revived the genre. “Obstacle 1” is possible the saddest point on the record, a truly haunting track.
- Nirvana: “Dumb”
Nirvana’s In Utero was the record that got me into music. If I never discovered it, I probably wouldn’t be writing this section today. It is truly a one-of-a-kind record, the first to ever encourage me to dig deeper, and “Dumb” is the track that really encouraged this deeper purpose in me.
- DJ Shadow: “Midnight in a Perfect World”
DJ Shadow’s debut record Endtroducing… is one of the most impressive records of all time. Made entirely of samples, this 1996 album creates a truly unique atmosphere. It is one of my favorite records of all time, one that I listen to on a regular basis. “Midnight in a Perfect World” is really the defining song of the record.
- Fleet Foxes: “Blue Ridge Mountains”
Fleet Foxes are my favorite band of all time, and I knew that I would be including them on this playlist. I feel that “Blue Ridge Mountains” best represents their sound and is the perfect starting point for their music. It is also a song that I have listened to a lot since arriving at Furman in the fall.
My goal with these playlists and the radio show is to highlight the music that I listen to and try and expose people to new artists. I hope that everyone who chooses to check out the playlist can find a new song or artist to delve deeper into. Thank you for checking out this first playlist, and check weekly for new selections.