TRACK 1: SUNSTROKE

SUNSTROKE by Joy Zipper.

This is the first track of the 2006 mix.

I know very little about Joy Zipper. I've only heard one album, which I got from my sister a little over a year ago. I like it. It sounds like it was recorded by big Souvlaki or Loveless fans. But you'll have to look elsewhere for in depth comparative analysis.

Just like the blog itself, this first track finds the holiday mix just warming up. To my ears it sounds a little like an orchestra getting in tune. That's the intended effect anyway. Also, it leads really well into Track 2, but on that you'll just have to take my word for a couple days.

And even though it doesn't really stand alone as a song, you'll find it fits the mood of the rest of the mix very well. What is that mood? We'll be ruminating on that over the next couple of weeks (it is a blog after all), but I think there are two particular facts that dominate this year's sound. First, I've accumulated a big big stack of beautiful and wonderful tunes that I haven't had a chance to share with you, dear Christmas CD recipients, because generally those mixes stay poppy and upbeat. These songs, on the other hand, tend to be quieter and more contemplative.

Second, blessed though I am (did I mention Amy and I got engaged?), it's been a long exhausting year. Particularly having had to give up sports, I've been getting older a lot this year! I think this will come through soon enough in the songs, if not immediately.

So here's the first track, and don't forget to check back Monday for more!

LISTEN.

(If you have any trouble downloading, shoot me an email!)

Photo: Late afternoon at the office, 2004.