Nick leads us off this week with two articles meant to start a conversation about our emotional relationship with music. A recent study shows that age has no affect on our ability to remember melodic themes. Another article summarizes an interview that Forbes did with Kesha about her need to create music to process her emotions. It’s an interesting chat.

Songs:

Dawn of Midi - “Io”

Clothing - “Kingdom”

Greg is up next with a recap of the Paris Olympics Opening Ceremonies, particularly the performance of the heavy metal band Gojira. Also, Greg digs into a new album by Kurt Rosenwinkel and The Next Step Band. The group had an eight-year residency at Smalls Jazz Club in Greenwich Village back in the 1990s, resulting in the album The Next Step. The new album, just released, is a live recording from Smalls and is absolutely incredible.

Songs:

Gojira - “Ah! Ça Ira (Live at the Opening Ceremonies of the 2024 Olympics)”

Kurt Rosenwinkel with The Next Step Band and Brad Mehldau - “Zhivago” Live at Smalls 1996

Kurt Rosenwinkel with The Next Step Band - “The Next Step” Live at Smalls 1996

Jay wraps things up this week with a “Three for Thursday.” We have new music from Charley Crockett, and Sturgill Simpson performing as Johnny Blue Skies. He also celebrates the life and contributions of John Mayall.

Charley Crockett - “Visions of Dallas”

Johnny Blue Skies, Sturgill Simpson - “Scooter Blues”

John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers -“Little Girl (Mono)”