Dive into the soulful strains of the mid-20th century, and you might find yourself enveloped in the poignant sounds of Mike and The Censations. Their song “There’s Nothing I Can Do About It” is a particularly stirring gem, emblematic of the era’s profound sense of heartache juxtaposed with musicality. It is a piece that touches the raw nerve of love’s complexities and the helplessness often felt in its throes.

Nina Simone’s rendition of “Feeling Good” is a tour de force in vocal dynamics and emotive expression, exuding an energy that is both powerful and deeply personal. The song, written by English composers Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the musical The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd, is certainly no stranger to covers. However, Simone’s 1965 version, infused with her distinct style and interpretation, is often regarded as the definitive take on this classic.

Bertrand Belin, a poet of the French chanson tradition, creates an atmospheric world with his composition “Douves”. This musical creation transcends the conventional and embraces the listener with a fusion of emotive lyrics and harmonious melody. “Douves,” a French term for ‘moat,’ bears the mark of Belin’s distinct style, intertwining a sense of loneliness with thoughtful introspection.

A tapestry of emotive melodies and soulful rhythms, “Time Moves Slow” by BADBADNOTGOOD stands out as a defining piece in their discography. An intersection of jazz, soul, and alternative styles, this track, featuring vocals by Sam Herring from Future Islands, captures the human experience of grappling with the passage of time.

“Sessa – Pele da Esfera” is an intricate piece by Brazilian artist Sessa, known for his distinct fusion of tropicalia and indie folk. The song, whose title translates to “Skin of the Sphere,” resonates with Sessa’s trademark harmonious blending of intricate guitar work, rich vocal textures, and evocative lyrics that offer a shared understanding of human experience.

“Pele da Esfera” provides an intimate auditory experience that thrives in its simplicity. Sessa’s melodic guitar rhythm provides a comfortable bed for his poignant vocals. The lyrics evoke a sense of shared unity, reflected in the title’s reference to a common sphere that envelops all of humanity. This musical composition fosters a connection with listeners, inviting them to journey inward and perceive the world as a shared space, a single sphere in which all of humanity exists.