Richardine Bartee
This 5@5 morning playlist consists of Willie Breeding, Genra, Father Pocket, and more.
Des Rocs – Use to the Darkness (Submission)
New York-native French singer, Des Rocs, packages what it feels like to be in the dark, and become used to it. To that end, I think most of us have been to the dark place, where we feel lost and perhaps, frustrated. We slip into these places. Like most charting music, it speaks of a depressing reality, but the intent behind its production would make you feel otherwise. We’ll dance and belt out the lyrics as if everything is alright.
Willie Breeding – Goodbye to All of That (Submission)
Every morning, when the sun comes out, I intend to have happy thoughts. Luckily, there’s a calming and comedic sensibility to Willie Breeding’s ‘Goodbye to All of That’. His line about cracking an Old English, or a forty ounce, is hilarious. Why? It’s not something that I’d like to hear in an Indie Rock song that sounds as cheerful as it does. It is the second single from the Indie Rock singer’s debut solo album: Big Sky. According to the information received, Breedings was forced to move out of Brooklyn, and head back South. Unfortunately, he fell in love at that life-changing time. Thus, the song reflects the bittersweet moment.
Lady Moon & The Eclipse – Star Gazing (Submission)
Regardless of how or when you tend to listen to music, there’s music that pairs better with a specific time of day. ‘Star Gazing’ is a song best heard as the sun rises. It has a warm feeling that feels natural and positive. At most, it will feel like you’ve travelled to a planet of peace, away from your earthling worries. In a way (sonically), they remind me of (now defunct) THEESatisfaction. As far as the visual, it takes me back to Erykah Badu’s iconic ‘Bag Lady’. The choreography is awesome, too. The women appear to be free and loving life. How could anyone hate on that? It’s an honour to see that Lady Moon & The Eclipse only submitted to GRUNGECAKE through the platform I use. I appreciate it. Watch the official video for ‘Star Gazing’ below. It is a fantastic look into interracial relationships.
The New Respects – Freedom (Submission)
There’s a burst of energy that emits as soon as The New Respects track ‘Freedom’ comes on. As if your suppression of yesterday is gone, and you are unchained. As much as people may have preached the following to you in your life, freedom is more than a state of mind. It is economic leverage, living in a neighbourhood where you don’t have to watch your back at all times. Freedom, also, is being educated on how to (spark) change what’s around you and what may benefit others (who might be less fortunate than you are) in the long run. Songs like theirs will wake you up from your slumber.
Father Pocket – Puppet (Submission)
Have you ever been in an imbalanced relationship where you may have felt like a puppet? Unfortunately, I have dated the kind of man who might have wanted to control me, but I’ve always been blessed to get out of the relationship before it happened. Finding the strength within yourself—and acted on it—is imperative. Father Pocket, a Dominican musician whose real name appears to be Larry Contreras, sings about being on the strings of his lover. ‘Puppet’ should a wakeup call to you this morning.
Genra – Sayonara (Submission)
We are at the end of May. Nonetheless, it still feels like a crisp September morning in New York City. Genra’s boom-bap track is about maintaining success, and wondering what he would be if he stayed on course. ‘Sayonara’ is the sort of track that I’d play when I am on the way to handle business, going to school, or walking to the gym. The Oakland, California rapper’s lyrical delivery is admirable, as his vocal control and rhythm show his skillset. If you’re a fan of Brooklyn rapper Skyzoo, you may like Genra’s music. Check out ‘Sayonara’ below.
Matthew and the Arrogant Sea – Little Things (Submission) (Bonus)
Alarm sounds are essential to how irritated you may become as you are transitioning from sleep to being awake. ‘Little Things’ has the right beat-per-minute-count for that moment. I wouldn’t have it too loud, though. If it is louder than intended, it would be for another playlist. Check out the latest from Denton, Texas band MATAS (Matthew and the Arrogant Sea) below.
