My new friend Mike asked me a very simple question the other day – “Do you have any suggestions for some good tunes?” This question may seem simple at a glance, but this is a loaded question for any music lover.

I couldn’t just spout off a couple songs off the top of my head – what kind of music blogger would I be? An email wouldn’t suffice either. There had to be information and explanations – but most importantly, a playlist so that he could listen to what I’ve been listening to, not just read about it.

Those close to me know that this question will lead to a sort of musical training package. A playlist, followed by a detailed email about each track or album and sometimes even fancy home-made cover art.

Mike told me the suggestions were a hit, so I thought, why not share! Here is the detailed email followed by a link to the playlist. Hope you like it! Let me know what you think!

Our email went something like this:

Mike:
So, rumour has it you have a little place on the web called toe jam mondays…
Maybe it’s cliche, but I would like to know if you have any current music suggestions (since you’re the expert and all!)

Monica:
you are right sir! I specialize in toe jam. I mean music.

But you just opened a can of worms. Usually when someone asks what i’m listening to, they end up with a mix tape or 5. I have to wait till I’m at my library to list some top album picks so far, but I can make you a digital mix tape if you so desire!

Mike:
Sounds good!

Monica:
ok good. here we go.

Sloan – Double Cross: released this year. Never been a huge Sloan fan, but this album really grew on me. I put Unkind on your mix but Beverley Terrace is good too.

Arctic Monkeys – Suck it and See: I feel like this album has gone back to their roots. Super catchy songs. The opening trifecta is gold.

Handsome Furs – Sound Kapital: Heard this album streamed, catchy – some songs are better than others, but Serve the People is a definite playlist must for a party.

Black Lips – Arabia Mountain: Newest release and one of their best. Whole album is good. Great 60s garage rock sound

Cat’s Eyes – Cat’s Eyes: This one grew on me, but it gets better every time. Interesting fact, the girl used to be an opera singer

I’m From Barcelona – Forever Today: Nothing new or exciting, but catchy and summery and will be a must for any pool party.

Foster the People – Torches: This album surprised me. Pumped up Kicks was starting to get on my nerves and almost put them in the “one hit wonder” box, but they surprised me with this one.

Death Cab for Cutie – Codes and Keys: Enough said. Love.

Wildlife – Strike Hard, Young Diamond: Toronto boys who I saw by accident, but totally won me over with their live show and energy. Great build-ups. Especially Killing for Fun.

The Wooden Sky – If I don’t Come Home: This is an old album, but a must for any cottage trip. Chill and great from beginning to end. Definite crowd pleaser.

Bad Veins – Bad Veins: Another old one, but still great. You’ll have a new favourite song with every listen.

The Rural Alberta Advantage – Departing: I’m a huge fan of all of their albums. If you like them, you’ll love everything they’ve put out.

Raphael Saadiq – Stone Rollin’: Remember the group Toni, Tony, Tone? he was a Tony….or maybe a Toni. Anyway, great album with a retro sound.

The Vaccines – What did You Expect From the Vaccines?: They’re not breaking any musical barriers, but what they do, they do it well. Norgaard is a great dance-y track.

Greg Allman – Low Country Blues: Good chill album. Its an Allman Brother covering blues songs, what else can I say?

Dan Auerbach – Keep It Hid: Another older one. Kind of obvious if you like the Black Keys you’ll like this one, but he tones it down on a couple tracks – Whispered Words is a good one.

Mando Diao – Give Me Fire: I don’t know why these Swedes aren’t huge. They’ve put out like 3 albums all with great tracks. This is their third release, but their 2002 release Bring ‘Em In is a must.

Northcote – Borrowed Chords, Tired Eyes: Vancouver native. This guy is a cottage must too.
 
 

So there you have it. A personalized Toe Jams playlist and email.

Click HERE to download the mix.

Happy Listening!
 
* If you are a member or manager of the above band and you would like your track removed, please contact us and we will swiftly oblige. Fans new or old please support these bands by using your coffee money to buy their records.