PLAYLIST #1

Smells Like Teen Spirit - Patti Smith

When I first discovered that Patti Smith had covered the Nirvana classic, I had no idea that it would become so important to me. I guess that by 2007, the seminal anthem had lost its anti-establishment roots and was in need of a new interpretation. The arrangement has a country vibe with intricate string and guitar work but it's also stripped back with limited percussion, allowing Patti's timeless vocals to shine. However, it's not lost the essence of punk rock that both Cobain and Smith shared. This version also highlights the weight of Kurt original lyrics and the addition of Patti's own poetic verse makes it feel much more impassioned and intimate than the original. 

Miss Narcissist - Courtney Love

On a slightly related note, I've been so impressed with the most recent track from Courtney Love. Whilst I've read about and considered all the controversy surrounding her relationship with Kurt, I've always been an admirer of Courtney and all that she's achieved with Hole. 'Violet' became somewhat of an anthem for me throughout high school. And 'Miss Narcissist' is just as grungy, as Love practically snarls through the lyrics. The lyrics themselves are pretty self indulgent and obviously, narcissism isn't the most treasured characteristic but after a bad day, 'me, me, me, no apologies' is exactly what I need to hear. 

Lean On - Major Lazer & DJ Snake, feat. MO

I always appreciate a bit of house/reggae/dancehall, but the new upbeat one from Major Lazer also has such a brilliant chorus that it's a struggle not to sing along. And the lyric "all we need is somebody to lean on" is definitely true, however cheesy it may be. MO has these dreamy siren-like vocals that complement the blend of house and world music perfectly. However, I was surprised to see that MO is credited only as a featured artist when it was her input which drew me to the song in the first place. But the music world works in mysterious ways.

40oz On Repeat - FIDLAR

FIDLAR make the best angry music, hands down. Contrary to what your parents have probably told you, listening to songs containing various expletives and drug references does indeed make you feel rebellious and cool. The hell-raising band don't take themselves too seriously with their fuzzy guitars and humorous lyrics, making their music super refreshing and uplifting.  40oz On Repeat has the same signature backfeed but instead of encouraging a range of illegal activities, the lyrics sound more like they were written by an anti-social, angsty teen. They're about feeling lonely, misunderstood and just wanting to get drunk and as terrible as it may be, hearing somebody else's misfortune does make you feel a hell of a lot more positive about your own life. But I guess FIDLAR couldn't let their new track be downbeat in any way, so they've complied a hilarious accompanying video that I can guarantee will raise your spirits.

Watch it here: