With the warm weather finally beginning to shift into more seasonably autumnal temperatures, it’s only getting easier to fall back on the deeply human thought that, man, you should be on a boat right now. It’s Maslow’s most famous omission from his hierarchy of needs (unless that’s what he meant by “water” under the “psychological” tier), and it doesn’t help that there are entire genres of music created to remind you of the cool breezes and only slightly repugnant smells of life on a seaworthy vessel.
A specialist when it comes to soundtracking pool parties, lazy rivers, and other relaxing aquatic encounters, Canadian electronic producer BLOND:ISH returned this morning with her new single “Different Way,” a collaboration with Brazilian singer Zeeba that already has us looking forward to springtime. The pulsing, groovy electronic instrumental creates the perfect sound bed for Zeeba’s woozy vocals as the beat builds and ultimately breaks.
In honor of the new song, BLOND:ISH took a moment to consider the ideal tracklist for a day out on the water with an 11-song track list celebrating any and all impending boat days. Check out her picks below, and listen to “Different Way” here.
Chris Malinchak, “So Good to Me”
When you need a song to get you grounded, you can turn to this one. All the elements just ooze yummy town, and if you’re trying to wait for that moment to make a move, this is also it.
Neil Frances, “Music Sounds Better with You”
A good cover is a good cover, and for a boat day you need to bring relatable vibes (but not obvious) to keep the boat crew on their toes. This fits the bill.
The Frightnrs feat. Victor Axelrod, “I’d Rather Go Blind”
You’re in the Caribbean, you have no responsibilities except for chilling to the max, and you’re listening to this track in between the sound of the waves softly brushing the boat.
Moi Je, “Profite” (Kazy Lambist Remix)
It’s sexy, got those Slim Aarons south-of-France vibes, and like trouble is about to start after lunch.
Octavio Mesa y Su Condujo, “La Pelea con el Diablo”
Something about Latinas always love to shake their booties and show us how they dance salsa, and it’s a vibe.
America, “A Horse with No Name”
Whenever I go to Burning Man, a huge part of the culture is the playlists that you make for that whole week—especially the ones for the road trip, which involves leaving the responsibilities of your busy, noisy life and stresses to the spontaneity and freedom of the desert. This one fits that mood when you transition to the present moment of the desert life for the week.
BLOND:ISH feat. Stevie Appleton, “Never Walk Alone”
Made this song in LA with Stevie Appleton after observing an increasing amount of lonely people on my gig travels. The goal was simple: to experiment and make a track that feels like your best friend. The intention of “Never Walk Alone” is to be that companion you never knew you needed.
Skinshape feat. D’Alma, “Sua Alma”
It’s chill and elevated, some would say sophisticated, doesn’t take up too much space, blends in the mood without sounding like elevator music.
Anotr & Erik Bandt feat. Leven Kali, “How You Feel”
Perfect combination of that summer disco sound and feel-good vocals. Can’t help but smile while listening to this one cruising on the water.
Nu & Jo.Ke, “Who Loves the Sun” (DSF Remix)
Another great cover of a classic summertime track—keeps the relatable sound of the original, but adds a little extra subtle oomph.
Buena Vista Social Club, “Chan Chan”
Buena Vista Social Club are legends of the son cubano and bolero scene. They sparked a revival of classic Cuban and Latin American sound. Perfect vibes for a breezy lunch on the boat.
