Soundtrack


Yo La Tengo Cook up a Cover-Rich Soundtrack

For 30 years, Ira Kaplan and Georgia Hubley have recorded everything from acoustic ballads to noise pop, as two out of three members of indie rock stalwarts Yo La Tengo. That diversity is evident on the group's latest album of cover songs, called "Stuff Like That There." They DJ a dinner party filled with new takes on familiar tunes.


Thundercat’s Perfect Tunes to Ruin a Party

Thundercat, a.k.a. Stephen Bruner, played bass for the seminal thrash band Suicidal Tendencies and has become known lately for his funky, jazzy work with musicians like Flying Lotus and Kendrick Lamar. On the eve of his solo tour, he presents us with a party playlist that celebrates debauchery -- on the road, at a house party, or on the high seas.


Joy Williams’ Spirited Dinner Party Soundtrack

Singer-songwriter Joy Williams, half of the late great Grammy-winning duo The Civil Wars, is about to release her latest solo effort, "Venus." She provides us with a playlist for the kind of dinner party that features comfort food and air-drumming.


Colleen’s Chill Playlist for a Laid-Back Dinner Party

French musician Cecile Schott, who performs under the name Colleen, has composed six albums of instrumental music featuring an ancient string instrument called the Viola da Gamba, layered with electronic effects. Pitchfork says several tracks on "Captain of None," her new album, "positively vibrate with melodic ideas." Here's Cecile with a chill party playlist.


Angel Olsen Lights up the Stage with ‘Lights Out’

North Carolina-based songstress Angel Olsen gave enthralling performances of her singles "Iota" and "Lights Out," on the Fitzgerald stage in St. Paul, Minnesota. She also sang a haunting cover of Richie Havens' "I'm a Stranger Here."


Public Service Broadcasting’s Party(ish) Playlist

J. Willgoose, Esq. and Wrigglesworth are pseudonyms of the duo behind the instrumental band Public Service Broadcasting. The two are known for pairing dance music with archival sound clips. Their latest album, "The Race for Space," was, not surprisingly, inspired by the space race. The London-based band kick off their playlist with two party-inappropriate tracks, and then close it out with some fine jams.