Isolation tunes: The Day 6 music panel's top new tracks to blast in quarantine
Fiona Apple and Lido Pimienta have both released records during the pandemic
Whether you're looking to sink into the feeling of isolation or escape it completely, music has been an important coping mechanism for many during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many prominent artists have released new music in the midst of the ongoing crisis, including Canadian acts like Joel Plaskett and Jessie Reyez.
We asked the Day 6 music panel to share some of the tracks they've had on repeat in isolation.
Lido Pimienta, Eso Que Tu Haces
Canadian Colombian artist Lido Pimienta recorded the majority of her new album Miss Colombia in her Toronto home studio.
But the Polaris Prize-winning musician has an ability to transport listeners far beyond the confines of their homes on tracks like Eso Que Tu Haces, according to CBC Music writer Andrea Warner.
"That soaring element, it's so beautiful," Warner said. "It just completely takes me out of where I'm at at this moment, and I'm so grateful for that."
Fiona Apple, Cosmonauts
Eight years after the release of her last record, Fiona Apple reached new heights of acclaim with her new record Fetch the Bolt Cutters. Pitchfork gave the album a perfect rating — the highest score it's handed out in nearly a decade.
Freelance writer and editor Melissa Vincent recommends the track Cosmonauts. She says the record's complexity makes it perfect for the long, quiet hours of self-isolation.
"It feels like Fiona is handing you this very thick textbook and your job is to sit with a set of headphones on, uninterrupted, and just really let yourself sink into this environment that she's created," said Vincent.
Khruangbin, Time (You and I)
Texan trio Khruangbin's latest record Mordechai isn't slated for release until June, but the band unveiled its first single at the end of April.
CBC Afterdark host and Grand Analog rapper Odario Williams told Day 6 that he's been drawn to the band's instrumental style more than ever during the COVID-19 crisis.
"The instrumental aspect of music right now is good for the soul because we're soaking up so much news these days," he said.
To hear the tracks above — and more songs recommended by our panelists this week — check out our Spotify playlist.
Written and produced by Annie Bender.
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