We asked singer-songwriter Priscilla Ahn, who is currently recording her sophomore release for Blue Note Records, to share her five favorite albums of the moment. Her own album, A Good Day (2008), is available at www.priscillaahn.com.
Prince Of Cool: The Pacific Jazz Years 1952-1957 (2004) by Chet Baker
I’m madly in love with his voice, and his trumpet playing is so soft and warm. Every note is just right. And this album has all the classics on it. One of my favorites is “Come Rain or Come Shine.” I listen to this album almost every single day.
Good Morning, Spider (1998) by Sparklehorse
I was turned on to Sparklehorse after reading that Radiohead was a fan. Once I got this album, I was hooked. The songs spoke of things that I thought only I saw and dreamed about. This album inspired me with hope when I thought there was none left.
Songs of Freedom (1992) by Bob Marley
This album always cheers me up. The songs are so sweet and fun. Bob Marley’s voice sounds so young. These are some of his earliest songs and recordings, including his very first song, “Judge Not.” It’s a 4-disc compilation album, which means a lot of Marley to go around.
Catacombs (2009) by Cass McCombs
I just discovered Cass’ music, and I am a huge fan now. I’m addicted to this album. If you wrote out his lyrics, it’d almost be as if you were just recording someone’s dialogue. The song that really kills me is “The Executioner’s Song.” I love the way this album was recorded, too. You can really hear everything that was played.
Sugar Mountain–Live at Canterbury House 1968 (2008) by Neil Young
This record is special because it was simply recorded with two inputs: guitar and voice. The real treat is hearing Neil banter in between songs. He’s so quirky and honest and present. And Sugar Mountain is one of those very special songs; even as a little girl, I knew this magical place existed for me somewhere.
