Best of 2012

Another year, another mix CD!

After a few attempts to create a cover that I felt represented the events of this past year, I recapitulated one of my favorite images, the human heart. Sometimes simplicity is best.

As always, the CD is a mix of old and new songs that have became a favorite over the last twelve months because they convey a particular emotion or describe an event that has some relevance. This year, I chose songs that represent events in the news, my work, my travels, my new life in the city, as well as a few favorite new pop songs.  Although this collection is highly personal, I tried my best to include songs that I hope my friends will appreciate – songs that may become favorites for them as well. So far, all my friends have responded positively, but there is always the chance that they are only being polite! 

Best of 2012

1. O Little Town of Bethlehem – My Father (Recorded in 1955)

2. Villanella (Music from the Rice Field of The Po Delta) – Alan Lomax

3. Ho Hey – The Lumineers

4. To Just Grow Away  – The Tallest Man on Earth

5. Right Down the Line  – Bonnie Raitt

6. Bright Whites – Kishi Bashi

7. Greenback Boogie – Ima Robot

8. Ain't I Right – Marty Robbins

9. Judgement – Sister Mary Nelson 

10. Chaje Shukarije – Esma Redzepova

11. Mal Hombre – Lydia Mendoza

12. Love Interruption – Jack White

13. Hot Knife – Fiona Apple

14. Sing, Sing, Sing (With A Swing) (Parts 1 and 2) – Benny Goodman and His Orchestra

15. It Don't Mean A Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing) – Duke Ellington and His Famous Orchestra with Kay Davis, Joya Sherrill, and Marie Ellington

16. Summertime – Preservation Hall Jazz Band

17. One for My Baby (And One More for the Road) – Lena Horne

18. Saint-Saëns: Carnival of the Animals – Finale – Leonard Bernstein: New York Philharmonic Orchestra

What were your favorite songs this year? Did I forget to include any obvious choices?

Let me know! I'd love to hear your suggestions.