DJ Jim Q's Playlist: RITUAL

Welcome, friends and devoted listeners to August’s playlist. This month’s theme is Ritual. Selected by my Virginia neighbors from the Charlottesville chapter, this month’s song list delves into themes of ceremony, sacrament, and rites. How fitting a theme; music itself is a ritualistic experience, wouldn’t you agree?

I can’t help but think of how ceremonial our behaviors are when engaging with music, especially live music. Attending a performance is very ritualistic. The stage serves as the altar, and we stand as the devoted congregation, facing forward in dedication and worship of the conductors of the service. We move methodically in reaction to the musical sermon, often involuntarily but predictably. The sounds provoke in us a physiological urge to respond with choreographed movement in the form of dance—or at least what some might describe as dance. In the silence between these sonic rites, we collectively know the ordained response: the rapid and audible slapping of our hands together in sync with our fellow disciples. When the final sermon has been delivered and the leaders have left the altar, we know the service is not over. With the proper incantation, they will return and deliver the true conclusion of the ceremony. Afterward, we file out of the sonic shrine and go about our lives, maybe a little more enchanted than before the ritual.

Join me in a musical incantation. These songs of ceremony and sacrament will call forth a bewitching listening experience for all who choose to receive it. The theme is Ritual, and our devotional is programmed to possess your soul. Enjoy our sonic sermon, including Little Dragon’s “Ritual Union,” Kehlani’s “ Altar,” Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club,” and The Sugarcubes’ “Birthday,” just to highlight a few. This playlist is a celebration of rituals, big and small, mundane and mystical. So, light some candles, burn some sage, plug in, turn it up, and enjoy the tunes. Happy listening!

Thanks for tuning in. If you enjoy these playlists I would love to hear from you. Give a hollar on Twitter and be sure to follow me on Spotify. See you next month with a new collection of tracks.