“Five years ago I was 21. It’s hard (and amusing) to remember what I was listening to.. and it’s really funny to think how much of the music that is so important to me now I discovered since then…”

Then

Stronger Than Me – Amy Winehouse.

This song, and the rest of the album, was a big soundtrack to my uni years. It was so fresh at the time. And I was more friendly with the soul-urban world that I’ve really dropped out of now..

Coyote – Joni Mitchell

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jx7TBQyA4_I

I discovered the album Hejira much later than Blue, Ladies of the Canyon and other earlier albums which were already a big part of my life. This particular songs takes me straight back to the flat I was living in at the time.

Welcome To Tijuana – Manu Chao

Manu Chao was still the summer holiday soundtrack of that time, even though it wasn’t new anymore. But come on, with ‘tequila, sexo y marihuana’ its hard to top..

Bloody Mother Fucking Asshole – Martha Wainwright

This song was revolutionary to me when I first heard it. Not least cause the Asshole in question was someone I’d grown up listening to. I got to see her live around this time too. So strong and raw…I just loved it.

It’s A Pose – Nellie McKay

This was striking when it came out. Now I find it difficult musically, but I was more tolerant of musical theatre at the time, and lyrically it’s feisty! She’s an interesting artist.

Now

Shady Lane – Pavement

When I was doing a support tour for Jeffrey and Jack Lewis they used to talk about all these bands in the car rides that I’d heard of but never listened to. So when I got back to London I thought I better do my homework… and I discovered a new world! Where have I been all my life?!

Hey Boy – The Blow

In particular the youtube video of Khaela Maricich singing the song live in London. It’s impressive stage banter.. one of the best intro’s to a song I’ve seen! And  I think every girl can relate to these lyrics…ha.

Waterloo Sunset – The Kinks

Because I was walking by the river last night and it all made sense. And because I’m going to see Ray Davies at Hop Farm Festival tomorrow!!

One Week Of Danger – The Virgins

My 17 year-old sister introduced me to this band, and this song. And I was like ‘eugh please what is this’ And then a week later she sent it to me again and I was like ‘wow cool what is this?!’ haha… Music for a good mood. Makes me want to be in band.

Mr Postman – The Marvellettes

Because I’m working a secret project with this song. It’s almost done. Maybe at the next show.. And because real post letters have come back into my life recently!

www.myspace.com/lailarad

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