Additional Tracks to Soothe the Mind: All Songs Considered
Around this time last year, we embraced a soothing experience with a show dedicated to calming the nerves, beautifully followed by another serene set of melodies the previous fall. This week, we continue this uplifting journey with our latest installment, “Even More Songs to Calm the Nerves.” Here, we celebrate the soothing sounds of artists like Max Richter, whose work honors the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as well as ambient masterpieces from Ryuichi Sakamoto and alva noto. We also explore the warm embrace of Brazilian jazz with tunes from Wayne Shorter and Milton Nascimento and many others.
NPR Music’s Lars Gotrich joins our kind host Robin Hilton for this tranquil sonic journey, inviting you to immerse yourself in these calming soundscapes. You can find the full versions of these lengthy pieces, along with previous selections, in our lovingly curated Songs To Calm The Nerves playlist, designed to bring you relaxation and peace.
Featured artists and songs:
- The Choir: “You Don’t Have To Smile,” from ‘Translucent’
- Orbitalpatterns: “Can’t Tell If I’m Awake,” from ‘Extended Impostor Syndrome’
- alva noto & Ryuichi Sakamoto: “Logic Moon,” from ‘Insen’
- Lea Bertucci: “Vapours,” from ‘Of Shadow And Substance’
- Hayden Pedigo: “Long Pond Lily,” from ‘I’ll Be Waving As You Drive Away’
- Max Richter: “All Human Beings,” from ‘Voices’
- Wayne Shorter & Milton Nascimento: “Tarde,” from ‘Native Dancer’
- Mabe Fratti: “El Sol Sigue Ahí,” from ‘Pies sobre la tierra’
- Ida: “Don’t Get Sad,” from ‘Will You Find Me?’
- David Zinman, Dawn Upshaw & London Sinfonietta: “Lento,” from Henryk Górecki’s ‘Symphony No. 3’
As part of your weekly reset, take a peaceful walk through the serene Okazaki neighborhood at night, letting the calming atmosphere wash over you. Allow this gentle reminder to nurture your spirit and enrich your wellness journey.
