Mix tapes make me nervous. When Sean and Stacy first asked me to participate in their Minstrel Fridays series, I said yes and then never got around to it. Even though I’ve been writing about music for nearly a decade in this town, I’m very protective of my personal taste. Sometimes it’s questionable. And I don’t have a database of obscure knowledge stored in my scatter-brain, nor an astounding collection of music, though I try.

But it’s not just that. I wanted there to be a story behind this compilation. Nothing too literal, mind you. Perhaps more of an air than a story. An optimistic attitude. Some of the songs have personal meaning; some just cheer me up.

By the way, the current chapter of my real-life story has a happy ending. I’m in love and I’m moving to Seattle with my man after spending my entire adult existence in San Diego. Talk about new and exciting. Life-affirming, really. It was a long wait, but here it finally is. So I decided to make a mellow mix that reflects this mood of love, nostalgia, melancholy, and adventure. You won’t find the latest, coolest indie tunes, if that’s what you’re looking for. Just my heart.

I’m skipping town on July 30. I hope I’ve said goodbye to everybody. I’ve complained about it a lot, but I’ve also loved it in San Diego. To my family, friends, and the people who have inspired me with their creative and intellectual feats heroic over the years: Thank you. I will miss you. Please don’t forget me.

xo,
AnnaMaria
www.uccellinimedia.com

1. “Summertime” by Jesca Hoop
2. “Love” by J Dilla feat. Pharoahe Monch
3. “Via Con Me” by Paolo Conte
4. “Sunshine” by Matt Costa
5. “Flying High” by Brisa Roché
6. “Quiet Houses” by Fleet Foxes
7. “My Baby Just Cares for Me” by Nina Simone
8. “We’re All in the Dance” by Feist
9. “May This Be Love” by Jimi Hendrix
10. “He Needs Me” with Shelly Duvall (from Popeye), arranged by Jon Brion