The fortnightly five - 04 August 2026

A rundown of five items on my headphones from the last fortnight.

Usually, I am waxing on about the latest tunes I've discovered. However, not this week. It has been a very hard time recently, processing the loss of a beloved and cherished pal. In the tough times I have certain albums I turn to. This week's newsletter is focusing on albums with the power of comfort and healing.

Tidal Rave - Banana

I can't think of any other song more fitting to remember Ann-Marie Keating than 'Banana'. It's sweet, cute and original. Everything that her vibrant soul contained. Tidal Rave couldn't be a "jangle surf fuzz-pop" band without her ghostly, moody keyboard playing. Being such a talented babe she also was a singer, a bass player, a composer, a guitarist. Her other bands included Kittentank, Echo beach, Style on Trial, Paper Fortune and many more. It's such a tragedy to lose someone that has been part of the fabric of the local scene for so long. But also someone who was so kind-hearted and caring. Ann-Marie, you will be very very missed.

Floating Points, Pharoah Sanders & The London Symphony Orchestra - Promises 

A masterpiece in tears and beauty. There is something soothing in the dreamlike, and poignant qualities of 'Promises'. It is almost like Sanders is talking directly through his saxophone, expanding into every corner of sorrow and grief in your body. Filling the shapes made by your emotions. The sparse twinkling music bed is a direct link to the cosmos. It feels as if the universe understands your sorrow and is holding you gently.

Roberta Flack & Donny Hathaway (self-titled)

This is my go-to for any hard occasion. Pure gold from cover to cover.
Separately, Roberta and Donny are superb soul singers. But together, that chemistry shines. Their version of "You've Got a Friend" is my definitive version. It's like going home to a warm house on a cold winter's day. Nothing can make me feel as cared for and loved as these two.

Michael Kiwanuka - Small Changes

Gentle, airy and intimate, I could repeat this album for days on end. Kiwanuka explores compassion, growth and self-love. I remember being so stunned when this came out, as it's so much more delicate and layered than some of his previous work. There is a warmth and softness, which makes this a duvet hug of an album.

Fazerdaze - Soft Power

A standout album by Ōtautahi indie-pop dreamster, Fazerdaze (Amelia Murray). It is sweet, melodic and ethereal. A lo-fi bedroom aesthetic runs throughout making it feel relatable and grounded. Murray unpacks what the concept of soft power really is throughout the album. What does it take to live your truths, to be gentle and light, but be connected to your core and personal power. It's like a 37-minute phone call to your closest friend.

Thank you again to all my readers. Remember that listening to new music is good for the brain and soul. If you have a fresh tune you wish to share, please email me: waxonandonandon@gmail.com.