CAUSERS OF THIS

I'm having a bit of a throwback moment, but aren't those the best, musically speaking?  This time in particular, it's Toro Y Moi's 2010 debut album, Causers of This that has taken hostage of my iTunes.

I really like listening to the transition in Toro's music over the years- initially more ambient pop, it moves more into the R&B-influenced electronia category.  This album is the best place to start if you're unfamiliar with him.  It is super dreamy, happy-making and experimental pop at it's best.  Plus, the man behind the act, Chad Bundick is so humble, precious and gives a great interview.  I love the cool instrumental drops that carries opening track Blessa into Minors, and Talamak is crazy infectious.  And if you're really into it, Toro Y Moi is currently on tour, so check him out!!

STAY WITH US

Really into this song by Montreal band, Seoul.  Incredibly ambient, melancholy and, dare I say, cozy with whispered vocals producing a sound reminiscent of last year's breakout duo, Rhye.  Word on the street is they put on an amazing live show.  The video reminds me a lot of one of my favourite films, Lost In Translation. 

NIRVANA EP

Sam Smith has finally released his long-awaited EP, Nirvana, available on iTunes!  Check out this acoustic version of the title track right now- sent CHILLZ down my spine.  Such an extraordinary talent.  

BACK TO SCHOOL

Fourth year, get at meh ;)

KISS LAND

Happy Labo(u)r Day!!  Relaxing with the September issue, The Weeknd's new album, Kiss Land, and avoiding back to school packing at all costs! :P

NIRVANA

If you're a fan of UK electronic duo, Disclosure, you've probably been exposed to the silky smooth voice of Sam Smith, the 21-year-old Brit featured on 2013's inescapable dance track, Latch.  Last week Smith released Nirvana, a dreamy ballad that's brilliance has fulfilled my wildest R&B dreams.  In a style similar to Frank Ocean, Smith delivers powerful harmonies and an extremely catchy chorus.  The song is romantic, smooth, and just simply beautiful.  Smith puts cheesy acts like Ne-Yo and Trey Songz to shame, and brings with him a magical sincerity that is rare in the mainstream R&B genre, notorious for it's limited lyrical content featuring "bitches and the dranks", where "damn, yous a sexy bitch" is considered a compliment of the highest order.  Nirvana is the polar opposite of the dark material released by The Weeknd, but is in same lane, talent and originality-wise.  Smith's vocal gift is pure, and he seems like such a sweet, humble guy, always a bonus in a sea of divas and misogynistic "Blurred Lines".

Photo Source: Adam Without Eve

DESK TALK

September brings with it the desire to erase the slate of disorganization I've been notoriously rocking for the past three years as an undergraduate.  From now on, it's colour-coded Post-It notes, detailed Moleskine records, and labels galore.  It's folders and subfolders on my Macbook, highlights and underlines, iPhone productivity apps and raiding the aisles of Wal-Mart for the artillery to accomplish all of this.  There's nothing like a good arsenal of organizational methods to aid cognitive functioning, especially during these last eight months of the collegiate grind.  I'd like to squeeze in as much experience as possible before it's too late, and this can only be accomplished by getting my shit together.

In spirit of this recent attempt at overachieving, I've sought out deskspiration.  The control board of personal success has to be aesthetically pleasing and functional.  After all, it's where the magic happens.  Here are a few photos that have inspired me:

(SOURCE: Tumblr, Pinterest, and my hard drive)