Inspired by the 2008 Beijing Olympics, playing the Acropolis in Athens, and a dream he had about retelling the great tales of Ancient Greece through music, the Olympians’ Troy Pazner put together an all-star lineup of soul musicians to record one of the most compelling instrumental albums of the year. His quest to build the “Temple of Sound” from his dreams has led to a lush sound for the self-titled record, out now on Daptone Records.
To celebrate the album, Pazner made this Talkhouse playlist full of classic soul tracks and more, including the closest thing to a soul song the Beatles ever did.
–Dave Lucas, Talkhouse Marketing Manager
The Beatles – “Rain”
Awesome single track. Great transition from early pop to the more ground-breaking work that defined their later recordings.
Bill Withers – “Use Me”
This live recording shows exactly what a great band can sound like.
Curtis Mayfield – “Keep on Keeping on”
Another song that truly shows the power of a great songwriter and a solid band.
A Tribe Called Quest – “Electric Relaxation”
A classic hip-hop song. Perfect meld of old-school classics and great rapping.
James Brown – “Superbad”
Classic James Brown Song. Quintessential mix of an incredible singer and a perfect rhythm section.
Lou Donaldson – “It’s Your Thing”
The most classic beatbreak of all time.
Ramsey Lews – “Do What You Wanna”
A classic Wurlitzer keyboard song. Shows you just want a good trio can do.
Al Green – “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart”
Great live performance. Just incredible band presence and singing.
Stevie Wonder – “You Haven’t Done Nothing”
A great song with a great message.
The Beatles – “Don’t Let Me Down”
The closest thing to a soul song the Beatles ever did. Great tune by a great band.
