Rich storyteller Hank Compton creates music that dives beyond the surface level, exposing his greatest highs and lows. His new EP is called ‘Loser’ and portrays a moment in his life when he was experiencing ups and downs, and well, life.
We asked the Nashville native to put together a playlist for us with any chosen theme. His theme of choice is “Music That Keeps Me Going,” which is probably needed, now more than ever.
Duster – Travelogue
The thing about this entire record that really inspired me was this band’s way of making a beautiful soundscape out of gritty, unorthodox instrumentation. Also, music always takes me back to physical places or “era’s” of my life and this is reminiscent of the summers spent skating through the neighborhood with my friends growing up.
Sad Penny – Pissing
This song has some of the coolest, 90’s esque melodies/guitars and the whole story behind the song has this comical yet serious theme, which I adore.
Westerman – I Turned Away
This song has such a lush undertone to it. Something about the voice/production has this beautiful innocence to it without losing its depth.
The Blue Nile – The Downtown Lights
The emotion in Paul Buchanan’s vocal performance is unmatched. One of my favorite 80’s bands.
Lonas – Doesn’t Feel Right
This song is all-around one of my favorites, but the detail that sticks out to me the most is how well the percussion holds its organic quality while the synths and guitars create the atmosphere around it. Also, Lou and I produced my entire “Loser” EP together 🙂
Zander Hawley – Thumbs
I had the privilege of working on this EP with Zander and he never ceases to amaze me with his talent both lyrically and melodically. His voice is so good he could sing the telephone book to me and still find a way to make me cry.
The Cure – Pictures Of You
The Cure is one of my favorite bands of all time. Definitely a song you could catch me unapologetically belting at the top of my lungs at a stoplight.
Kevin Krauter – Piper
The writing and production on all of his stuff has always been so inspiring to me. This song specifically gives me chills every time the guitars come in before the last chorus. So dreamy and dissonant.
Prince – Why You Wanna Treat Me So Bad?
Prince has not only been one of my favorite artists of his decade but one of my favorite guitarists as well. That being said, the guitar parts on this song are fucking mint.
Roger – I Want To Be Your Man
One word. VOCODER.
The War On Drugs – Up All Night
In my opinion, this band is one of the best at combining folk and new wave into an edible, modern package. Also, this record on a sonic level is incredible. One of my go-to records for a pointless drive around town at dusk.
The Paper Kites – When It Hurts You
This chorus melody KILLS ME. This song/record takes spacious, anthemic production and still makes it feel desperate in the best ways.
The Replacements – Achin To Be
The Replacements have a band mentality that seeps into their music. I’ve always been such a fan of their entire vibe both musically and stylistically. The line in this song “She’s kind of like a movie that everyone rushes to see, but no one understands it sitting in their seats” always gets me.
Shania Twain – Forever and For Always
My admiration for Shania Twain has been apparent ever since I was 5 years old and my mom would play her CD’s as we rode around in our clunker minivan. This song is melodic candy to me and will always have a special, nostalgic place in my heart.
Listen to his ‘Loser’ EP below:
Sounds like: Ten Fé, Ryan Ashley, Zander Hawley, Hardcastle, Lonas, Young In The City
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