If it’s December at You Ain’t No Picasso, then it’s time for Mixmas! Every year I like to turn YANP over to some of my favorite bands to showcase some of their favorite songs through a themed mix. They pick a theme, five songs that fit the theme and then share a little about why they picked each one. This year I’m also giving away a YANP shirt, so check below for the hint about tomorrow’s mix.

MP3: Chico Fellini – Can’t Deny

I really snoozed on getting into Chico Fellini — a fault for which I still feel I deserve to pay. Since checking them out, I’ve fallen in love with their album, live show and them as people. They’re a great group who recorded one of the best Kentucky albums this year.

“My 5 Favorite Songs to Break Out of My Late Afternoon Creative Ruts” by Duane Lundy of Chico Fellini

Many a day seems to present a 4o’clock divot creatively in the studio. These are 5 statements that have been most helpful, along with a bit of “tea & sympathy” to get things going….

Daniel Lanois- Lovechild

Amazing piano by the great Garth Hudson, provocative pedal steel, & mix from Dan Lanois.
This track always makes me think sideways about both texture and arrangement. Transcendent.

Cosenza Mix Tape-“ Random”
Though not a specific song, my great collaborator, as well as amazing drummer of These United States- Robby Cosenza has many mixtapes and dats laying abound the studio. Without fail his choices inspire me to look at music from a fresh,, and more honest perspective. The Fanged Robot, Cyndi Lauper, and Ace Frehley…better than coffee….seriously!!

My Morning Jacket – The Way That He Sings

Puts me in a good mood.

Led Zeppelin – Down By The Seaside [Youtube link]
My favorite band playing a song off my favorite album. Tremolo guitars, John Bohnam, Rhodes piano… Alt Country done by the genre’s best band…don’t kick me!

Bob Dylan – Its Alright Ma I’m Only Bleeding (live)

The truth is in performance.

Tomorrow’s hint: The next artist released a 2009 album that featured a guest appearance by Andrew Bird, is managed by Slim Moon and has a backing band that sounds like good advice when under attack.