Brr. Did someone just open a window? Or did I catch a crazy vibe from this funky ass song? Ok enough silliness. This week we deep dive into the songs that give us the literal chills. You know, the type of song that makes the hairs on your arm stand up. A song that makes you sit up a little straighter… makes you “lock in” as the youth say. And no, we DIDN’T just explore this theme with “Visceral.” That’s different. We insist.
Christina picked this theme with a song in mind, but had no idea what an incredible journey the song had lived when she selected it, giving her chills all over again when she learned its background. The chilling song in question is “Watermelon Man” from Herbie Hancock’s 1973 album Head Hunters. From the opening notes of the song emulating the hindewhu flute to the saxophone and clavinet cranking out some serious funk, this song is destined to give you goosebumps. Just don’t confuse it for the (albeit wonderful) 1962 version!
Christine’s pick was a unanimous agreement in this category–Rosalia’s “Berghain” feat. Bjork and Yves Turner from her 2025 album Lux. From the super intense opening featuring melodramatic strings from the London Symphony Orchestra to the German chorus, sung by a Catalan choir, and then Rosalía herself singing in German, the song is full of chill-inducing surprises. We get chills all over again hearing Bjork repeat “the only way to save us is through divine intervention.” But then you might have lost us with the Mike Tyson quote.
Listeners, we know we took a serious turn with our statement this week. And we mean it. We are an immigrant loving and supporting podcast. We are in camp “stronger together,” and we are directly opposed to the notion that anyone is unlawful based on country of origin. Support your community. Donate funds if you have them. Donate time if you don’t. Listen to protest music. Take care of yourselves and others. We love you.
Stereothematica 