Following the release of his latest single 'The Sun In My Sky' Flex caught up with Israeli singer-songwriter and producer Soul Kaktus to find out more about what influences his eclectic sound, if you enjoy Soul's picks be sure to check out 'The Sun In My Sky' at the end of the article.
1. Knocks Me Off My Feet - Stevie Wonder
"Stevie Wonder's music never ceases to amaze me. The most soulful, unbelievable voice. Otherworldly jaw-dropping harmonies. one-of-a-kind productions and arrangements. And probably the best harmonica player on earth. His music constantly touches my soul and inspires me to create. It was very difficult to choose just one of his tracks (As, Power Flower, Overjoyed and Joy Inside My Tears were some serious contenders) but I chose this one because I think it resonates with me the most."
2. Samurai - Djavan
"A first but not last Brazilian representative on my list, and technically another Stevie song since he played harmonica on it. When it comes to groove and harmony, I think Brazilian music is my top choice, and I can never have enough Portuguese in my ears. Djavan is an incredible MPB artist who (along with Tim Maia) is my favorite artist combining R&B, Funk and Disco with Samba and Bossa Nova. This fusion is something I'm addicted to and very much inspired by."
3. Chega De Saudade - João Gilberto
"João Gilberto means a lot to me because listening to his albums and learning to play and sing his music was in part what made me decide to want to make my own music. I'm obsessed with him and with the whole genre in general, to be honest. My previous release is a Bossa Nova single, and it's not gonna be the last. Chega De Saudade is a perfect song, with credits going to the legendary composer Antonio Carlos Jobim and songwriter Vinicius De Moraes. Its core subject - the Brazilian idea of "Saudade" which means a bittersweet longing for a loved one - is a concept that I frequently visit in my songwriting."
4. Simon & Garfunkel - Kathy's Song
"Paul Simon's songwriting and specifically lyricism had a great impact on me from a young age. He is a master in creating circular and cathartic narratives in his songs. He's able to create clear and vibrant imagery, while making the most abstract concepts and emotions vivid and palpable. I think Kathy's song is one of the most beautiful love songs ever written. I adore its humility, and how incredibly honest and profound it is."
Favorite verse:
"And as I watch the drops of rain
Weave their weary paths and die
I know that I am like the rain
There but for the grace of you go I"
5. Skating In Central Park - Jim Hall / Bill Evans
"Had to include a jazz track, and specifically my favorite track from my favorite jazz album. It's a piano and guitar jazz duet that sounds like nothing I've ever heard in my life. The two masterfully alternate and intertwine with each other in a way that feels like they are one, creating a delicate and achingly beautiful sound. To me, it's the sonic parallel of starry night skies and city lights reflecting on a lake."
Listen to Soul Kaktus 'The Sun In My Sky'
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