It would seem remiss not to post this song as it’s probably the one I’m listening to most often when writing. It’s a shame that “background music” has emerged as a derogatory term, having been cannibalized by Café Del Mar and the like, because there is room for genius in music that allows the listener to tune out.

Such is the case with this standout from Papa M’s background opus Live From a Shark Cage. Taking its time and earning its keep, Drunken Spree gives you space to focus on other things; whether you’re painting illustrations for a children’s book, making a stew, or plotting to rig an election in a small South American country, you can be left alone with your thoughts until the seven minute mark when a slow drum beat and restrained vocal accents gently remind you that you’re in the presence of genius.

Papa M – Drunken Spree 9:05 mins/ 192 kbps/ 12.4MB