In the ever-evolving landscape of music, the Pitchfork Selects playlist emerges as a beacon for music enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the eclectic tastes of its writers, editors, and contributors. This week's edition, dated July 13, 2026, is a testament to the diverse musical spectrum that the platform embraces. From the iconic Beyoncé to the emerging talents like Liim and Gilla Band, the playlist is a symphony of genres and styles, each track carefully curated to reflect the passion and expertise of the Pitchfork team.
One of the standout tracks is Beyoncé's "Morning Dew (Donk)", a song that seamlessly blends her timeless appeal with a modern twist. Personally, I find this track particularly fascinating as it showcases Beyoncé's ability to reinvent herself while staying true to her roots. It's a powerful reminder that evolution in the music industry is not just about change but also about preserving the essence of an artist's identity. What makes this song truly special is how it manages to be both familiar and fresh, a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation.
Liim's "Is Loving Really Bad" is another gem that immediately captures the listener's attention. Alex Suskind's composition is a testament to the power of vulnerability in music. In my opinion, this song is a bold statement about the complexities of human relationships, and it does so with a raw honesty that is both refreshing and deeply moving. The track's emotional depth is what sets it apart, making it a standout in the playlist.
Gilla Band's "Placeholder" is a song that resonates with the listener on a deeper level. Lily Goldberg's lyrics are a reflection of the struggles and aspirations of the human condition, and they do so with a poetic grace that is both poignant and thought-provoking. What many people don't realize is that this song is not just a musical piece but a narrative that speaks to the universal experiences of life, love, and loss.
3doly's "Whining" is a track that immediately stands out for its unique sound and energetic vibe. Olivier Lafontant's composition is a perfect example of how electronic music can be both captivating and emotionally resonant. If you take a step back and think about it, this song is a testament to the power of sound to evoke a wide range of emotions, from joy to melancholy.
Gloorp's "Bali Mode" is a song that transports the listener to a different realm, a place where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. Hattie Lindert's composition is a masterpiece of atmospheric sound design, and it does so with a subtle elegance that is both mesmerizing and deeply satisfying. What this really suggests is that Gloorp is not just a band but a collective of artists who are pushing the boundaries of what music can be.
Diamond's "STFU" is a song that is both bold and provocative, a track that challenges the listener to think critically about societal norms and expectations. OL's composition is a powerful statement about the importance of self-expression and the courage to defy conventions. This raises a deeper question: How can we create a society that values and encourages individual expression?
Tran Uy Duc's "Do It" is a song that is both empowering and uplifting, a track that inspires the listener to take action and pursue their dreams. Anna Gaca's composition is a testament to the power of music to motivate and inspire, and it does so with a contagious energy that is both infectious and deeply moving. What this song really suggests is that music can be a catalyst for personal growth and transformation.
Twisted Teens' "Florida Water Blues" is a song that is both nostalgic and contemporary, a track that captures the essence of a bygone era while remaining relevant in the present. Nina Corcoran's composition is a perfect example of how music can be both a reflection of the past and a bridge to the future. This raises a deeper question: How can we use music to connect with our past while remaining open to the possibilities of the future?
Mary in the Junkyard's "Mantra III" is a song that is both ethereal and profound, a track that resonates with the listener on a spiritual level. LG's composition is a testament to the power of music to transcend the boundaries of the physical world and touch the soul. What this song really suggests is that music can be a form of spiritual expression, a way to connect with something greater than ourselves.
Okkervil River's "Funny Feeling" is a song that is both introspective and reflective, a track that invites the listener to explore their own emotions and experiences. Jeremy Larson's composition is a perfect example of how music can be both a mirror and a window, allowing us to see ourselves while also offering a glimpse into the lives of others. This raises a deeper question: How can we use music to foster empathy and understanding in a world that is often divided?
Snõõper's "Recess" is a song that is both playful and profound, a track that invites the listener to take a break from the chaos of life and simply enjoy the moment. WG's composition is a testament to the power of music to provide solace and comfort in times of stress and uncertainty. What this song really suggests is that music can be a form of self-care, a way to nurture our well-being and find peace in the midst of chaos.
Plum's "Asymmetric" is a song that is both innovative and captivating, a track that challenges the listener to think outside the box and embrace the unknown. NC's composition is a perfect example of how music can be both a challenge and an invitation, a way to push the boundaries of what we know and explore the possibilities of what we don't.
Evil Graham Lee's "Is There Any Pedal Steel in Heaven?" is a song that is both whimsical and profound, a track that invites the listener to explore the intersection of music and spirituality. JL's composition is a testament to the power of music to transcend the boundaries of the physical world and touch the soul. What this song really suggests is that music can be a form of spiritual expression, a way to connect with something greater than ourselves.
In conclusion, the Pitchfork Selects playlist is more than just a collection of songs; it's a reflection of the diverse musical landscape that the platform embraces. From the iconic to the emerging, from the introspective to the experimental, each track tells a story and invites the listener to explore the depths of human experience. As we listen to these songs, we are reminded of the power of music to connect, inspire, and transform. It is a testament to the beauty and complexity of the human spirit, and it is a privilege to bear witness to it through the lens of Pitchfork's expert curation.
