OLDIES BUT GOODIES posted by O.W.

Al Hirt: Harlem Hendoo
From Soul in the Horn (RCA, 1967)

Dizzy Gillespie: Matrix
From The Real Thing (Perception, 1971)

I'm not feeling lazy - just nostalgic. These two are amongst the earliest posts that went up on Soul Sides back when we launched in 2004 (damn, that feels like a long time ago despite only being two years and change). They are also perfectly "common" in terms of songs that have no doubt graced many an other MP3 blog at some point.

We don't really care about that.

If it's not abundantly clear, I run this site as a proverbial "labor of love." I do it because it gives me a sense of happiness regardless if I'm compensated for it or not (though we'd love it if you buy our mix-CDs when we eventually get around to dropping 'em? And oh yeah - Soul Sides Vol. 2 is this close to being finalized. Thanks to Zealous Records for their, um, zealousness).

All I ask is very simple: you don't have to like the songs. But if there's one thing I cannot stand, it's people who suggest - in an obnoxiously condescending way - what this site should or should not focus on. It's not your site. If you think you can do a better job, then start your own audioblog. Otherwise, kindly take this advice.

Assuming we have an understanding, please enjoy the Hirt and Gillespie tracks with my full blessing.

By the way, speaking of "Matrix," here's one of my favorite uses of the song.