Recommended easy listening. Relaxing, soothing background music.

Black Orpheus

Black Orpheus [Orfeu Negro]

This song, for instance, is surely what everyone imagines when they think of easy listening.

The restrained yet properly engaging piano is a thoroughgoing display of craftsmanship, deliberately arranged so it never gets in the way.

It’s perfect to put on when you want to concentrate, like when studying for exams.

OblivionAstor Piazzolla and his band (Asutoru Piazzora)

Oblivion by Astor Piazzolla and his band (original)

I wouldn’t be surprised if this song were used in a travel commercial.

Just listening to it makes you feel as if you’re on a trip somewhere.

In contrast, the latter half of the piece carries a sense of wistfulness and evokes a certain nostalgia.

Milonga del ÁngelAstor Piazzolla（Astor Piazzolla）

Astor Piazzolla-Milonga del Ángel

This piece is so well-crafted that it wouldn’t be out of place in an Italian mafia film.

In fact, it might already have been used in a famous movie, but with my lack of study and limited knowledge, I can’t say for sure.

That said, there’s no doubt that it’s a masterpiece and a wonderful song.

For a Few Dollars MoreEnnio Morricone (Ennio Morikōne)

For a Few Dollars More (Yūhi no Ganman) — Ennio Morricone

I think there are hardly any people who don’t know the film “For a Few Dollars More,” except perhaps among the younger generation.

It was such an influential Western that whenever people heard this music, everyone would mimic a quick draw.

It feels like a time that’s hard to imagine nowadays.

Night deepens over Washington SquareVirejji Sutonpāzu

Washington Square at Night / The Village Stompers

I listened to this song for the first time, and I immediately knew it was unique.

It’s extremely simple, yet it undeniably has a captivating power.

And I’m sure a song like this went on to influence the music scene that followed.

It’s a masterpiece that would be a shame to let remain buried.