LCD Soundsystem -- "New York I Love You, But You're Bringing Me Down"\nJames Murphy and crew threw a curveball with this closing track on their album Sound of Silver. Without a trace of the band's usual dance-punk and dripping instead with ballad-y goodness, this track laments the changes in New York and delves into the love-hate relationship many have with the Big Apple. "New York you're perfect, don't, oh please don't, change a thing." Indeed.
Jamie Lidell -- "The City"\nElectro-soul songman Jamie Lidell nails the hustle and bustle of an unforgiving city. Catchy and jarring, it takes me back to memories of death-defying cab rides, sketchy neighborhoods, taking the wrong trains and some of the not-fun-at-the-time moments NYC threw my way.
Frida Hyvönen -- "N.Y."\nThis relaxed piano-and-trumpet ballad is a great complement to an aimless journey through the city. The minor key and the slightly depressing lyrics, though, might make you a bit gloomy or homesick.
Charlie Parker -- "Scrapple from the Apple"\nNothing conjures images of a stroll through Central Park like this lively jazz tune from one of the fathers of bop. Though the city's jazz scene will likely never be as vibrant as it once was, songs like this will always allow for a glimpse into the history of the genre and the city itself.
Woody Guthrie -- "New York Town"\nThe legendary Woody Guthrie always fought for the little guys and the downtrodden. In this song, he describes the plight of those who are less fortunate or down on their luck in the city. Guthrie helps put it in perspective and evokes compassion by saying, "Every good man gets a little hard luck sometimes"
