Link About It: This Week’s Picks

The UK's first interfaith charity shop, a Star Wars-inspired observatory, Marty McFly's Nikes up for auction and more in our look around the web

1. The Genius of Walter Becker Steely Dan co-founder Walter Becker, who passed away last weekend, was widely regarded as one of music’s greats—though not as a brilliant guitarist or vocalist, but rather a genius when it came to melodies. Both Steely Dan co-founders were jazz nerds, but beyond that they were groove masters who managed to craft left-of-center pop songs that appealed to just …

The Genius of Walter Becker

Steely Dan co-founder Walter Becker, who passed away at the weekend, was widely regarded as one of music’s greats—though not as a brilliant guitarist or vocalist, but rather a genius when it came to melodies. Both Steely Dan co-founders were jazz nerds, but beyond that they were groove masters who managed to craft left-of-center pop songs that appealed to just about everybody. As NPR says, …

Oddisee: Never Lived

The latest song to be featured in Adult Swim’s Singles Program is by hip-hop artist Oddisee (aka Amir Mohamed el Khalifa), whose The Iceberg was released in February this year. His knack for impeccably crafted tunes that blend elements—from hip-hop, disco, jazz, soul and more—is again reflected in this new track “Never Lived.” The nuanced beat and thoughtful lyrics combine delightfully, resulting in a soulful …