It’s entirely biased (and probably unethical) of me to even attempt to pen an introduction for Paloma Monnappa. We’ve spent the last ten years being uncomfortably close; the kind of close that inspires ‘weird things you only do with your BFF’ buzzfeed lists or makes our own partners feel like third wheels around us. Yes, she’s trisected in enviable proportions. As a model/surfer/dj it all fits together to become everything you’d imagine a vivacious entity to be but given the situation, I’m incapable of hiding behind the glamorous description. Mostly because she’s so much more than that.
There aren’t too many layers to peel before you get to that full-bellied laugh, the neuroses that endear or her ability to break into the most ridiculous ‘buntai’ lingo that should probably be patented. And obviously, since my biases are laid bare, I’m willing to add that nothing beats this girl’s music selection. (Even if she gets way too over-excited while sharing it.)
Honestly, the only description that comes to mind is that Paloma is the best kind of nutter; albeit a nutter in unbelievably beautiful packaging. Scroll on to navigate her musical map.
I. First thing in the morning.
I like listening to this right after waking up so that I know I’ll wake up in a great mood. Possibly even bust some retarded dance moves like Jay Kay who is the coolest!
II. Singing in the shower.
Aretha Franklin is definitely my favourite when it comes to soul and showers need soul!
III. Relaxing by myself.
On those occasions that I’m sick of listening to electronic music and want to sit back & relax by myself, Jazz always helps! Gotta love Nat king Cole.
IV. On a road trip to the beach.
Erlend Oye is the geek spectacled half of Norway’s ‘Kings of Convenience’ and has the most awkward dance moves on stage but also has the sweetest, softest voice. ‘Riot On An Empty Street’ is another great album by them. Also, check out his other band ‘The Whitest Boy Alive’.
V. Actually on the beach.
Such a perfect video too! Jorgelina “Lina” Reyero is one of the most graceful female surfers out there.
VI. Drinking & listening to vinyls with my dad.
Neil Young always makes me nostalgic. I can’t help but do my retarded version of the air guitar when the solo starts, it’s one note but still so melodic and just snarls with attitude and anger like he desperately wants to connect. The lyrics are really deep too.
VII. While I’m getting dressed to go out.
I’m a huge Black Keys fan! One of the best rock and roll bands right now and they’re as good live. ‘Little Black Submarine’ is also one of my favourite songs by them.
VIII. Before bed.
This is number 1 on my sleep playlist.
IX. Death.
As morbid as it sounds this beautiful piece is on my death playlist and I’d like it to be the last song I ever hear before I die.
And finally, a sneak peek into her ‘90s jam:
Her ‘90s anthem.
And of course: