Rewind: 5 Cassettes for Your New/Old Walkman
Ah, tapes – those charming relics of a bygone era, complete with that ever-delightful risk of unravelling into a nested mess that no pencil can salvage. For some reason, they are coming back in a big way. Maybe it’s some relentless lobbying by the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise and their blue Sony Tps-l2 Walkman complete with iconic orange headphones (eat your wireless hearts out Apple AirPods – you have nothing on these warm fuzzy {in both the audio and the physical sense} and foamy bundles of magic). Or maybe it’s a bit of a musical revolt wrapped in nostalgia, a middle finger to the intangible, a reclaiming of the mixtape artistry that Spotify’s algorithms will never understand. In an age where music generally floats about in the cloud, fleeting and disposable, the Walkman demands commitment. It’s music with intention, a far cry from the mindless shuffle play that’s become our default. So, for those ready to embrace this blend of irony and old-school authenticity, here’s your starter pack – five cassettes that are not only iconic high notes in the chapter of the Walkman era but were also prolific enough to still be holding out somewhere in a garage sale, a TradeMe bulk buy or an op shop.
Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” (1984)
Because what’s more empowering than belting out “Material Girl” while questioning your life choices? It’s a pop bible for the modern woman, navigating love and ambition in a material world.
Whitney Houston’s “Whitney” (1987)
Whitney’s voice was the soundtrack to every “I will survive” moment, from breakups to big promotions. This album is a reminder that you’re every woman – it’s all in you, and yes, you can dance with somebody.
Tracy Chapman’s “Tracy Chapman” (1988)
For the days when you’re feeling introspective and a little bit ‘save the world’. It’s folk music with a conscience, perfect for the woman who’s as concerned about social justice as she is about her carbon footprint.
Alanis Morissett’s “Jagged Little Pill” (1995)
The ultimate catharsis in a cassette, for when you need to scream-sing in traffic about the messiness of life, love, and everything in between. It’s like a therapy session, but cheaper and with more harmonica.
Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours” (1977)
This album is for those complex moments that require a soundtrack as intricately layered as your feelings. It’s the musical equivalent of a group hug from Stevie Nicks and the gang, reminding you that even legends have bad days.
