Liz Pelly's 'Mood Machine' Investigates Spotify's Playlist Economy

Liz Pelly, an American music journalist known for her critical analysis of the streaming industry, has published 'Mood Machine: The Rise of Spotify and the Price of the Perfect Playlist' (Italian edition by EDT, 2026, translated by Giovanni Garbellini). The book is both an investigation and an indictment of how Spotify's algorithm-driven, never-ending playback transforms music listening from album-oriented engagement into a seamless, hypnotic flow that resembles radio. Pelly questions who decides what plays next, exposing the hidden costs behind the curated playlist experience. The work examines the economic and cultural implications of streaming, focusing on Spotify's dominance and the commodification of music consumption.