The Contenders, Vol. 3: Our running list of the year's best songs
Feb 20, 2024
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Composer Julia Holter and NPR music journalist Lars Gotrich discuss their favorite new music, including Jessica Pratt's mesmerizing vocals, Deerlady's ethereal sound, and Helado Negro's calming tunes. They also explore the themes of existentialism and personal truth in the song 'Masterpieces' and delve into the unique musical landscapes inspired by nature in Asheville. The podcast covers a variety of new albums and tracks, highlighting the intimate and cinematic elements in the music.
Exploring diverse new music picks and the emotional depth of their lyrics.
Reflecting on the impact of colonialism and preserving native culture in music.
Appreciating the natural sounds and expansive landscapes captured in music.
Focusing on capturing feelings and vulnerability in the creative process.
Celebrating DIY artistry and intimate, richly layered music.
Deep dives
Overview of the podcast episode
This podcast episode features a conversation between Robin Hilton, Lars Gottrich, and Julia Holter. They discuss their experiences as former music directors for college radio stations, share their favorite music picks, and discuss the inspiration and themes behind their upcoming albums. The episode highlights songs from artists like Jessica Pratt, Dear Lady, Elado Negro, Francis Chang, and Jessica Kenny and Avon King.
Jessica Pratt's captivating voice and acoustic style
Julia Holter introduces Jessica Pratt's song 'Life Is' from her album 'Here in the Pitch.' Holter describes Pratt's entrancing vocal style and the emotional and surreal qualities of her lyrics. She praises the acoustic blend of Pratt's vocals and guitar, creating a warm and magical atmosphere.
Exploring themes of intimacy under colonialism
Lars Gottrich discusses the album 'Greatest Hits' by Dear Lady, a collaboration between Molly Abobsonwin and Mac DeLena Aburego. He emphasizes the powerful lyrics of the song 'Masterpieces,' which address the impact of colonialism on native lands and the struggle to preserve history and identity. The song's haunting sound and poetic delivery leave a lasting impression.
Elado Negro's wondrous music inspired by nature
Robin Hilton introduces Elado Negro's song 'Cholores del Mar' from the album 'Phaser.' Hilton admires how Elado Negro's music captures the sounds of nature and the wonder of being in the Smoky Mountains. The song's intricate rhythms, layered vocals, and overall sonic landscape create a captivating and expansive listening experience.
Julia Holter's upcoming album capturing feelings and vulnerability
Julia Holter talks about her forthcoming album, sharing that it represents a focus on capturing feelings rather than telling a linear story. She discusses how the album explores vulnerability, the creative process during the pandemic, and the intimacy of being pregnant. Holter offers a glimpse into her song 'Spinning,' highlighting its aim to evoke the moments of inspiration and creative longing.
Daisy Rickman's intimate and folky music
Lars Gottrich introduces Daisy Rickman's song 'Sign Post to the Stars' from her album 'Howl.' He praises her DIY approach and the intimate yet richly layered sound she achieves through recording everything herself. The song's nostalgic lyrics and soulful delivery create a captivating and reflective atmosphere.
Francis Chang's whimsical and DIY approach
Robin Hilton brings attention to Francis Chang's song 'Spiral in Houston' from the album 'Psychedelic Anxiety.' Hilton appreciates the whimsical and DIY quality of Chang's music, reminiscent of early 2000s Olympia artists. She highlights the playful lyrics and the intricate arrangements that blend together to create an enchanting listening experience.
Jessica Kenny and Avon King's pulsing and cinematic sound
Julia Holter introduces the collaborative album 'Azur' by Jessica Kenny and Avon King. She discusses the track 'Ocean,' emphasizing its pulsating rhythm, the vibrancy of Jessica's vocals and the strings, and the overall cinematic quality. Holter appreciates the exploration of mystery and the rawness of human experience depicted in the song.
Closing thoughts
The podcast episode wraps up with conversations about playdates for children, upcoming album releases, and personal connections to the music discussed. The hosts express gratitude for the music played and the opportunity to spend time together.
Host Robin Hilton hangs with composer and artist Julia Holter and NPR's Lars Gotrich to gab about their favorite new music, including the calming sounds of Helado Negro, Daisy Rickman and more.
Featured artists and songs: 1. Jessica Pratt: "Life Is" from 'Here In The Pitch' 2. Deerlady: "Masterpieces" from 'Greatest Hits' 3. Helado Negro: "Colores Del Mar" from 'Phasor' 4. Julia Holter: "Spinning" from 'Something in the Room She Moves' 5. Daisy Rickman: "Signpost to the Stars" from 'Howl' 6. Frances Chang: "Spiral in Houston" from 'Psychedelic Anxiety' 7. Jessika Kenney & Eyvind Kang: "Ocean" from 'Azure'
