Desirée Moses, a music programmer at WNRN and former NPR Music intern, joins to unveil the latest in music. They dive into FKA twigs’ evocative album 'EUSEXUA' and Central Cee’s storytelling prowess in 'Can't Rush Greatness.' The discussion highlights the emotional depth of Sam Amidon's 'Salt River' and Mogwai’s enduring legacy with 'The Bad Fire.' Moses shares insights on indie and global artists, exploring profound themes in Anna B. Savage's 'You & I Are Earth,' illuminating the vibrant landscape of current music releases.
FKA Twigs' album 'Eusexua' explores the interplay of elation and darkness through dance music, reflecting her unique underground experiences.
Central Cee's debut 'Can't Rush Greatness' fuses UK rap influences with introspective lyricism, illustrating his journey in the music industry.
Deep dives
FKA Twigs and the Dance of Euphoria
FKA Twigs' new album, 'Eusexua,' draws inspiration from her late-night experiences in Prague's underground techno scene while filming 'The Crow.' The title itself is a blend of 'euphoria' and 'sexual,' reflecting the album's exploration of elation through dance music. While the album presents a techno-inspired sound, it also retains haunting qualities, showcasing the dual nature of pleasure and darkness in songs like 'Keep It, Hold It.' The latter half of the album transitions to a more sensual and vulnerable tone, particularly highlighted in the track 'Perfect Stranger,' which evokes a sense of communal joy surrounding shared experiences.
Central Sea's Rise in UK Rap
Central Sea's new album, 'Can't Rush Greatness,' marks his first official full-length effort, showcasing his rise in the UK rap scene. Known for his collaborations with major artists like Drake and Lil Baby, he has successfully blended influences from UK drill, reggae, and dancehall, creating a unique sound. The track 'GBP,' featuring 21 Savage, stands out for its introspective lyricism, reflecting the challenges and triumphs he faces in his career. His wordplay shines throughout the album, inviting listeners to engage with his storytelling and dynamic musicality.
Sam Amidon's Genre-Defying Folk
Sam Amidon’s album 'Salt River' reimagines traditional folk songs, merging them with modern sounds and psychedelic elements. His collaboration with multi-instrumentalist Sam Gindel results in a fresh take on Appalachian music, where tracks seamlessly transition between genres, highlighting Amidon's innovative approach. The record features surprising recontextualizations of songs, including covers of works by Lou Reed and Ornette Coleman, demonstrating his versatility and broad musical influences. Amidon's ability to defy genre boundaries creates a listening experience that feels both timeless and contemporary, inviting exploration among diverse sonic landscapes.
FKA twigs. Central Cee. It's a big week for new releases, and we've got you covered. Host Stephen Thompson welcomes Desiré Moses of Virginia public radio station WNRN to break it all down.