All Songs Considered The Contenders, Vol. 14: Upchuck, Just Mustard, Brandon Woody, more
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Jun 24, 2025 Nate Chinen, the editorial director at WRTI and jazz aficionado, dives into this week’s musical highlights. He discusses Upchuck's raw energy in their single 'Plastic,' reflecting on fame's pressures. The soothing harmonies from the Westerlies' 'Paradise' showcase an innovative blend of genres. Just Mustard's ethereal 'Pollyanna' captures listeners, while Brandon Woody's emerging presence as a trumpeter with Blue Note Records marks a significant ascent. Tune in for reflections on impactful 2017 tracks, celebrating rich emotional connections through music.
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Upchuck’s Raw Musical Authority
- Upchuck's music shows raw authority and precise intent in hardcore punk style.
- The band’s DIY skater punk roots and support from icons like Iggy Pop reflect this authentic edge.
Bilingual Lyrics with Subtle Depth
- Upchuck includes English and Spanish lyrics that subtly address immigration issues.
- Their approach provokes thought without overt political messaging, enhancing the song's impact.
The Westerlies’ Sacred Brass Fusion
- The Westerlies fuse brass quartet with sacred harp singing, creating a unique spiritual sound.
- They bring reverberant acoustic techniques learned from natural spaces to enrich their arrangements.