Nate Chinen, a music critic from WRTI known for his insights on jazz and diverse genres, joins the conversation. The duo examines Bartees Strange's emotional album 'Horror,' blending horror themes with resilience. They dive into Denison Witmer's indie influences and Marshall Allen's groundbreaking work at 100. The discussion expands to Sullivan Fortner's vibrant jazz style and John Patitucci's themes of unity in 'Spirit Fall.' Together, they celebrate the rich tapestry of new music released on February 14.
Bartees Strange's album 'Horror' artistically blends genres while exploring deep themes of identity and personal resilience through his unique sound.
Denison Witmer's 'Anything At All' showcases heartfelt songwriting and lush arrangements that evoke warmth and connection, influenced by Sufjan Stevens.
Deep dives
Bartise Strange's Genre-Bending Album
Bartise Strange's new album, titled Horror, showcases a unique blend of rock, hip-hop, and dance music, demonstrating a significant sonic density. His music invites listeners to explore the complexities of his psyche and personal experiences, including how horror movies shaped his resilience while growing up. The album's tracks maintain a catchy, sometimes danceable rhythm, yet they carry an unsettling undertone that aligns with the title. One standout song, '17,' illustrates themes of displacement and identity, where Strange candidly expresses feelings of alienation in various spaces.
Denison Whitmer's Heartfelt Reflections
Denison Whitmer's album, Anything At All, is characterized by warmth and connection, reminiscent of influences like Sufjan Stevens. The collaboration with Stevens showcases lush arrangements that elevate the emotional depth of the lyrics. Whitmer's longstanding career is marked by a commitment to crafting sincere, relatable music, and this album continues that legacy. The track 'A House With' highlights his ability to weave imagery and sentiment, offering listeners a cozy, reflective experience perfect for winter.
Marshall Allen's Historic Solo Album
At 100 years old, Marshall Allen released his first solo album, New Dawn, highlighting a lifetime of musical contributions, particularly with the Sun Ra Orchestra. This album features collaborations that blend his avant-garde jazz roots with accessible and emotionally resonant compositions. Allen's command of the alto saxophone and electronic wind instrument brings a unique texture to the music, while still embodying the spirit of his lifelong influences. The title track, which features Neneh Cherry, encapsulates the connectivity and artistic exploration present throughout the album.
Bartees Strange. Denison Witmer. The Sun Ra Arkestra's Marshall Allen. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson welcomes Nate Chinen of Philadelphia's WRTI to discuss the best new releases out on Valentine's Day.