Daoud Tyler-Ameen and Ann Powers discuss Luke Combs' new album 'Fathers & Sons' for Father's Day. They delve into Raveena's album blending pop and R&B, and talk about the official release of a 1974 Paul McCartney & Wings bootleg. Other notable albums mentioned include Normani's 'Dopamine' and PJ Morton's 'Cape Town to Cairo'.
Luke Combs' album 'Fathers & Sons' explores fatherhood and country music evolution.
Normani's 'Dopamine' showcases empowering lyrics and vocal versatility in a solo debut.
PJ Morton's 'Cape Town to Cairo' blends African influences into vibrant and eclectic soundscapes.
Deep dives
Luke Combs: Redefining Country Music
Luke Combs, a rising artist in the country music scene, is redefining the genre by incorporating traditional country elements while fearlessly addressing challenging issues. Combs' evolution as an artist reflects a 21st-century take on country music, blending bluegrass and classic country influences. Known for his pristine sound and tackling difficult topics like social issues, Combs' music embodies a progressive stance, resonating with audiences globally.
Normani's Debut Album 'Dopamine'
Normani, known for her time with Fifth Harmony, debuts her solo album 'Dopamine.' With a mix of bold beats and catchy melodies, Normani showcases her vocal prowess and versatility in this highly anticipated album. From infectious rhythms to empowering lyrics, 'Dopamine' marks Normani's strong entry as a solo artist, captivating listeners with her dynamic sound.
PJ Morton's Musical Journey in 'Cape Town to Cairo'
PJ Morton embarks on a musical journey across Africa in his latest album 'Cape Town to Cairo.' Collaborating with local musicians, Morton blends gospel, R&B, and pop influences, creating a vibrant and eclectic travelogue of soundscapes. Recorded on the spot in Africa, Morton's album captures the essence of each destination while infusing his signature style into every track.
Paul McCartney and Wings: 'One Hand Clapping'
Paul McCartney's archival release 'One Hand Clapping' unveils a live studio recording of Wings at a pivotal moment in their musical journey. With McCartney's eclectic repertoire ranging from rock classics to Beatles hits, the album captures the band's raw energy and versatility. McCartney's playful lyrics and expansive musical expressions showcase his timeless artistry and ability to captivate audiences.
Jess Cornelius' 'caretaking': Exploring Change and Motherhood
Jess Cornelius' album 'caretaking' delves into themes of change, new motherhood, and environmental concerns, offering introspective insights through her poignant songwriting. With a blend of Beatlesque pop influences and razor-sharp storytelling, Cornelius crafts a compelling narrative of personal growth and societal reflection. Embracing vulnerability and emotional depth, 'caretaking' showcases Cornelius' artistic evolution and engagement with pressing issues.
Sadler Vaden's 'Dad Rock': A Musical Tribute to Fatherhood
Guitarist Sadler Vaden shines in his album 'Dad Rock,' celebrating the essence of fatherhood through a nostalgic and heartfelt musical journey. Infusing classic rock elements with personal reflections, Vaden's album resonates with listeners as a heartfelt tribute to the joys and challenges of parenthood. With a blend of musical homage and personal storytelling, 'Dad Rock' captures the essence of familial bonds and the transformative journey of fatherhood.
This week, NPR Music's Daoud Tyler-Ameen and Ann Powers steer the New Music Friday podcast straight into the oncoming Father's Day weekend, following the lead of country superstar Luke Combs, whose new album Fathers & Sons is a heartfelt meditation on what it means to fill both of those roles. It's Combs' first album since his cover of Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car" landed him on the pop charts last year.
Also this week: Raveena, whose won over many fans at NPR Music with her 2022 album Asha's Awakening, excavates the sounds of millennial pop and R&B on Where the Butterflies Go in the Rain and a long-celebrated 1974 bootleg of Paul McCartney and Wings playing live in the studio gets an official release.
Featured Albums: • Luke Combs, 'Fathers & Sons' • Raveena, 'Where the Butterflies Go in the Rain' • Paul McCartney & Wings, 'One Hand Clapping'
Other notable albums out June 14: • The Decemberists, 'As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again' • Normani, 'Dopamine' • PJ Morton, 'Cape Town to Cairo' • This is Lorelei, 'Box for Buddy, Box for Star' • Jess Cornelius, 'Care/Taking' • Sadler Vaden, 'Dad Rock' • Don Tolliver, 'Hardstone Psycho' • Hermanos Gutiérrez, 'Sonido Cósmico' • Sam Morton, 'Daffodils & Dirt' • John Cale, 'POPtical Illusion' • Isobel Campbell, 'Bow to Love' • John Grant, 'The Art of the Lie' • Lalah Hathaway, 'VANTABLACK' • Moby, 'always centered at night' • Zsela, 'Big For You'
