The Contenders, Vol. 1: The songs we can't stop playing this week
Jan 7, 2025
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Hazel Cills, a music journalist and NPR Music contributor, dives into the latest musical gems. They discuss the emotional impact of tracks like 'Broken' by Ela Minus and 'Lighthouse' by Anna B Savage, highlighting each artist's journey. The infectious energy of Horse Girl's '2468' sparks conversations about euphoria and youthful connection. They also explore the vulnerability in Miya Folick's 'Perfect Stranger,' touching on themes of intimacy and heartbreak. Expect a vibrant celebration of creativity and authenticity in today’s music scene!
Ella Minus's song 'Broken' blends intense storytelling with expansive soundscapes, encouraging listeners to emotionally connect and dance away their worries.
Anna B. Savage's 'Lighthouse' uses metaphor to explore the complexity of relationships, emphasizing the importance of timeless themes in today's music landscape.
Deep dives
Ella Minus and the Evolution of Sound
Ella Minus showcases a dramatic evolution in her music with the release of her new album 'Dia,' particularly highlighted by the song 'Broken.' This track combines intense lyrical storytelling with an expansive sound that features a striking drop, enticing listeners to dance away their worries. The artist reflects on her nostalgic feelings from her teenage years, bringing a powerful and magical quality to the music that connects deeply with her audience. The song captures both intimacy and expansiveness, demonstrating the complexity of navigating emotions in a modern soundscape.
Anna B. Savage's Lighthouse Imagery
Anna B. Savage introduces a beautifully layered narrative in her song 'Lighthouse,' which is a part of her upcoming album 'You and I Are Earth.' This track uses the metaphor of a lighthouse to express a duality of being a guiding light while also being guided oneself. The lyrics evoke a sense of belonging and connection, complicating typical notions of romantic relationships as they reveal an intricate bond between partners. Savage expresses her concerns about the current music landscape being overwhelmed by fleeting trends and emphasizes the timeless quality of her work that resonates with enduring themes.
The Playfulness of Horse Girl
Horse Girl brings a vibrant sense of fun and spontaneity in their new album 'Phonetics On and On,' particularly through the song '2468.' The music feels organic and reminiscent of friends enjoying simple moments together, showcasing the joy of collaboration in the studio. This youthful spirit captures the essence of euphoria, reflecting a playful and unrefined energy that draws listeners in. The song highlights the band's discovery of their sound, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages listeners to join the celebration of music as a shared experience.
A new year means a new running list of our favorite songs, from the transfixing voice of Anna B Savage and FKA Twigs' moody club beats to the '80s-influenced rock and pop of Sharon Van Etten and more.
Featured artists and songs: 1. Ela Minus: "Broken," from DIA 2. Anna B Savage: "Lighthouse," from You & i are Earth 3. Horsegirl: "2468," from Phonetics On and On 4. Miya Folick: "This Time Around," from Erotica Veronica 5. FKA Twigs: "Perfect Stranger," from EUSEXUA 6. Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory: "Afterlife," from S/T
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Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org
Hear the songs in our Apple and Spotify playlists.