Join John Morrison, host of WXPN’s Culture Cypher Radio, as he navigates the vibrant world of new music. He debates whether The Weeknd's latest release truly stands out among other key albums. They dive into Cymande's 'Renaissance' and its genre-blending history,Ambrose Akinmusire's emotionally rich 'honey from a winter stone', and Pink Siifu's experimental 'BLACK!ANTIQUE' that challenges mainstream norms. Morrison's eclectic insights and keen ear make for an engaging exploration of today's musical landscape.
The Weeknd's album 'Hurry Up Tomorrow' culminates his trilogy, reflecting his artistic evolution and dominance in the modern music scene.
Cymande's 'Renascence' marks their return after years, blending genres and pushing traditional song boundaries with immersive, lengthy tracks.
Deep dives
The Weeknd's Latest Triumph
The Weeknd's new album, 'Hurry Up Tomorrow,' marks the completion of his trilogy, following 'After Hours' and 'Dawn FM.' This double album builds on the success of its predecessors, showcasing his evolution as an artist. Early singles from the album, such as 'Dancing in the Flame,' have already captured significant attention, demonstrating his continued ability to craft compelling and catchy sounds. The anticipation surrounding this release underlines The Weeknd's stature as one of the most influential hitmakers of the 21st century.
Simande's Vibrant Return
Simande's new album, 'Renaissance,' represents their first release in many years and a thrilling return to the music scene. The British Caribbean funk band blends genres such as funk, soul, reggae, and jazz, showcasing their unique sound that deeply influenced early hip-hop. The album features tracks that are lengthy and immersive, pushing the boundaries of traditional song structures; the shortest song is eight minutes long, totaling over an hour of music. Collaborations with contemporary artists, including guest vocals from Celeste, illustrate how Simande skillfully merges their classic influences with modern elements.
Ambrose Akinmusire's Reflective Journey
Ambrose Akinmusire's album, 'Honey from Winterstone,' explores complex emotional themes through a fusion of jazz, hip-hop, and spoken word. It opens with 'Muffled Screams,' a 15-minute piece reflecting Akinmusire's near-death experience, co-created with vocalist Kokai, who improvised lyrics around the story. The album's structure showcases a blend of reflective and energetic compositions, drawing listeners into a rich auditory experience that evolves throughout each track. This deeply personal album is referred to by Akinmusire as a self-portrait, emphasizing its profound significance and artistic depth.
The Weeknd may be the biggest release of the week, but is it the best? We run down five other albums you should hear, with NPR Music's Stephen Thompson and John Morrison, host of Culture Cypher Radio on partner station WXPN.