All Songs Considered New Music Friday: The best albums out Sept. 5
Sep 5, 2025
Alisa Ali, host at WFUV and creator of the New York Slice segment, joins to discuss the latest music buzz. They dive into Big Thief's reflective album 'Double Infinity' and El Michels Affair's energetic '24 Hr Sports'. The conversation also touches on David Byrne's whimsical storytelling in 'Who Is The Sky?' and explores themes of alienation and vulnerability in contemporary music. They highlight a variety of artists, providing a vibrant picture of the new music landscape.
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Big Thief's Quiet Reset
- Big Thief's Double Infinity is a scaled-back, subtler record that rewards repeated listens.
- The trio explores harmonies and textures to make aging and change feel hopeful and philosophical.
Laraji Turns Big Thief Gentle
- Big Thief pivoted from an intended hard-rock direction to include ambient collaborator Laraji on the woozy track "Grandmother."
- Laraji's presence highlights the album's unexpected gentle textures and collaborative spirit.
El Michels' Global Studio Canvas
- Leon Michels built 24 Hour Sports as a producer's canvas with vintage sports-broadcast textures and global guest voices.
- He recruited singers from Brazil and Ghana and used those voices to keep the album cohesive and sunny.