This week’s guest is Robert Moore, host of Sonic Spectrum on 90.9 The Bridge, renowned for his eclectic taste in underground rock. He and Stephen Thompson dive into the rich offerings of new music, including Sharon Van Etten's latest album and Adrian Crowley's emotional depth in 'Measure of Joy.' They explore Nadia Reid's growth during the pandemic, discuss Squid's innovative sound, and celebrate the vibrant debut of Jojo Orme, showcasing the dynamic evolution of the music scene.
Sharon Van Etten's self-titled album exhibits a dynamic blend of synth rock influenced by her collaborative live studio recordings, enhancing emotional depth.
Adrian Crowley's 'Measure of Joy' presents a masterful blend of haunting lyrics and introspection, uniquely expressing the interplay of darkness and light.
Deep dives
Sharon Van Etten's Evolving Sound
Sharon Van Etten's new self-titled album showcases her transition to a more dynamic sound, featuring a blend of synth rock elements. Collaborating closely with her band, the recording process embraced a live studio feel that enhances the album's energy and emotional depth. Critics have drawn comparisons between her work and that of Bruce Springsteen, highlighting her growth as an artist. Tracks like 'Trouble' echo the early sounds of Annie Lennox while also evoking the spirit of the iconic Eurythmics, as parts of the album were recorded in their former studio, enriching its sonic landscape.
Adrian Crowley's Poetic Depth
Adrian Crowley's latest offering, 'Measure of Joy,' reveals a blend of haunting beauty and thoughtful resignation, characteristic of his poetic songwriting. Although often compared to legendary figures like Leonard Cohen and David Berman, Crowley stands out by capturing the complex interplay of darkness and light in his lyrics. His track 'Tangled' presents a dreamscape exploration of the psyche, while 'Cherry Blossom Soft Confetti' closes the album on an unexpectedly uplifting note. The thematic depth of this record, combined with production by John Parrish, contributes to a sound that's both elegant and reflective.
Heartworms' Unique Sound Fusion
Heartworms' debut album, 'Glutton for Punishment,' features an eclectic mix of post-punk and electro pop that showcases the band’s creative potential. Led by Jojo Orme, the record reflects her diverse cultural background and personal struggles, contributing to a sound that is both intriguing and multi-layered. Songs like 'Warplane' reveal a sense of urgency and a blend of passionate storytelling with an experimental edge. This debut marks a significant step for Orme, positioning her as an artistic voice worth paying attention to in the contemporary music scene.
Sharon Van Etten headlines this week's new releases, but she's just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. On this episode, NPR Music's Stephen Thompson welcomes Robert Moore of Kansas City public radio station 90.9 The Bridge, where Robert hosts the underground rock show Sonic Spectrum.
Check out our long list of Feb. 7 releases and stream our New Music Friday playlist on npr.org.
CREDITS:
• Hosts: Stephen Thompson and Robert Moore (90.9 The Bridge) • Producer: Simon Rentner • Editor: Otis Hart • Executive Producer: Suraya Mohamed • Vice President, Music and Visuals: Keith Jenkins