This week dives into vibrant new releases like Jamie xx's energetic album 'In Waves' and Nubya Garcia's adventurous 'Odyssey.' Discover the Kansas City trio's eclectic blend of genres that echoes the 90s. There's also a thoughtful conversation about Bob Dylan's evolving artistry sparked by unreleased gems. Plus, the nostalgic exploration of bootlegs and the impact of streaming on music sharing adds depth to the discussion. Tune in for a journey through both fresh sounds and historical musical treasures!
Jamie XX's album 'In Waves' illustrates his artistic evolution, blending moody foundations with energetic beats and collaborative vocal performances.
Nubya Garcia's 'Odyssey' highlights her genre-blurring versatility, with intricate rhythms and unique instrumentation pushing the boundaries of jazz today.
Blackstarkids' 'Saturn Days' creatively explores identity and mortality through catchy melodies and thoughtful narratives that reflect cultural insights.
Deep dives
The Impact of Inflation on Daily Life
Inflation is significantly affecting everyday expenses, from gas prices to grocery bills. Consumers are feeling the strain of rising prices, leading to a greater awareness of budgeting and spending habits. This economic environment has compelled various businesses, including wireless service providers, to offer more attractive pricing to retain customers. It's a crucial time for individuals and families to evaluate their financial strategies.
Jamie XX's Musical Evolution
Jamie XX's latest album, In Waves, marks his return after a nine-year hiatus, presenting a blend of moody and energetic tracks. The album showcases his transition from down-tempo pieces, reminiscent of his work with The XX, to more aggressive, club-ready sounds. Notably, the collaboration with Robin highlights her unique vocal style, gradually transitioning from a robotic delivery to an emotional and melodic performance. This evolution in sound illustrates Jamie's growth as an artist, embracing both his roots and new influences.
Nubaya Garcia's Versatile Sound
Nubaya Garcia's album, Odyssey, exemplifies her versatility as an artist by fusing various genres, including jazz, R&B, and electronic influences. The album features dynamic performances from her trio, especially highlighting the exceptional drumming of Sam Jones, which incorporates intricate rhythms often rooted in UK drum and bass. Notable tracks like 'Solstice' exhibit innovative drum techniques, creating a unique sound that pushes genre boundaries. Garcia's use of strings adds depth to her music, reclaiming their role in jazz as more than just embellishments.
Exploring the Unique Sound of Black Star Kids
Black Star Kids' album, Saturn Days, melds various musical styles, drawing influences from classic hip-hop to contemporary pop. The band demonstrates a distinctive songwriting approach that challenges traditional structures while seamlessly blending different genres. Their concept album explores themes of identity and mortality, offering a thoughtful narrative that examines perceptions of young Black artists in music today. The depth of their lyrics, combined with catchy melodies, reflects both self-awareness and an exploration of cultural narratives.
The Allure of Unofficial Music Releases
Unofficial releases, including bootlegs and demos, create a unique relationship between artists and fans by offering raw and unfiltered glimpses into the creative process. These recordings often carry a sense of intrigue and exclusivity, enhancing their appeal among collectors. The discussion around these unofficial materials highlights the ongoing evolution of music consumption, emphasizing how streaming has changed the game. Despite the many changes, the thrill of discovering rare or unreleased music remains a cherished experience for enthusiasts.
NPR Music's Daoud Tyler-Ameen and Lars Gotrich provide a guide the most exciting new releases out today. This week, the selections include some recordings that are new and some that are as much as a half-century old, verging on mythological.
The producer Jamie xx began his career as a teenager making beats for the moody electronic band The xx. His solo recordings, including the new album In Waves, have tapped into a higher energy and a wider range of sounds. The saxophonist Nubya Garcia's new album, Odyssey, is as adventurous as the title sounds. And the Kansas City-based Blackstarkids swing between electronic pop, hip-hop and indie rock sounds that feel like they stepped off a time machine directly from the 1990s.
Plus: A pair of releases that package previously unreleased material by Bob Dylan and Galaxie 500 sparks a conversation about bootlegs, alternate versions and other rare and unreleased favorites.
