All Songs Considered Our no. 1 songs: 2015
Oct 27, 2025
The hosts celebrate the return of guitar rock and rave about Courtney Barnett's energetic track, 'Pedestrian at Best.' Sufjan Stevens' 'Carrie & Lowell' is explored for its emotional depth, diving into themes of grief. Kendrick Lamar's 'To Pimp a Butterfly' earns praise for its ambitious storytelling, while Adele's 'Hello' is highlighted for its emotional resonance despite some critiques of her album. The cultural impact of Hamilton's cast recording is discussed, emphasizing its ability to bridge musical genres and attract diverse fans.
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Guitar Rock's Bold Return
- Courtney Barnett's "Pedestrian at Best" marked a surprising, loud guitar-rock moment from a conversational songwriter.
- Stephen Thompson says the song immediately felt like his song of the year for its grand, slamming choruses.
Unexpected Sonic Contrast
- Courtney Barnett's style contrasted conversational lyrics with explosive, Nirvana-tinged guitar moments.
- The hosts saw this as a zig when listeners expected a zag, enhancing its impact.
Intimacy Over Certainty
- Sufjan Stevens' Carrie & Lowell exposed raw intimacy as he wrestled publicly with his mother's death and his limits in speaking for her.
- Thompson and Hilton call the record breathtaking despite Sufjan's mixed feelings about its completeness.