NPR Music's Ann Powers and Lars Gotrich guide listeners through the best new releases, including albums by Arooj Aftab and Shaboozey. They discuss the fusion of hip hop and country music, innovative genre-blending tracks, and critique consumer capitalism in Richard Thompson's album. The episode highlights diverse music releases from experimental hip hop to bluegrass, urging listeners to explore new sounds.
Wide range of genres in new music releases, from rock to hip hop and Americana.
Innovative fusion of country and hip hop in Shibuzi's album 'Where I've Been Isn't Where I'm Going'.
Diverse mix of experimental sounds and poetic songwriting in this week's albums.
Deep dives
Diverse Music Highlights
This week's new music releases offer a wide range of genres and styles. Richard Thompson's latest album, 'Ship to Shore', showcases his expertly crafted rock sound. Dose Manos, an experimental hip hop trio from Tokyo, infuses new metal guitars with Madlib-inspired production on their album 'Dose Atmos'. Anna Tivel's 'Living Thing' features adult-oriented pop with synth touches, capturing poignant moments in everyday life. Swamp Dog's 'Blackgrass' brings a fun twist to bluegrass with eclectic guest collaborations.
Country Music Evolution
The country music scene continues to evolve with artists like Chris Hausmann, blending classic '90s country vibes with a queer perspective in 'Blue Neck'. Shibuzi's chart-topping success marks a shift in merging hip hop and country genres. Through their album 'Where I've Been Isn't Where I'm Going', Shibuzi presents a fresh take on country music, infusing it with hip hop elements for a new sound.
Experimental and Folk Sounds
Exploring experimental sounds and folk influences, 'Here the Children Sing, The Evidence' by Bonnie Prince Billy, Nathan Salzberg, and Tyler Trotter offers a unique blend of lullaby-inspired melodies intertwined with cryptic and dream-like lyrics. Robin Holcomb's 'One Way or Another, Volume Two' showcases a poetic and eclectic mix of Americana, jazz, and new music, providing deeply moving songwriting.
Diverse Musical Offerings
From exciting punk roots in 'Unbilical' by Bao, to the genre-defying 'Flying Away' by Jon Mook, this week's music releases offer a diverse range of sounds. 'Doggy Patlin Through the Cosmic Consciousness' by Sike Temple delves into metaphysical themes, while 'Beak's' latest album 'Source 4 Symbols' merges psychedelic rock elements with heady grooves. The eclectic mix of albums promises an engaging listening experience.
Closing Remarks and Future Anticipation
The podcast episode wraps up with a reflection on the music featured, expressing excitement for the array of new releases and urging listeners to explore the captivating sounds presented. The hosts sign off with anticipation for the next week's musical discoveries and encourage engaging with the diverse selection of artists and genres discussed.
NPR Music's Ann Powers and Lars Gotrich are your guides to this week's new releases.
Featured albums: • Arooj Aftab, 'Night Reign' • Shaboozey, 'Where I've Been, isn't Where I'm Going' • Bonnie "Prince" Billy, Nathan Salsburg & Tyler Trotter, 'Hear the Children Sing The Evidence'
Other notable albums out May 31: • Richard Thompson, 'Ship To Shore' • Dos Monos, 'Dos Atomos' • Anna Tivel, 'Living Thing' • Beak>, '>>>>' • Swamp Dogg, 'Blackgrass' • Thou, 'Umbilical' • Chris Housman, 'Blueneck' • Psychic Temple, 'Doggie Paddlin' Thru the Cosmic Consciousness' • John Muq, 'Flying Away' • Robin Holcomb, 'One Way or Another, Vol. 2'