In this discussion, Ann Powers, an NPR Music critic, reflects on the fate of Pitchfork and the importance of diverse voices in music journalism. Kyle Chayka, a New Yorker staff writer, critiques how algorithms shape music discovery, often sacrificing quality for quantity. Mark Henry Phillips, a composer, reveals how AI music generators challenge traditional music creation, raising ethical concerns about artists' futures. Together, they explore the intersection of technology and creativity, questioning the future of musical authenticity.

Join Daoud Tyler-Ameen, an enthusiastic music curator, and Ann Powers, a seasoned music critic, as they dive into the hottest new albums released on September 6. They discuss LL Cool J's insightful lyrical depth and evolving collaboration with Q-Tip. The conversation further explores MJ Lenderman's introspective storytelling and Nala Sinephro's ties to the UK jazz scene. With highlights from Toro Y Moi's 'Whole Earth' and reflections on rising stars, this is a captivating journey through the latest musical innovations.

Daoud Tyler-Ameen, an NPR Music contributor, and Ann Powers, a music critic, welcome SOPHIE, a groundbreaking Scottish electronic producer, and Alan Sparhawk of Low, who navigates grief in his solo work. They explore the emotional journey of loss in new albums, including SOPHIE’s posthumous release and Sparhawk's tribute to his late wife. The dialogue also highlights the adventurous releases from artists like Mustafa and Billy Strings, showcasing innovative sounds and deep themes of mortality in contemporary music.

Daoud Tyler-Ameen, a seasoned music journalist, and Ann Powers, a gripping music critic, dive into the rich new releases of August 9. They spotlight Ravyn Lenae's focused R&B and the eclectic sounds of King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard. Discussion on Ryuichi Sakamoto's poignant final work injects depth, while esperanza spalding and Milton Nascimento's collaboration symbolizes the beauty of generational partnerships. They also analyze the evolving landscape of music, emphasizing the significance of female expression in rap and intergenerational dialogues.

Daoud Tyler-Ameen and Ann Powers discuss Luke Combs' new album 'Fathers & Sons' for Father's Day. They delve into Raveena's album blending pop and R&B, and talk about the official release of a 1974 Paul McCartney & Wings bootleg. Other notable albums mentioned include Normani's 'Dopamine' and PJ Morton's 'Cape Town to Cairo'.

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.

Rodney Carmichael, Nate Chinen, and Ann Powers discuss the best albums of 2023. They explore the association between intimacy and rawness in music, dissect an album with jazz influences, and highlight surprising departures by artists. The hosts also delve into Corin Bailey Ray's impactful album and a record with dirty southern sounds. The podcast concludes with reflections on the year and upcoming content.

In this engaging discussion, singer-songwriter MILCK, famous for her powerful anthem "Quiet," teams up with NPR’s Ann Powers, a critic known for exploring music's role in social issues. They examine how artists like Cher and Olivia Rodrigo have responded to the Supreme Court's decision on reproductive rights. MILCK reveals the inspiration behind her new song, "We Won’t Go Back," crafted from the energy of protests. The duo also dives into the rich history of music as a medium for protest and solidarity in women's rights, making this conversation truly impactful.

Music critics Ann Powers and Daoud Tyler-Ameen highlight standout albums released on July 12, discussing Sturgill Simpson's evolving sound, Cassandra Jenkins' emotional songwriting, Eminem's foray into 70s folk rock, and the diverse array of new music across various genres.

NPR's Ann Powers and Sheldon Pearce join critic Christina Lee and host Robin Hilton to countdown the top 10 albums of 2022, as selected by the NPR Music team, contributors and partner stations.See NPR Music's list of the top 50 albums from 2022 and more.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy