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Sheldon Pearce

Music critic and NPR contributor who discusses songs that calm the nerves, often focusing on production, momentum, and emotional impact of tracks.

Top 10 podcasts with Sheldon Pearce

Ranked by the Snipd community
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20 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 55min

Summer '25 Album Preview

NPR Music's Sheldon Pearce teams up with Celia Gregory, host at WNXP in Nashville, to dive into the most anticipated summer albums. They spotlight Wet Leg’s evolving sound and discuss artists like Marissa Nadler and Superchunk, emphasizing emotional resonance and authenticity. The talk includes the shift of Indigo De Souza to pop and Lucrecia Dalt's personal themes. The vibrant jazz collective Kokoroko also gets a mention, showcasing the blend of modern sounds and traditional roots. They wrap up with a nostalgic nod to memorable songs from 2015.
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15 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 46min

New songs to calm the nerves: 2025

Dora Levite, a music journalist and NPR Music contributor, joins Sheldon Pearce, a music critic, to explore calming new music releases. They discuss how breathing techniques enhance relaxation while listening to soothing tracks. Sheldon explains the magic of repetitive sounds, while Dora highlights the world-building ambiance of Cassandra Jenkins' music. They also touch on the cathartic release found in aggressive tunes and the importance of reclaiming small joys through comforting songs. This warm-hearted conversation is a perfect soundtrack for unwinding.
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10 snips
Apr 26, 2024 • 38min

New Music Friday: The best albums out April 26

NPR Music's Daoud Tyler-Ameen and Sheldon Pearce discuss new albums from St. Vincent, Charley Crockett, Iron & Wine. They explore the evolution of Iron & Wine's sound, the themes in the lead single 'Lead the Way', and the fusion of electronic and classical influences in new music. Explore a variety of upcoming albums from diverse genres.
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Mar 12, 2024 • 51min

Spring preview 2024

Listen to discussions about highly anticipated albums releasing this spring, including works by Vampire Weekend, Waxahatchee, and Portishead's Beth Gibbons. Explore the evolving sounds of different artists and get excited about the diverse range of music genres coming soon.
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Mar 11, 2025 • 42min

The Contenders, Vol. 6: The songs we can't stop playing this week

Sheldon Pearce, a music journalist celebrating contemporary sounds, joins to discuss the latest tracks that resonate deeply amid today's chaos. They explore the emotional highs and lows in artists like yeule and Gordi, reflecting on how music expresses vulnerability and connection. A nostalgic journey takes them back to 2005, recalling iconic songs that shaped an era, while themes of love and hope in Raveena's work offer uplifting vibes. Tune in for a mix of new releases and heartfelt discussions that bridge the past and present.
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Mar 29, 2024 • 42min

New Music Friday: The best albums out March 29

NPR Music's Sheldon Pearce and critic Ann Powers discuss Beyoncé's Act II: Cowboy Carter album, along with other new releases like Reyna Tropical and Kelly Moran. They explore the emotional depth of the albums, blending country and modern pop, and reflecting on joy amidst looming threats. Ann also highlights feminist movement history in music releases.
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Oct 28, 2025 • 40min

The Contenders, Vol. 23: Brandi Carlile, Blood Orange, Magdalena Bay, more

NPR Music editor Sheldon Pearce shares his insights on the latest music trends with host Robin Hilton. They dive into Brandi Carlile's electrifying stadium anthem, 'Church & State,' exploring its political punch and 80s rock nostalgia. The duo also discusses Hannah Francis's genre-defying track 'The Space Between,' showcasing its unique soundscapes. Additionally, they highlight Blood Orange's poignant 'The Last of England,' reflecting on themes of grief and identity. Expect an exciting mix of fresh sounds and heartfelt storytelling!
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May 24, 2024 • 43min

New Music Friday: The best albums out May 24

NPR Music's Nate Chinen and Sheldon Pearce review Carlos Niño's ambient-jazz album 'Placenta' touching on themes of pregnancy. They also discuss DIIV's shoegaze-inspired sound and Andrew Bird's jazz tribute. Other albums include Tiny Habits, Vince Staples, and Alex Sipiagin. The podcast ads focus on health, travel insurance, and online learning.
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Apr 12, 2024 • 46min

New Music Friday: The best albums out April 12

NPR Music contributor Sheldon Pearce and WRTI host Nate Chinen discuss new album releases, including Maggie Rogers and Shabaka Hutchings. They explore emotional performances, the impact of first-take recordings, Liz Wright's latest album depth, and the theme of openness in Layla McCallis's music.
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Mar 1, 2024 • 46min

New Music Friday: The best albums out March 1

In this episode, Ann Powers and Sheldon Pearce discuss the unique personalities embodied in new music albums, from Faye Webster's blend of Americana and R&B to Sheer Mag's evolution in sound. They also touch on releases by ScHoolboy Q, Julian Lage, and other artists, showcasing a diverse range of musical styles and influences.

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