All Songs Considered

The hosts debate personal favorites versus songs that define the pandemic era. Jasmine Sullivan's haunting R&B track 'The Other Side' stands out, while Bo Burnham's 'That Funny Feeling' perfectly captures feelings of isolation. Stephen praises E's intimate 'Together Alone' and highlights the emotional depth in Olivia Rodrigo's breakout hits. The discussion also touches on indie artists like Girl in Red and Dodie, delving into mental health themes, alongside Joel Ortiz's vivid neighborhood storytelling. A celebration of 2021's rich musical landscape ensues.

Erin Wolf, a music journalist and Radio Milwaukee contributor, joins to discuss essential new album releases. They dive into Dove Ellis's debut, which compares him to giants like Jeff Buckley, and highlight Melody's Echo Chamber's lush, rejuvenated sound. Tom Smith's introspective solo effort gets praised for its emotional depth, while TEED's synth-pop brings nostalgic vibes, evoking Depeche Mode. The duo also explores the ambient techno of Voices from the Lake, providing perfect soundscapes for studying or winter walks.

This week features a vibrant mix of new music, delving into fresh albums that deserve recognition. Discover the re-imagined textures of a Mexico City band and the ethereal vocals of Diana Lopez. Experience the emotional depth of HUMBE's ambitious pop and the unique blend of Latin funk and Americana from René Lopez. Duplat adds a retro Colombian flair with 70s influences, while Ruben Ramos’s festive tribute adds a holiday spirit to the mix. It’s an eclectic journey through the sounds of various cultures!

Joining the discussion is Isabella Gomez-Sarmiento, a talented NPR Music reporter known for her insightful on-the-ground analysis. The conversation dives into whether 2025 was a standout year for music, featuring moments like Kendrick Lamar's electrifying Super Bowl performance. Topics include the cultural reverberations of Bad Bunny's album and the tumultuous impact of the Trump administration's actions on artists. The panel reflects on notable losses in music and the rise of viral phenomena, all while tackling the complexities of the industry's changing landscape.

Join Robin and Stephen as they reminisce about the musical gems of 2020. They spotlight Phoebe Bridgers' emotional tracks and dive into the urgency of Bad Moves' album. Chris Stapleton's reliability in country music shines through, while artists like Max Richter and Njimile deliver haunting melodies. The hosts fondly revisit the Chicks' impactful return and share personal stories from a year marked by its own challenges. Discover the standout songs that defined a year of both struggle and creativity in music!

Get ready for Record Store Day Black Friday with an exciting lineup of 177 new vinyl releases! Dive into Jesse Sykes' latest record and discover why Record Store Day matters so much to music lovers. Notable exclusives from stars like Post Malone and Billie Eilish are highlighted, along with can’t-miss archival gems from legends like Talking Heads and Miles Davis. Plus, hear personal stories from local record stores and why visiting them is a must for every music fan. It’s a vinyl lover’s paradise!

Hosts share touching stories and songs of gratitude from listeners, exploring why Thanksgiving is overlooked in holiday music. Highlights include Yo-Yo Ma and Alison Krauss's heartfelt rendition of 'Simple Gifts' and Bill Withers' empowering 'Lean On Me.' The Mountain Goats offer a mantra of hope, while Louis Armstrong's 'What A Wonderful World' reminds us of life's beauty. The conversation spans genres, featuring Nina Simone's reflections on regret and Bob Marley's uplifting 'Three Little Birds' to celebrate joy and community.

The hosts dive deep into Billie Eilish's 'Bury a Friend,' celebrating its haunting production by Finneas. They explore Tiny Ruins' 'School of Design,' praising its vivid storytelling. Other highlights include Ashley McBryde's perfect country anthem, 'One Night Standards,' and Lana Del Rey's mesmerizing tracks. They discuss the standout collaborative vibes of High Women's 'Crowded Table' and reflect on Ariana Grande's cultural phenomenon, 'Thank U, Next.' The conversation evokes nostalgia for the musical richness of 2019.

Justus Sanchez, a music presenter from KNKX in Seattle, joins Stephen Thompson to explore the latest tunes. They dive into Tobias Jesso Jr.'s emotional comeback, the folk revival with Haley Heynderickx's new album, and Sholto's cinematic jazz inspired by Greek myths. The duo also highlights Snarky Puppy’s orchestral collaboration and Odeal's sultry R&B vibes. In the lightning round, they recommend Keaton Henson‘s dynamic sound and the playful psychedelic rhythms of Magic Fig. Wrap it all up with tracks that truly resonate!

The Latin Grammys brought glitz and meaningful conversations about the industry's growth. Bad Bunny's Album of the Year win emphasized roots and unity, spotlighting emerging Puerto Rican talent in the process. Brazil's musical presence surged, with independent artists challenging cultural barriers. Lineker made waves with major nominations, while Chilean and Argentine acts gained visibility. The new roots category celebrated music honoring heritage, linking art to civic action. Smaller wins and personal moments rounded out the vibrant celebration.