Agelast Podcast

More than any song we’ve covered yet in this series about songs that persist in culture, "Crimson and Clover" is a stealth classic. Maybe you heard it in 1968 after its rough mix was leaked by a radio station and it became a top-40 hit. Maybe you only know it from a popular rock ’n’ roll cover in 1980s, or when it became a singalong in an emo song in the 2000s. Maybe it’s not even the lyrics that you recognize, but those three heavy, insistent chords. But it’s a song that’s stuck around, that feels endlessly replayable, and that helped inspire the new name for this NPR Music series: “Over and Over.” This week on Over and Over, NPR Music critic Ann Powers and editor Daoud Tyler-Ameen discuss “Crimson and Clover” by Tommy James and the Shondells, from 1968. Check out more episodes on songs that keep coming back by looking for “Over and Over” in the NPR Music podcast feed. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one by signing up at plus.npr.org. Follow NPR Music coverage…

Last week we published a Tiny Desk Concert that ended up being unusual for a few reasons. First of all, it was the final production of our sixth annual El Tiny series. This was a very emotional moment for a lot of reasons. People really love Los Tigres del Norte, to the point that playing their albums feels like sitting with family. And if you’ve seen the introduction I gave the band just before they played at the desk you can see that I wasn’t embarrassed to get emotional when I talked about what the band means to me. That emotional intro led to some changes in our process and format that resulted in a huge response from the audience that went viral. The result was a messy moment behind the scenes here at NPR and more than a little confusion for a lot of you. This week’s episode looks back at last week. First we want to share with you, directly from us, an explanation of what happened. But mostly we want to put the spotlight back on the band and their music because for decades they have been bringing out…

With the arrival of the first new Olivia Tremor Control album in nearly 30 years, we attempt to make sense of the sprawling, enigmatic collective behind it known as Elephant 6. NPR Music’s Lars Gotrich joins host Robin Hilton. Special thanks to Greenwich Entertainment, C.B. Stockfleth and Rob Hatch-Miller for use of audio featured in the 2022 documentary, The Elephant 6 Recording Co. Featured artists and songs: (00:00) Intro with “A New Day” by The Olivia Tremor Control (03:00) The Elephant 6 story in 60 seconds with “Black Foliage (Animation 2)” by The Olivia Tremor Control (04:28) The Apples In Stereo: “Tidal Wave” (07:34) Robert Schneider on the creative process, from the documentary ‘The Elephant 6 Recording Co.’ (12:39) The Olivia Tremor Control: “Love Athena” (16:17) The Apples In Stereo: “Glowworm” (18:14) Neutral Milk Hotel: “Ghost” (22:13) Elf Power: “Embrace The Crimson Tide” (26:08) of Montreal: “Gallery Piece” (29:25) The Gerbils: “Glue” (33:54) The Instruments: “Song for Thomas” (37:01) Beulah:…

Fontaines D.C. Sophia Stel. The Avalanches. Host Stephen Thompson breaks down the best albums out Friday, Oct. 16 with DJs from around the NPR Music network: Celia Gregory from WNXP in Nashville, Skylar Rochelle from 90.9 The Bridge in Kansas City and Andrew Brown from KUTX in Austin. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (02:23) Album No. 1 - Fontaines D.C., 'Dopamine Chamber' (09:30) Album No. 2 - @, 'Autosmile' (16:34) Album No. 3 - Sophia Stel, 'the greatest album of all time' (23:05) Album No. 4 - June McDoom, 'Follow the Light' (28:32) Album No. 5 - The Avalanches, 'No Bad Memories' (35:53) The Lightning Round - N8NOFACE, 'Tomorrow's World' - Richard Thompson, 'Hippies, Thugs and Heroes' - Max Richter, 'While The Flood Rages' - Chuwi, 'Libertad' - Flora Hibberd, 'Mammoth' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist. Credits: Host: Stephen Thompson Guests: Celia Gregory, Skylar Rochelle, Andrew Brown Audio Producer:…

The Tiny Desk’s magnetism is its intimacy. We strip back lights and a big stage and get to see artists speak honestly about who they are directly to an audience around the world. This becomes all the more profound during our El Tiny takeover of Latin Music Month, where artists whisper truths and share secrets about community, country, pain and family. Often on production days, artists share with us the importance of each individual song — the stories behind them and why they needed to be played in such an honest space. So, this week on Alt.Latino we wanted to let you all in on the secrets. Alex Ferreira, Draco Rosa and Los Tigres del Norte shared in their own words, what their Tiny Desk songs meant to them. Hopefully, learning what’s behind the songs will help each show mean a little bit more for all of you, too. Artists and songs featured in this episode: Mon Laferte, "No Le Regales Tu Corazón" Alex Ferreira, "Monte Adentro" Draco Rosa, "Vagabundo" Los Tigres del Norte, "Somos Más Americanos" You can watch…

Who’s the Mariah Carey of Halloween? Labels and artists are trying to capitalize on spooky season, but these are the songs that belong in the creepy canon, from the truly terrifying to simply seasonal and nostalgic. Note: An earlier version of this episode appeared on All Songs Considered in 2025. Tell us what you think with a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Featured artists and songs: Phoebe Bridgers: “Killer” from ‘Stranger in the Alps’ Fever Ray: “If I Had A Heart,” from ‘Fever Ray’ Sufjan Stevens: “John Wayne Gacy, Jr” from ‘Illinois’ Jack Lenz: “Goosebumps” (theme from the TV show) Disneyland Records: “Chilling, Thrilling Sounds of the Haunted House” Alice Cooper: “Welcome to My Nightmare,” from ‘Welcome to My Nightmare’ Oksana Linde: “Horizontes lejanos,” from ‘Travesias’ Florence + the Machine: “Everybody Scream,” from ‘Everybody Scream’ Ethel Cain: “Housofpsychoticwomn,” from…

At almost exactly the midpoint of our conversation about the fifth album made by his band, Fontaines D.C., Grian Chatten told me, “It's an interesting time to be a self.” We'd been talking about the themes on 'Dopamine Chamber,' which comes out on Oct. 16, and could serve as a soundtrack to the era we live in now, what Chatten calls our “glorious age of distraction.” It's also an interesting time to be a rock band in the mainstream, and that’s where Fontaines D.C., which formed in 2014, definitely lives these days. The Irish quintet’s next tour has them in stadiums and arenas, and the one guest on 'Dopamine Chamber' is pop's universal “it” girl, the Spanish singer Rosalía. The 2024 album Romance took Fontaines to another level, earning them two Grammy nominations and their best sales ever, with hits like the sweet and earnest “Favourite.” Following it up, Fontaines didn't take the easy way. Instead, they explored new sounds to create a captivating sonic travelogue that somehow connects the decadent beauty of…

Troye Sivan’s 2023 album, 'Something to Give Each Other,' marked a turning point in the Australian singer-songwriter’s career. Its choreo-driven singles “Rush” and “Got Me Started” became viral hits, earned Sivan his first Grammy nominations and even spawned a Timothée Chalamet and boygenius spoof on Saturday Night Live. Soon after came the Sweat tour with friend and peer Charli xcx amid the hype of “Brat” summer. But while Sivan says it was a thrilling moment in his career, it also didn’t paint a full picture of what he was going through at the end of his 20s. His new album, 'She’s the Best,' gives the artist breathing room to dig into some darker feelings. Sivan sat down with NPR Music reporter Isabella Gomez Sarmiento to talk about honoring the women in his life, moving away from perfect pop music and making an “unsexy” album that reflects his true feelings. This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell and edited by Hazel Cills. NPR Music’s chief editor is Jacob Ganz. Our executive producer is…

Cameron Winter. Troye Sivan. Remi Wolf. Host Stephen Thompson breaks down the best albums out Friday, Oct. 9 with DJs from around the NPR Music network: Tshego Letsoalo from KALW in San Francisco, Aurora McGuckin from MVYRADIO in Massachusetts and Jewly Hight from WPLN in Nashville. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (00:39) Album No. 1 - Cameron Winter, 'Live at Carnegie Hall' (07:30) Album No. 2 - Troye Sivan, 'She's the Best' (14:45) Album No. 3 - Remi Wolf, 'Mud' (21:11) Album No. 4 - Jess Williamson, 'A Mile South of Heaven' (27:20) Album No. 5 - Danielle Ponder, 'Everything Has Changed' (34:40) The Lightning Round - Dawn Richard, 'creole culture' - Margo Cilker, 'Little White Cross' - Imperial Teen, 'All Over You' - heavensouls, 'cantu of the sower' - Joyce Wrice, 'Machiko' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist. Credits: Host: Stephen Thompson Guests: Tshego Letsoalo, Aurora McGuckin, Jewly Hight Audio…

The music of Tim Bernardes fits as easily in the poetry of the cosmos as it does in the songwriting canon of his country. Brazil has a legacy of some of the greatest most intricate, emotional songwriting there is, and if you ask me, I’d argue Tim fits right into it. So, I invited him in to play a Tiny Desk for our annual El Tiny takeover. And, of course, I took the opportunity to pull him into the studio after – I absolutely needed to know what he’s been listening to. So, here we are again playing my latest and greatest new game: a special version of our typical guest DJ episode, where I ask them to recall different parts of their lives and themselves through music. No prepared songs or ideas. Let’s call this episode a musical tapestry painted by one of the greatest Brazilian singer-songwriters of this era. - Anamaria Sayre Artists and songs mentioned in this episode: - The Beatles, 'I Want To Hold Your Hand' - Os Mutantes, 'Caminhante Noturno' - Milton Nascimento, 'Nuvem Cigana' - Nelson Cavaquinho, 'Eu E…

A super deluxe box set of The Beatles' legendary 1965 album Rubber Soul has just been released with brand new mixes, demos and outtakes that show The Beatles breaking up with the past, their fans and everything people knew and loved about the band. In this conversation with All Songs Considered host Robin Hilton, Giles Martin, the producer behind the new mixes and son of late Beatles producer George Martin, talks about why Rubber Soul was such a pivotal album for the band, how the music was changing, and why it sounds “reasonably bleak.” Martin also explains how the AI tools he used to update the mixes work, how he preserved the original spirit of Rubber Soul and more. Tell us what you think with a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at…

Victoria Monét. Meshell Ndegeocello. Sons of Sevilla. Host Stephen Thompson breaks down the best albums out Friday, Oct. 2, with DJs from around the NPR Music network: Ayana Contreras from KUVO in Denver, Evan Miller from WYSO in Ohio and DJ Llu from Vermont Public. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (01:53) Album No. 1 - Victoria Monét, 'Frequency Of Love' (08:40) Album No. 2 - Meshell Ndegeocello, 'Synonym' (15:28) Album No.3 - Helen, 'Linda's Head' (22:09) Album No. 4 - Wishy, 'Nature's Pill' (28:36) Album No. 5 - Sons of Sevilla, 'It Could Be Today' (34:27 The Lightning Round - Greg Freeman, 'All Set the Bone' - Miranda Lambert, 'Crisco' - Allison de Groot & Rich Ruth, 'Allison de Groot & Rich Ruth' - Lalah Hathaway, 'Made in Chicago' - Beth Taylor, 'The Deeps Have Music' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist. Credits: Host: Stephen Thompson Guests: Ayana Contreras, Evan Miller, DJ Llu Audio Producer: Noah…

Jazz has often been called America's musical gift to the world. This week's guests remind us not only of the well-documented ways that Cuba revolutionized that gift, but also how it blossomed in South America. Chilean tenor saxophonist Melissa Aldana and Cuban pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba stopped by after their recent Tiny Desk performance to chat about their own personal histories with jazz and its lineage in their respective countries. The memories Rubalcaba shares about Havana's jazz scene in the 1980s adds another layer to a story we've talked a lot about on Alt.Latino. And Aldana looks back on her youth learning music from her father and grandfather, both of whom were Chilean jazz pioneers. The conversation also covers the music they played at the Tiny Desk, which comes from their recent album, 'Filin,' a reexamination of a Cuban musical movement that lasted from the 1940s through the '60s. Ultimately, this week's episode is time spent with two master musicians to hear how their lives and experiences…

We get big and loud this week with a surprise drop from Phoebe Bridgers and her song “On Video,” from the Primetime soundtrack; the monstrously disjointed “Placeholder” from Gilla Band; widescreened shoegaze from the Danish artist Trentemøller and more. NPR Music’s Dora Levite joins host Robin Hilton as they share their picks for the best new songs out now. Tell us what you think with a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Featured artists and songs: (00:00) Intro (03:22) Phoebe Bridgers: “On Video” (10:26) Gilla Band: “Placeholder” (17:25) Trentemøller: “Swerve” (23:31) Wednesday: “Carolina Murder Suicide (Avey Tare Remix)” (30:29) serpentwithfeet: “sentinel” (36:37) Lily Konigsberg: “Free Byrd” Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for…

Leon Bridges. Blondshell. Joy Oladokun. Host Stephen Thompson breaks down the best albums out Friday, Sept. 18 with DJs from around the NPR Music network: Erin Wolf from Radio Milwaukee, Jewly Hight from WPLN in Nashville and Liz Warner from WDET in Detroit. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (00:53) Album No. 1 - Blondshell, 'Violins' (07:43) Album No. 2 - Julia Jacklin, 'The Gem' (15:13) Album No. 3 - Joy Oladokun, 'Hope Is A Heavy Thing' (22:33) Album No. 4 - Leon Bridges, 'Happiness Anytime' (28:52) Album No. 5 - Protomartyr, 'Hotel Usona' (34:04) The Lightning Round - Space Afrika, 'Quiet Storm' - claire rousay & Martyna Basta, 'hotel room' - Tinashe, 'Popstar' - Mary Gauthier, 'Reckoning' - Axel Boman & Superpitcher, 'Tell It To The Mountain' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist. Credits: Host: Stephen Thompson Guests: Erin Wolf, Jewly Hight, Liz Warner Audio Producer: Noah Caldwell Digital Producer: Dora…

YEИDRY's music is almost as diverse she is. Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Italy, the singer’s repertoire of genre and sound pulls from multiple continents, and even more unique cultural roots. It’s complicated to explain so many mixed identities, but, as we know quite well at Alt.Latino, music is an easy way to tell a complex story. From the first song she ever heard to a track that brings her peace, we’re presenting a playlist of YEИDRY, the artist and the person. It’s raw, unprepped, and just like YEИDRY: alive and constantly evolving. Songs discussed in this episode: - "Ese Hombre" by LA INDIA - "Guitarra" by Yoskar Sarante - "Weird Fishes / Arpeggi" by Radiohead - "Bam Bam" by Sister Nancy - "To Zion (feat. Carlos Santana)" by Ms. Lauryn Hill, Carlos Santana - "Paloma" by Angélica Garcia This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s…

Our latest mix of the week’s best new songs swings from the shoegaze rock of rising LA band untitled (halo) to Bach’s “Air on the G String” performed by pianist Víkingur Ólafsson. We’ve also got singer Lizzy McAlpine’s breathtaking ode to her late father, the laid-back grooves of polymath Sen Morimoto, the extraordinary voice of Scottish singer Beth Taylor and more. NPR Music’s Tom Huizenga joins host Robin Hilton. Tell us what you think with a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Featured artists and songs: (00:00) Intro (02:05) Sen Morimoto: “Chewing Gum” (09:27) Víkingur Ólafsson: “Air on the G String” (Johann Sebastian Bach) (16:56) Lizzy McAlpine: “The crowd” (25:51) Beth Taylor: “My Lagan Love” (33:49) untitled (halo): “easy rider” (41:58) inti figgis-vizueta: “Samara (maple seed) mvmt. III - find roots” Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This…

In September 2025, the electro-pop duo Sylvan Esso made headlines with the announcement that it was removing its catalog from Spotify. The world’s most popular music streamer wasn’t new to criticism, but the temperature changed last year with the revelation that then-CEO Daniel Ek was a major investor in Helsing, an AI software company that designs military weapons systems. A year later, the band has returned bearing new music and another small bombshell: A week after the release of 'Ow ∞,' Sylvan Esso’s fifth studio album, came the news that all of its music was returning to Spotify beginning Sept. 18. In a conversation with reporter Brian Burns from NPR member station WUNC in Chapel Hill, N.C., members Amelia Meath and Nick Sanborn (also a married couple) describe that return as the result of a series of sobering discoveries — but also stress how much they learned on the road to this moment. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus…

Beck. Carly Rae Jepsen. Beabadoobee. Host Stephen Thompson breaks down the best albums out Friday, Sept. 18 with DJs from around the NPR Music network: Robert Moore from 90.9 The Bridge in Kansas City, Amelia Mason from WBUR in Boston, and Brian Burns from WUNC in Chapel Hill. Plus, a handful of of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (01:01) Album No. 1 - Beck, 'Ride Lonesome' (07:10) Album No. 2 - beabadoobee, 'Pylon' (13:01) Album No.3 - Carly Rae Jepsen, 'Day and Night' (21:32) Album No. 4 - Tove Lo, 'ESTRUS' (28:22) Album No. 5 - Rhiannon Giddens, 'Hope is the Thing with Feathers' (34:18) The Lightning Round - Jake Xerxes Fussell, 'The Old Beloved Path' - Jóhann Jóhannsson & Adam Wiltzie, 'Friendship Survival Guide' - YENDRY, 'Como agua' - Krallice, 'Scour Order' - Son Lux, 'Out Into' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org Credits: Host: Stephen Thompson Guests: Robert Moore,…

Shortly after Los Texmaniacs did what they do best at the Tiny Desk, I pulled them into a studio to chat with them about the traditions they represent with their music. It turned into a master class on the accordion-fueled style known as conjunto, a mix of European folk music and Spanish-language storytelling. Plus, the group shared some love for one of the iconic artists who taught the world how to love conjunto, Flaco Jimenez, and how their personal connection to him also inspired them to move the music forward. - Felix Don't miss NPR Music's full coverage of Latin Music Month, with Tiny Desk Concerts featuring Mon Laferte, Los Tigres del Norte, Tim Bernardes, Los Texmaniacs and more starting September 15 at NPR.org. This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See…

We’re back with another round of the best new songs out now, including the universe-splitting “Blister Sunrise” from M83, Shygirl’s bone-rattling, euphoric track “Alyse,” subversive funk from Asher White and more. NPR Music writer and editor Sheldon Pearce joins host Robin Hilton. Tell us what you think with a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Featured artists and songs: (00:00) Intro (02:02) M83: “Blister Sunrise” (07:51) Shygirl: “Alyse” (15:13) FKJ & Labrinth: “Little Little Voice” (22:21) Renny Conti: “Leaving the Zoo” (30:57) Asher White: “My Day at the Casino” (38:36) Rachel Chinouriri: “Make Believe” Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage…

Sylvan Esso. This Is Lorelei. Ezra Collective. Host Stephen Thompson breaks down the best albums out Friday, Sept. 11 with DJs from around the NPR Music network: Brian Burns from WUNC in Chapel Hill, Celia Gregory from WNXP in Nashville, and John Morrison from WXPN in Philadelphia. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (00:35) Album No. 1 - Sylvan Esso, 'Ow 8' (06:57) Album No. 2 - Ezra Collective, 'Here Because of Hope' (13:36) Album No. 3 - This Is Lorelei, 'The Singer in My Band' (20:05) Album No. 4 - The Tubs, 'Hard Life' (27:15) Album No. 5 - Haruomi Hosono, 'Yours Sincerely' (33:00) The Lightning Round - Funkadelic, 'Maggot Brain (2026 Remastered)' - Locust, 'Spectral+' - Standing On The Corner, 'SOTC II' - Bri`ghde Chaimbeul & Colin Stetson, 'All the light in the world' - Angela Autumn, 'Believer' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org Credits: Host: Stephen…

This week Ana features two very different Brazilian artists that both draw heavily on the '60s and '70s Tropicália genre. Felix presents two very different approaches to Colombian folkloric music and a new Spanish-language singer-songwriter who turns sadness into light. Artists and albums featured in this episode: (01:52) Maglore, 'Fluxo Natural' (07:13) Indus, 'El Mangle' (12:42) Candelabro, 'Deseo, Carne y Voluntad' (17:11) Araña, 'Araña' (21:07) Lucas Bezerra, 'EU MANDEI MEU AMOR PRO ESPAÇO' (25:21) Luca de Dios, 'De Amor y Desamor This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

We share more reimagined and reinterpreted songs that rival the originals, including Janis Joplin’s iconic take on Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee,” a reggae version of The Beatles' “Don’t Let Me Down,” and more. NPR Music’s Dora Levite and Lars Gotrich rejoin host Robin Hilton for another round. Leave us a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Featured artists and songs: (00:00) Intro (04:30) Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt & Emmylou Harris: Neil Young’s “After the Gold Rush” (09:31) Frodus: Devo’s “Explosions” (12:58) Janis Joplin: Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee” (17:12) Jai Paul: Jennifer Paige’s “Crush” (22:26) Luther Vandross & Mariah Carey: Lionel Richie & Diana Ross's “Endless Love” (27:40) Nico: Jackson Browne’s “These Days” (32:34) Tricky: Public Enemy’s “Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos” (35:29) Cassandra Wilson: Neil Young’s “Harvest Moon” (40:04) Phoebe Bridgers: The…

Rebecca Black. Paris Paloma. Button Masher. Host Stephen Thompson breaks down the best albums out Friday, Sept. 4 with DJs from around the NPR Music network: Nastia Voynovskaya from KQED in San Francisco, Julie Bee from Marfa Public Radio in west Texas, and DeShun Nance from WJSU in Jackson, Miss. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (01:55) Album No. 1 - Rebecca Black, 'Age of the Exhibitionist' (08:26) Album No. 2 - Paris Paloma, 'The Fatal Flaw' (16:40) Album No. 3 - Sharp Pins, 'Mod Mayday 23' (23:06) Album No.4 - 1-800-Mikey, 'In Yun' (29:25) Album No. 5 - Button Masher, 'Super Button Masher' (36:20) The Lightning Round - Senri Oe, 'Homework' - Madi Diaz, 'Fatal Optimist UN-unplugged' - Medium Build, 'King of Having Fun' - Chat Pile, 'Who Loves The Sun' - Steven R. Smith, 'Half Light Unfolding' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org Credits: Host: Stephen…

I like to think I’m the one who keeps things fresh on the show — or at least that’s what I tell everyone. But this week Felix once again proved that false, bringing in a fresh corridos tumbados duo from Guadalajara who takes a something-old-turned-new genre and smashes it together with metal. It's something I’ve never heard before. What can I say, Felix keeps us all young. I went back to Brazil with some up-and-coming artists whose albums I’ve been excitedly awaiting. And, of course, Felix had to balance things out with one of his favorite jazz vocalists. As per usual, we’re all about whiplash here at Alt.Latino, but in a way that hopefully will make you the favorite DJ at your next fiesta. — Ana Artists and albums featured in this episode (03:52) Cultura Profética, 'En bucle' (09:53) Claudia Acuna, 'Ave de Luz: Chilean Jazz & Soul' (13:52) Mari Froes, 'Esquina do Sol' (17:36) Valeria Stewart, 'On A Wing' (21:17) Raquel Dimantas, 'Cosmo Dorme' (24:37) Ladrones, 'Arriba La L' This podcast episode was produced…

After nearly two decades of producing works by other musicians, including Kendrick Lamar and Vampire Weekend, the artist known as Dahi has just released his debut solo album. He describes it as “African Radiohead,” with kaleidoscopic soundscapes, intricate polyrhythms and a breathtaking list of collaborators. We open this week’s show with the song “How to Pray,” featuring both Kendrick Lamar and singer Amber Mark. Our other picks for the best new tracks of the week include Dominic Fike’s heady “Wallflower,” dancefloor beats from singer Jorja Smith, an 8-bit instrumental from composer Emily A. Sprague and more. NPR Music writer and editor Sheldon Pearce joins host Robin Hilton. Leave us a review on Apple or Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Featured artists and songs: (00:00) Intro (02:00) Dahi, Kenrick Lamar & Amber Mark: “How To Pray” (10:08) OHMA: “Ever Expanding” (18:46) Dominic Fike: “Wallflower” (25:20)…

Alabama Shakes. Mike D. Interpol. Host Stephen Thompson chats with Sean Carolan of WBJB in New Jersey about their favorite albums out Friday, August 28. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (03:37) Album No. 1 - Mastodon, 'Marrow Deep' (08:56) Album No. 2 - Mike D 5D, 'Thank You' (15:41) Album No. 3 - Alabama Shakes, 'I Must Be Dreaming' (21:43) Album No. 4 - Interpol, 'This Mirror Weighs a Ton' (27:47) Album No. 5 - The Linda Lindas, 'Gotta Get Out' (33:37) The Lightning Round - Billy Strings, 'So Much For Goodbyes' - Elephant Stone, 'ASHA' - Tiny Habits, 'Keepers' - Saul Williams, 'Leap Life' - Liim, 'A Sunflower Garden In Harlem Is Hard To Find' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org Credits: Host: Stephen Thompson Guest: Sean Carolan, WBJB Audio Producer: Noah Caldwell Digital Producer: Dora Levite Editors: Elle Mannion, Otis Hart Executive Producer: Suraya…

Latin identity has been at the core of Cypress Hill's music from the very beginning -- their 1991 track "Latin Lingo" gave voice to the Latin roots of hip hop with its funky Spanglish callouts. But it took the band thirty-five more years to make an album of original songs written in Spanish: 'Dios Bendiga,' which was just released. In this episode, Felix chats with the band -- B-Real, Sen Dog and Eric Bobo -- about the influences behind the album, and why this moment felt right to finally make it. Plus, a cameo from the band's longtime producer and turntablist, DJ Lord. This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR…

Dolly Parton was more than just a country music superstar. She was a songwriter for others, a philanthropist, a businesswoman, an actress and more. As a pop icon across seven decades, Parton sat down with a number of NPR hosts to tell the stories of her life and art. In this episode, NPR Music’s Ann Powers takes listeners through a number of those interviews to hear Parton tell her story, in her own words. Want more Dolly? Head to the NPR app’s music tab for a Dolly Parton playlist from our archives. Download the app at npr.org/gettheapp. And read Ann Powers’ remembrance of Dolly Parton here. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. This episode was produced by Otis Hart, Suraya Mohamed and Noah Caldwell. It was edited by Hazel Cills. Sonali Mehta is the executive director of NPR Music. Image courtesy of the Michael Ochs Archives. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about…

Is Sunday morning the best time for music? Whether you prefer solitude, get-togethers with family or friends, or steeling yourself for the week to come, we’ve got the perfect album to score your early hours. NPR Music’s Hazel Cills and Lars Gotrich join host Robin Hilton. Leave us a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Featured songs and artists: (00:00) Intro / Miles Davis: “So What” (02:32) Astrud Gilberto: “Once I Loved” (06:29) The Congos: “Fisherman” (08:48) Madredeus: “Três Ilusoses - Amargura” (13:02) Laurie Spiegel: “Patchwork” (17:03) BAD OPERATION: “Bagel Rooks” (20:10) Django Reinhardt: “Exactly Like You” (24:05) Tirzah: “Holding On” (28:13) Margo Guryan: “Sunday Morning” (33:32) Ishman Williams & the William Singers: “The Old Ship Zion” (37:42) Electrelane: “Gone Under Sea” (41:35) Woo: “Make Me Tea” (45:17) St. Germain: “So Flute” Note: A version of this episode originally ran in…

Brennan Wedl. Jorja Smith. Brandon Flowers. Host Stephen Thompson chats with Celia Gregory from WNXP in Nashville about their favorite albums out Friday, August 21. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (01:23) Album No. 1 - Brennan Wedl, 'Brennan Wedl' (08:34) Album No. 2 - Squirrel Flower, 'Say a Prayer to the Gods of Getting Going' (16:07) Album No. 3 - Westside Cowboy, 'It Goes On' (22:45) Album No. 4 - Brandon Flowers, 'THRASHER' (28:50) Album No. 5 - Jorja Smith, 'What Are The Odds' (34:27) The Lightning Round - Rapsody, 'God Gotta Afro & Gold Hoops' - OK Cowgirl, 'Rhinestone Cowgirl' - Elanor Moss, 'The Knife, The Needle' - Julia Holter, 'Materia' - The Cramps, 'Gravest Gravy' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org Credits: Host: Stephen Thompson Guest: Celia Gregory, WNXP Audio Producer: Noah Caldwell Digital Producer: Dora Levite Editors: Elle Mannion, Otis…

Mexico isn't the first place you think of as the cutting edge of experimental electronic music. But two new projects show that might be changing. LATIN MAFIA recently teamed up with British producer Fred again.. to make a bold new album featuring collaborators like Mabe Fratti and Lil Yachty. And the up-and-coming duo RØZ -- comprised of producers Manolo Cabrera and Hugo Lara -- just released their debut album, spinning a dazzling mix of hip hop, gospel and glitchy electronica. This week's episode also features a comically brilliant track from El David Aguilar, cumbia jam rockers Dos Santos, a cover from La Zorra Zapata, and a deep dive from Felix on the many interpretations of Consuela Velazquez's classic "Verdad Amarga." Artists and albums featured in this episode: (00:43) LATIN MAFIA & Fred again.., '9 months & 50 hours' (07:40) Dos Santos, 'Es Amor' (13:12) El David Aguilar, 'VIGENTE' (18:42) Miguel Zenón & Luis Perdomo, 'El Arte de Bolero, Vol. 3' (25:23) RØZ, 'SE ESTÁ HACIENDO TARDE' (29:11) La Zorra…

On this week’s show, Weezer gives the people what they want, plus a breathless “dirt dance” from saxophonist Colin Stetson and bagpiper Brìghde Chaimbeul, the scruffy cello-pop of yeemz, works by composer and vocalist Meredith Monk, electronic artist Jlin and more. NPR Music’s Tom Huizenga joins host Robin Hilton as we share our picks for the best new songs of the week. Leave us a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Featured artists and songs: (00:00) Intro (00:51) Weezer: “C.E.O.” (08:24) Colin Stetson, Brìghde Chaimbeul: “Dirt dance” (18:16) slimdan: “Let’s Start A Cult!” (25:09) Phaedra Ensemble: “Phantom Strings” (Meredith Monk) (31:43) yeemz: “Brace for Impact” (single) (37:36) PUBLIQuartet: “Baobab” (Jlin) Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See…

Phoebe Bridgers. Jungle. Hovvdy. It's a surprisingly stacked Summer Friday this week, and you can hear all about it with New Music Friday host Stephen Thompson and guest Samantha Hval from WMNF in Tampa, Fla. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (00:00) Phoebe Bridgers 'Lost Weekend' (Dead Oceans) (10:25) Jungle 'Sunshine' (AWAL) (19:38) Hovvdy 'Big World' (Arts & Crafts) (27:08) Sweeping Promises 'You Say I Romanticize' (Sub Pop) (32:59) L'Rain 'fata morgana' (Mexican Summer) (37:54) The Lightning Round • The Womack Sisters, s/t • Channel Tres 'Enigma POV' • Ayra Starr, 'Starr Girl' • Nina Winder-Lind, 'Wild Love' • Open Mike Eagle & Kenny Segal, 'DOOMED!' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org. Credits: Host: Stephen Thompson Guest: Samantha Hval, WMNF Audio Producer: Suraya Mohamed Digital Producer: Dora Levite Editors: Elle Mannion, Otis Hart Executive Producer:…

Harry Styles just finished a 5-night run in Mexico City. You know who else had a 5-night run in Mexico City? Michael Jackson in 1993. Mainstream artists have a long history of being enticed by the energy of performing for a Latin American crowd … which means there’s also a long and less-known history of big pop stars making music for that audience. Did you know Michael Jackson has a Latin track? So does Madonna. A few actually. As early as the '50s, Nat King Cole experimented with Spanish and released an entire record, Cole Español, writing songs in partnership with legendary "Bésame Mucho" composer Consuelo Velásquez. This week’s Alt.Latino is a pop takeover. We’re mythbusting the idea that there’s only been one kind of crossover — from Latin to mainstream — and walking through a long history of mainstream wanting to go… Latin. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.…

Sometimes a cover song is so good, so singular that it completely eclipses the original version. Think Sinéad O'Connor doing Prince’s “Nothing Compares 2 U,” Jimmy Hendrix lighting up Bob Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower” or, of course, Whitney Houston’s defining take on Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You.” On this week’s show, we share some of our picks for cover songs that are better than the originals, talk about why, and what, exactly, a cover song needs to become a classic. NPR Music’s Dora Levite and Lars Gotrich join host Robin Hilton. Leave us a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org (00:00) Intro and the top five G.O.A.T.s (06:06) Al Green: “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” (09:58) Björk: “It’s Oh So Quiet” (12:28) Aretha Franklin: “Respect” (16:22) Low: “Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me” (19:45) Andrew Paul Woodworth: “Fight For Your Right to Party” (25:10) Yaeji: “Passionfruit”…

At the outset of The Ripple Effect, NPR Music’s series on the Grateful Dead, we asked fans to share stories about how they fell in love with the band. The response was overwhelming: wry, emotional and personal. It was overflowing with shared experiences that underline exactly how crucial the community that surrounds the Dead is to the band’s legacy. Now that we’ve reached the end of Days Between, we’re closing The Ripple Effect by listening to voice memos from you: Deadheads and people who love Deadheads, lifelong fans and late converts. We’ll hear about first shows, encounters with the musicians and multiple cross-country road trips. Check out all of our coverage from The Ripple Effect: The Grateful Dead's long, strange trip might keep going forever Hosts: Felix Contreras, Isabella Gomez Sarmiento Audio Producer: Noah Caldwell Editors: Jacob Ganz, Hazel Cills Visuals: Jackie Lay Executive Producer: Suraya Mohamed Executive Director: Sonali Mehta Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25…

Ravyn Lenae. Margaret Glaspy. Overmono. Host Stephen Thompson chats with Liz Warner from WDET in Detroit about their favorite albums out Friday, August 7. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (00:54) Album No. 1 - Ravyn Lenae, 'Blue Island' (08:03) Album No. 2 - Overmono, 'Pure Devotion' (15:26) Album No. 3 - Margaret Glaspy, 'I Am Both' (21:42) Album No. 4 - Man/Woman/Chainsaw, 'Cannonball' (27:36) Album No. 5 - Arun Sood & Angeline Morrison, 'Donn/Dubh' (32:43) The Lightning Round - The Mountain Goats, 'Days' - Ceremony, 'Tell Me You're Dream' - Cletus Strap, 'rappers suck.' - Various Artists, 'Sittin' With Blaze: A Tribute To Blaze Foley' - Roy Montgomery & Martha Skye Murphy, 'Nebular' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org Credits Host: Stephen Thompson Guest: Liz Warner, WDET Audio Producer: Noah Caldwell Digital Producer: Dora Levite Editors: Otis Hart, Elle…

To celebrate Ana's world premiere as a DJ -- a gig playing for 5,000 people in Central Park, which she definitely, absolutely prepared for -- this week we present her summer playlist. We've got song of the summer contenders (Aitana's "SUPERESTRELLA"), sleeper hits we missed when they dropped (Quevedo's "EL BAIFO"), and bubbly classics-in-the-making we keep coming back to (Rawayana's "Se Vienen Cositas"). Plus, Felix balances the bangers with chill-out room Uruguayan jazz, a psychedelic guitar jam and a trio of sisters from Austin. Artists and songs featured in this episode: (02:23) Quevedo, "EL BAIFO" (05:07) Camilo y los Cruzers, "Descarga Rockeada" (09:23) Aitana, "SUPERESTRELLA" (16:44) Alejandra Gala, "I Dare You" (22:14) Rawayana, "Se Vienen Cositas" (25:51) The Tiarras, "Vida Libre", "Black Sheep (unplugged)" This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This…

We open this week’s show by reflecting on the loss of Glen Hansard, an artist who was critical to shaping the sound and spirit of All Songs Considered in its earliest days. We then share some of our favorite new tracks of the week, including a King Princess cover of Neil Young’s “Helpless,” cheeky pop from Coco & Clair Clair, a stunning ambient track from Adam Wiltzie and the late composer Jóhann Jóhannsson, and more. NPR Music’s Dora Levite joins host Robin Hilton. Support the show with a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Featured artists and songs: (00:00) Intro and remembering Glen Hansard (03:24) Coco & Clair Clair: “Coldplay” (08:34) Claudia Isaki: “Origami” (15:30) Slayyyter: “brand new chanel$” (23:17) King Princess: “Helpless” (31:01) Dawuna: “I am a Woman too...” (36:50) Adam Wiltzie & Jóhann Jóhannsson: “White Gloves & Turtlenecks” Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for…

Death never stopped the Grateful Dead before. Since Jerry Garcia's death in 1995, a sprawling collection of musicians and fans across generations have kept the band’s legacy alive in different ways. But without members Phil Lesh and Bob Weir, Deadheads are experiencing their first summer where there’s no clear inheritor of the Grateful Dead’s mantle. Where does the music, and the dedicated community that has grown up around it, go from here? NPR Music's resident Deadheads Felix Contreras and Isabella Gomez Sarmiento took a cue from the Dead itself: They hit the road, interviewing musicians, fans and archivists to learn how the band and its fans built a legacy that has spanned generations, and to find out what's next. For more podcast episodes and stories about the future of the Grateful Dead, check out our series Dead After Death. This episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. It was edited by Jacob Ganz and Hazel Cills. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed. Our executive director is Sonali…

The Durutti Column. Arca. MOLIY. Host Stephen Thompson chats with Olive Kimoto of member station KCRW in Los Angeles about their favorite albums out Friday, July 31. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (01:34) Album No. 1 - The Durutti Column, 'Renascent' (08:49) Album No. 2 - Arca, 'XXXXX' (17:20) Album No. 3 - DOMi & JD Beck, 'WHO ASKED?' (22:17) Album No. 4 - Shearwater, 'The New World' (29:13) Album No. 5 - MOLIY, 'BADDIES <3 MOLIY' (34:52) The Lightning Round - Shaboozey, 'The Outlaw Cherie Lee & Other Western Tales' - Perfect Person, 'Some Kind of Life' EP - Wyatt Flores, 'Scared of Heights' - Family Stereo, 'The Thread' - Ed Askew, 'The Final Painting' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org. Credits Host: Stephen Thompson Guest: Olive Kimoto, KCRW Audio Producer: Noah Caldwell Digital Producer: Dora Levite Editors: Otis Hart, Elle Mannion Special thanks to…

Bill Evans might not be techno. But in this week's episode, the slow-building angst and tension of electronic producer Debit's new music reminded Ana of the beloved jazz piano master. And that kind of genre cross-pollination is everywhere in this week's showcase of new music: Brazilian field recordings remixed for the club, multiple reinterpretations of the Cuban guaguancó, and Spanish producers channeling -- as Ana puts it -- "experimental Boricua stuff." Featured artists and albums: (00:45) Various Artists, 'Candomblé: Sacred Rhythms in Brazil' (04:24) Ítallo, 'CATATAU' (11:25) Debit, 'Potpourri' (16:41) Calequi y Las Panteras, 'TRES' (21:07) Carolina Oliveros, 'Oye Camina' (24:35) BLAYA, 'Your lesbian neighbour is playing music next door' This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy…

Once in a while you get shown the light in the strangest places, if you look at it right. And if you get confused, just listen to the music play. This week, resident Deadheads Isabella Gomez Sarmiento and Felix Contreras help host Robin Hilton hear what he’s been missing in the music of the Grateful Dead. Are you a Deadhead? Share your memories about the Grateful Dead and we may include them in a big series about the band we're launching Aug. 1. Support the show with a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Featured songs: (00:00) Intro and “King Solomon’s Marbles” (08:54) “China Cat Sunflower / I Know You Rider” Alpine Valley, WI 7.17.89 (11:03) “Help On the Way / Slipknot / Franklin’s Tower” (16:39) “Ripple” (23:34) “Morning Dew (Europe ‘72)” (26:17) “I Shall Be Released (Live)” (30:05) “Black Muddy River” (31:34) “One More Saturday Night” (32:09) “Sunrise” (33:21) “Shady Grove” (39:14) “Birdsong”…

Charli xcx. Tyla. Shania Twain. Guest host Ann Powers chats with Nastia Voynovskaya of member station KQED in San Francisco about their favorite albums out Friday, July 24. Plus, some NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (02:06) Album No. 1 - Charli xcx, 'Music, Fashion, Film' (08:16) Album No. 2 - Willow, 'The Thread' (14:59) Album No. 3 - Tyla, 'A*Pop' (20:39) Album No. 4 - Shania Twain, 'Little Miss Twain' (27:50) Album No. 5 - Portraits Of Tracy: 'Q: From Where Do Our Primal Instincts Originate? A: MTV!' (33:23) The Lightning Round - Creekbed Carter Hogan, 'PEASANTS REVOLT!' - Rico Nasty, 'RX' - Amy Shark, 'soft pop' - Josaleigh Pollett, 'If I Let It Quiet' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org. Credits Host: Ann Powers Guest: Nastia Voynovskaya, KQED Audio Producer: Noah Caldwell Digital Producer: Dora Levite Editors: Otis Hart, Elle Mannion, Suraya Mohamed Special thanks to…

We'll take any excuse to talk about the insane quality of music coming out of Spain these days. This week, we got one: Spain defeated Argentina on Sunday to win the 2026 World Cup Final. So, this episode is a celebration of the multitude of music scenes across Spain that we can't get enough of. Catch boundary-pushing electronic and hip hop producers in Madrid, indie rockers and songwriters in Barcelona, and some old favorites whose voices never stop (looking at you, Buika!). Artists featured in this episode: (01:22) C. Tangana (04:19) Ralphie Choo (06:28) Mora (10:10) Bikôkô (13:52) Buika (16:04) Repion (20:42) Lucia Fumero (23:12) Maestro Espada This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

We share our picks for the best new tracks out now, including the laid-back dystopia of Sylvan Esso’s “Concrete Glen,” an acoustic take on Phoebe Bridgers’ “Lost Boys,” the glitched-out chaos of feeble little horse and more. NPR Music’s Dora Levite joins host Robin Hilton. Support the show with a review on Apple or Spotify wherever you listen to podcasts. Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org Featured artists and songs: (00:00) Intro (01:28) Sylvan Esso: “Concrete Glen” (07:49) feeble little horse: “DMT” (14:07) Phoebe Bridgers: “Lost Boys (acoustic)” (22:15) Snõõper: “RECESS” (26:50) The Olivia Tremor Control: “Garden of Light” (33:53) @: “Autosmile” See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Gracie Abrams. Nia Archives. Steve Lacy. On a release day full of catchy earworms, host Stephen Thompson chats with Tshego Letsoalo of KALW in San Francisco about their favorite albums out Friday, July 17. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round. The Starting 5 (00:58) Album No. 1 - Gracie Abrams, 'Daughter from Hell' (08:13) Album No. 2 - Steve Lacy, 'Oh Yeah?' (16:38) Album No. 3 - Nia Archives, 'Emotional Junglist' (22:27) Album No. 4 - Lido Pimienta, 'Caribenya' (28:04) Album No. 5 - Swapmeet, 'Mount Zero' (33:13) The Lightning Round - Catherine Moan, 'CM Ultra' - Helado Tropical, 'Helado Tropical' - Orquesta Akokán, 'América!' - Nao Yoshioka, 'Self' - Quicksand, 'Bring On The Psychics' Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org Credits: Host: Stephen Thompson Guest: Tshego Letsoalo, KALW Audio Producer: Noah Caldwell Digital Producer: Dora Levite Editors: Elle Mannion, Otis Hart…

With last week's best-of show behind us, we've got a clean slate to dive into our favorite new music kicking off the second half of the year. Felix brings a batch of country tracks, while Ana -- to absolutely no one's surprise -- continues her exploration of Brazil's endless supply of captivating music. Catch a mesmerizing indie-ambient album from João Carvalho, some posthumous crooning from Raul Malo, the twangy return of Oklahoma's rising star Wyatt Flores, and much more. Artists and albums featured in this episode: (01:13) Cruz Contreras & The Black Lillies, 'Gold and Roses (Live)' (06:15) João Carvalho, 'Uma Festa no Centro do Vazio' (13:02) Raul Malo, 'Bella Ciao: Raul Malo Live In Nashville' (17:14) Rincon Sapiência, 'Um Corpo Preto' (24:13) Wyatt Flores, 'Scared of Heights' (27:50) Cupido, 'Maldito Cupido' This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for…