NPR Music

Thundercat. Arlo Parks. Devotional belters from Dermot Kennedy. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson chats with Erin Wolf from Radio Milwaukee about their favorite albums out Friday, April 3. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in our lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction & Bon Iver, 'VOLUMES: ONE"(01:57) Arlo Parks, 'Ambiguous Desire'(07:29) Dermot Kennedy, 'The Weight of the Woods'(14:15) Thundercat, 'Distracted'(19:53) Joe Pernice, 'Sunny, I Was Wrong'(26:44) Earl Sweatshirt, MIKE & Surf Gang, 'POMPEII // UTILITY'(31:30) The Lightning Round- Maria Taylor, 'Story's End'- Wendy Eisenberg, 'Wendy Eisenberg'- Sunn O))), 'Sunn O)))'- Roomful of Teeth & Gabriel Kahane, 'Elevator Songs'- Sofia Rei, 'Antónima'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.orgCredits: Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Erin Wolf, Radio MilwaukeeAudio Producers: Noah Caldwell, Alina EdwardsDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Felix Contreras, Lars Gotrich and Tom HuizengaTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Two phrases spoken during this week’s episode stand out because they represent how Ana and I approach our searches for new music. The first: “The only limit is the imagination.” In my constant hunt for the sound I have never heard, this thought is my mantra. The new music we’re bringing this week really steps up to that challenge, from young upstarts like Broke Carrey to beloved veterans like Draco Rosa.The second phrase? “Latin music is a geography not a genre.” Ana put into words something she and I talk about often, the idea that the term “Latin music” is no longer adequate to reflect that amazingly eclectic forms of musical expression in the Spanish-speaking world. This episode features musicians from Argentina, Peru, the Dominican Republic and elsewhere -- but what they share is a distinct artistic expression that consistently blows our minds.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

More than 6,000 artists entered this year’s Tiny Desk Contest, hoping to win their very own performance behind the actual Desk. We’ll announce the winner soon, but in the meantime, we’re sharing some of our favorite entries, from the riff-rock group Pump Action, to soul singer Les Greene, loop artist Jackie Marchal, singer-songwriter Yuri Shin and more.Tiny Desk series producer Bobby Carter joins All Songs Considered host Robin Hilton. (They’re also the two lead judges for the Contest.)Featured entries:(00:00) Intro(00:51) Pump Action: “Supernova”(03:34) Lily Talmers: “The Big Idea”(07:18) Walker Burroughs: “Open Skies”(10:53) Les Greene & the Swayzees: "Long Story Short"(14:08) Nicolosi: “Are You Coming To The Ivy?”(17:20) Jackie Marchal: “Excavate The Girl”(21:43) the King will come: “welcome”(24:33) Yuri Shin: “Falling Rabbit”(27:54) Lauren Frihauf: “One Thing Always Leads To Another”(31:41) Meira: “Make Me Go”Support the show with a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. And tell a friend!Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: [email protected] manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Robyn. RAYE. A jazzy left turn from Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson chats with Alisa Ali from WFUV in the Bronx about their favorite albums out Friday, March 27. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in our lightning round. The Starting 5(01:42) Robyn, 'Sexistential'(07:15) RAYE, 'This Music May Contain Hope'(14:21) Courtney Barnett, 'Creature of Habit'(20:20) The New Pornographers, 'The Former Site Of'(25:32) Flea, 'Honora'(32:08) The Lightning Round- Connie Converse, 'How Sad, How Lovely' (Reissue)- Snail Mail, 'Ricochet'- The Philharmonik, 'Transcendentalism I' EP- Irreversible Entanglements, 'Future Present Past'- Sluice, 'Companion'- Charlotte Cornfield, 'Hurts Like Hell'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Alisa Ali, WFUVAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Bobby Carter, Sheldon Pearce and Ann PowersTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

From the very beginning of Alt.Latino, female vocalists have captivated us the most -- and New York-based Argentine vocalist Sofia Rei has been high on our list of favorites for a while. She uses the human voice like paint on a canvas, layering voices to create choirs that take flight at the mere suggestion of a melody. On her new album Antónima, she not only creates magic with her own voice but also collaborates with some Alt.Latino favorites: Gaby Moreno, Daymé Arocena and Xenia Rubinos, among others. As we revive our Guest DJ series, we asked her to bring on some of the songs she loves, for an insider's perspective of the art behind the human voice. To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Our latest mix of the best new songs out now includes a stunning live version of Bon Iver’s “Heavenly Father,” a track the band originally wrote for the 2014 film Wish I Was Here, but never made available to stream before now. We’ve also got a stirring new ballad from Tori Amos, Luxembourg indie rocker Francis of Delirium (who assures us this is, in fact, a beautiful life), the long-awaited (if complicated) return of influential metal band Neurosis and more.NPR Music’s Lars Gotrich joins host Robin Hilton.(00:00) Intro(01:41) Bon Iver: “Heavenly Father” from VOLUMES: ONE (SELECTIONS FROM MUSIC CONCERTS 2019-2023)(08:25) Souled American: “Freeing Wheels” from Sanctions(13:58) Francis of Delirium: “It’s a Beautiful Life” from Run, Run Pure Beauty(20:28) Tara Clerkin Trio: “Somewhere Good” from Somewhere Good(28:58) Tori Amos: “Stronger Together” from In Times of Dragons(35:36) Neurosis: “Untethered” from An Undying Love for a Burning WorldSupport the show with a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. And tell a friend!Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: [email protected] manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

In this special episode, the beloved singer-songwriter performs four songs live and speaks with Raina Douris of NPR's World Cafe about her acclaimed new album, 'Nothing's About To Happen To Me.'Follow the World Cafe podcast for more live performances and interviews every week.Featured performers:• Mitski: vocals• Patrick Hyland: electric, acoustic guitars• Bruno Esrubilsky: drums• Jeni Magaña: bass, backing vocals• Emily Moore: guitarist, keys, backing vocals• Ty Bailie: keys Thanks to the production team at Power Station: Neal Shaw, Omisha Chaitanya, Grace Leckey and Ben Miller.This episode of World Cafe was produced and edited by Kimberly Junod. Our digital producer is Miguel Perez. World Cafe's engineer is Chris Williams. Our programming and booking coordinator is Chelsea Johnson and our line producer is Will Loftus.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

BTS. Alex Isley. Dubstep-infused hyperpop from underscores. NPR Music's Hazel Cills chats with Francesca Harding of member station KCRW in Los Angeles about their favorite albums out Friday, March 20. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in our lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction & BTS, 'ARIRANG'(02:28) Alex Isley, 'When The City Sleeps'(07:52) underscores, 'U'(15:38) ZENA, 'TEMESGEN'(20:39) Grace Ives, 'Girlfriend'(26:16) Suitor, 'Saw You Out With The Weeds'(32:23) The Lightning Round- Ali & Charif Megarbane, 'Tirakat'- Naomi Scott, 'F.I.G.'- Samara Cyn, 'Detour' EP- Immanuel Wilkins Quartet, 'Live at the Village Vanguard, Vol.1'- Luke Combs, 'The Way I Am'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.orgCredits:Host: Hazel CillsGuest: Francesca Harding, KCRWAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Rodney Carmichael, Ann Powers and Stephen ThompsonTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

This week's new music pairs well with a glass of wine - or, at least, that's what Ana chose while taping this happy hour edition of Alt.Latino at Felix's dining room table. And the music on tap spans a huge breadth of styles. Yahritza y Su Esencia returns with a powerful sophomore album after a spell out of the limelight. Brazilian legend-in-the-making Lucas Santtana collaborates with his mentor Gilberto Gil. Ana Tijoux revisits her late-'90s hip-hop roots. Plus, Tejano master Ruben Ramos tells his life story through song. This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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 check back in with our running list of the best songs of the week, including Olivia Rodrigo’s cover of The Magnetic Fields classic “The Book of Love,” Noah Kahan’s anthemic new single “Porch Light,” one of Aldous Harding’s boldest songs to date and more. NPR Music’s Dora Levite joins host Robin Hilton.(00:00) Intro(01:29) Noah Kahan: “Porch Light” from ‘The Great Divide’(09:09) Olivia Rodrigo: “The Book of Love” from ‘Help (2)’(16:48) Ages and Ages: “Feel Amazing” from ‘Fine Thanks and You’(24:30) Aldous Harding: “One Stop” from ‘Train on the Island’(31:23) Ryan Lott: “Discontent” from ‘Marathon’ (38:20) underscores: “Tell Me (U Want It)” from ‘U’Support the show with a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. And tell a friend!Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: [email protected] manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Earlier this week, country superstar Kacey Musgraves announced her sixth album, Middle of Nowhere, which will be released on May 1. Since her Grammy-winning 2018 album Golden Hour, Musgraves has explored a space beyond country music, but the new album reflects a renewed interest in traditional country and western sounds, influenced by the time she's been spending on either side of the Texas-Mexico border. For her first interview about the project, she sat down with reporter Jewly Hight to discuss the album's first single, "Dry Spell," how she's learned to love solitude and what made her frosty relationship with with fellow Texan Miranda Lambert thaw enough to collaborate.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

James Blake. Kim Gordon. Sturgill Simpson's country-funk alter ego. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson chats with Amelia Mason from WBUR in Boston about their favorite albums out Friday, March 13. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in our lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction & Oscars predictions(02:15) Johnny Blue Skies & The Dark Clouds, 'Mutiny After Midnight'(08:50) James Blake, 'Trying Times'(17:04) Anjimile, 'You're Free To Go'(22:53) Kim Gordon, 'Play Me'(27:52) Blessing Jolie, '20nothing'(35:15) The Lightning Round- Morgan Nagler, 'I've Got Nothing To Lose, and I'm Losing It'- Tinariwen, 'Hoggar'- Jorge Drexler, 'Taracá'- The Tallis Scholars, 'Nico Muhly: No Resting Place'- Fugazi, 'Albini Sessions'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits: Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Amelia Mason, WBURAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Felix Contreras, Tom Huizenga and Lars GotrichTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

International Women's Day is more than a perfunctory holiday in many parts of Latin America. In Mexico City, for example, more than 120,000 people turned out on Sunday to protest femicide and celebrate the ongoing fight for basic rights for women in the country. In honor of the holiday, this week's episode debuts our female power anthems hall of fame, highlighting women in Latin music whose art challenged the status quo of their time. Plus, some on-the-ground reporting from Anamaria Sayre at the march in Mexico City.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Will this finally be Diane Warren’s year at the Oscars, when she goes up against “Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters and “I Lied to You” from Sinners? (Probably not.)Host Robin Hilton is joined by New Music Friday’s Stephen Thompson to cruelly rank those nominees along with “Train Dreams” from Train Dreams and “Sweet Dreams of Joy” from Viva Verdi!.(00:00) Intro(02:37) Fifth place(08:45) Fourth place(16:55) Third place(24:25) Second place(33:31) First place and our pick to win the OscarSupport the show with a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. And tell a friend!Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: [email protected] manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Flying Lotus. waterbaby. The groovy affirmations of Joshua Idehen. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson chats with Nate Chinen from WRTI in Philadelphia about their favorite albums out Friday, March 6. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in our lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction & Harry Styles, 'Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally.'(03:18) Flying Lotus, 'BIG MAMA' EP(08:34) waterbaby, 'Memory Be a Blade'(15:20) Shabaka, 'Of The Earth'(20:51) Joshua Idehen, 'I know you're hurting, everyone is hurting, everyone is trying, you have got to try'(27:09) The Scythe, 'Strictly 4 The Scythe'(31:37) The Lightning Round- Cece Coakley, 'Pleasant Attack' EP- Terrace Martin, 'Purpose'- Various Artists, 'HELP(2)' - Alice Sara Ott, 'Jóhann Jóhannsson: Piano Works'- Macha & Bedhead, 'Macha Loved Bedhead'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Nate Chinen, WRTIAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Ann Powers, Tom Huizenga and Lars GotrichTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

On Feb. 21, the musical world lost a legend and pioneer of salsa: Willie Colón.The trombonist, songwriter, producer and arranger was a key part of the transition of Afro-Caribbean dance music from regional traditions to worldwide popularity. For an insider’s perspective on that history, this week we speak to trombonist and bandleader Angel “Papo” Vázquez, a Philadelphia-born musician who was not only inspired to play the trombone by Willie Colón, but also played on some historic recordings by Colón and other Fania Records notables.The best music tells great stories, and the same can be said about musicians. Vázquez brings along five tracks by Willie Colón that set him, and the rest of the world, on a path of deep appreciation for Colón’s contributions to salsa.This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya MohamedTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Our third installment of calming songs includes Max Richter’s tribute to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ambient sounds from Ryuichi Sakamoto, Brazilian jazz from Wayne Shorter and more.Note: This episode originally ran in April, 2025Artists and songs featured on this episode:(00:00) Intro(02:20) The Choir: “You Don’t Have To Smile,” from ‘Translucent’(05:58) Orbital Patterns: “Can’t Tell If I’m Awake,” from ‘Extended Impostor Syndrome’(10:11) Ryuichi Sakamoto & Alvo Noto: “Logic Moon,” From ‘Insen’(15:46) Lea Bertucci: “Vapours,” From ‘Of Shadow And Substance’(20:25) Hayden Pedigo: “Long Pond Lily,” From ‘I’ll Be Waving As You Drive Away’(25:57) Max Richter: “All Human Beings,” from ‘Voices’(31:17) Wayne Shorter: “Tarde,” From ‘Native Dancer’(36:15) Mabe Fratti: “El Sol Sigue Ahí,” From ‘Pies Sobre La Tierra’(41:08) Ida: “Don’t Get Sad,” from ‘Will You Find Me?’(46:10) David Zinman, Dawn Upshaw & London Sinfonietta: “Lento,” from Henryk Górecki’s ‘Symphony No. 3, Op. 36 - Symphony Of Sorrowful Songs’Support the show with a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. And tell a friend!Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: [email protected] manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Bruno Mars. Mitski. Grief and celebration from Gorillaz. Robin Hilton welcomes Raina Douris from WXPN in Philadelphia to chat about their favorite albums out Friday, Feb. 27. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in the lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction & Bruno Mars, 'The Romantic'(03:54) Mitski, 'Nothing's About to Happen to Me'(09:44) Gorillaz, 'The Mountain'(15:04) Heavenly, 'Highway To Heavenly'(20:34) Voxtrot, 'Dreamers in Exile'(27:12) Nothing, 'a short history of decay'(32:52) The Lightning Round- Buck Meek, 'The Mirror'- Maria BC, 'Marathon'- Bill Callahan, 'My Days of 58'- GENA, The Pleasure is Yours'- Sarah Kirkland Snider, 'Forward Into Light'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Robin HiltonGuest: Raina Douris, WXPNAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Hazel Cills, Ann Powers, Sheldon Pearce and Tom HuizengaTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

This week on Alt.Latino, it's another new music episode with a global panorama: Canary Islands merengue, Chicano soul, Afro-Brazilian roots and more. Plus, a percussion supergroup that Felix could listen to for hours.Featured artists and albums:(00:00) Introduction(01:05) Quevedo, 'NI BORRACHO'(05:12) Joey Quiñones, 'In a Soul Situation'(12:34) Carolina Mama, 'Amina'(15:41) Elipsis, 'Elipsis'(19:32) Da Cruz, 'Som Sistema'(23:56) Sofía Rei, 'Antónima'This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

This week on All Songs Considered: U2 surprise-dropped a new EP that opens with a scorching critique of the government crackdown on immigration; Lana Del Rey inched closer toward releasing her long-awaited album with a haunting and strange ode to love and obsession, while singer Arlo Parks takes a bold step out onto the dance floor. All that and more as host Robin Hilton and NPR Music’s Sheldon Pearce share their picks for the best new songs of the week.Featured artists and songs:(00:00) Intro(01:50) U2: “American Obituary,” from ‘Days Of Ash’(10:24) Arlo Parks: “Heaven,” from ‘Ambiguous Desire’(17:37) Lana Del Rey: “White Feather Hawk Tail Deer Hunter” (Single)(25:22) Baby Rose & Leon Thomas: “Friends Again” (Single)(31:58) James Blake: “I Had a Dream She Took My Hand,” from ‘Trying Times’(39:08) Bella Kay: “Steady,” from ‘a couple minutes out’And here's a link to Sheldon's piece on Jill Scott and Brent Faiyaz that was discussed during the show's intro: https://www.npr.org/2026/02/19/nx-s1-5713600/jill-scott-brent-faiyaz-rnb-reviewSupport the show with a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. And tell a friend!Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: [email protected] manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Host Robin Hilton shares an update about some cosmetic changes coming to the 'All Songs Considered' podcast feed.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

WILLOW. Altin Gün. Fugazi alumni smashing punk into jazz. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson is joined by Evan Miller from WYSO in Yellow Springs, Ohio to chat about their favorite albums out Friday, Feb. 20.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction & WILLOW, 'petal rock black'(03:29) Pekka Kuusisto, 'Willows'(08:59) Manu Delago & Max ZT, 'Deuce'(16:21) The Messthetics & James Brandon Lewis, 'Deface The Currency'(21:29) Hen Ogledd, 'DISCOMBOBULATED'(27:19) Altin Gün, 'Garip'(32:41) The Lightning Round- Megan Moroney, 'Cloud 9'- Chris Forsyth's WHAT IS NOW, 'Both / And'- Choker, 'Heaven Ain't Sold'- MX LONELY, 'ALL MONSTERS'- Mumford & Sons, 'Prizefighter'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist on NPR.org/allsongsCredits: Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Evan Miller, WYSOAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

So, I was away for a bit and the new music just piled up during the holidays, and while we were watching Bad Bunny make headlines at the Grammys and the Super Bowl. Our first new music episode of the new year has quite a variety of styles from lots of different countries. We could say that about just about every new music show we produce. But what are we to do when the amount of creativity that comes our way pretty much overwhelms us? Jump in for a summertime journey through the many sounds of Brazil, a fusion of indigenous and contemporary styles, and a lost relic of Mexican rock from the 1970s. - Felix Artists and albums:(00:00) Introduction(01:20) Amaro Freitas, Criolo, and Dino D'Santiago, 'CRIOLO, AMARO E DINO'(09:19) Javier Jara, 'Our Rhythms, Our Voices'(13:19) Infinito Latente, 'Sem Início Nem Fim'(19:19) Ernan Roch Con Las Voces Frescas, 'La Onda Pesada'(24:52) João Menezes & Paulo Novaes, 'Coisa Híbrida'(30:02) Líber Terán, 'Canciones Del Desierto'This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

If you watch HBO’s The Pitt, you might have heard the gorgeous new song called “Need Someone” that Andrew Bird wrote for a recent episode. We’ve got that on this week’s show along with reflections on fitting in by letting go, from Gia Margaret and Ratboys; shoegaze from Draag, the twitchy glitchy sounds of Mandy, Indiana and more.NPR Music’s Dora Levite joins host Robin Hilton to share the best new songs they’re obsessing over this week.Featured songs and artists:(00:00) Intro(02:18) Draag: “Finding Fear,” from ‘Miracle Drug’(09:35) Mandy, Indiana: “Try Saying,” from ‘Urgh’(14:59) Andrew Bird: “Need Someone” (single as featured in ‘The Pitt’)(20:38) Ratboys: “Open Up,” from ‘Singin’ To An Empty Chair’(28:49) Gia Margaret: “Everyone Around Me Dancing,” from ‘Singing’(35:30) By Storm: “Can I Have You For Myself,” from ‘My Ghost Go Ghost’Support the show with a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. And tell a friend!Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: [email protected] manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

August Ponthier. Brent Faiyaz. Jill Scott's first album in more than a decade. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson is joined by Nastia Voynovskaya from KQED in San Francisco to chat about their favorite albums out Friday, Feb. 13.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction & Charli xcx, 'Wuthering Heights'(03:06) August Ponthier, 'Everywhere Isn't Texas'(09:38) Brent Faiyaz, 'Icon'(15:29) Jill Scott, 'To Whom This May Concern'(21:09) STAYC, 'Stay Alive'(25:57) The Paranoid Style, 'Known Associates'(32:01) The Lightning Round:- The Olympians, 'In Search of a Revival'- Hemlocke Springs, 'the apple tree under the sea'- Neba Solo & Benego Diakité, 'A Djinn and a Hunter Went Walking (The Complete Sessions)'- Aaron Shaw, 'And So It Is'- Ásgeir, 'Julia'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist on NPR.org/allsongsCredits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Nastia Voynovskaya, KQEDAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show was many things: a time-traveling journey through the history of Puerto Rico, a statement of pan-American unity, and a masterpiece of cultural expression. This week, co-hosts Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre are joined by Isabella Gomez Sarmiento — who brings on-the-ground reporting from San Juan — to unpack the symbolism embedded in Bad Bunny's performance.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

With the arrival of the Geese Tiny Desk, we thought we’d try to break down what it is about this band that has made them one of the most talked about and polarizing acts of the past six months.Host Robin Hilton is joined by NPR Music's Ann Powers and host of The Ringer's Bandsplain podcast Yasi Salek to make sense of all the fuss. (Full disclosure: We all love Geese.)Support the show with a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. And tell a friend!Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: [email protected] manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Ratboys. Beverly Glenn-Copeland. Caribou's club alter-ego. Stephen Thompson from NPR Music chats with Erin Wolf from Radio Milwaukee about their favorite new albums out Friday, Feb. 6.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction & J. Cole, 'The Fall Off'(02:11) Ratboys, 'Singin' To An Empty Chair'(08:27) Beverly Glenn-Copeland, 'Laughter In Summer'(16:27) Daphni, 'Butterfly'(21:22) Charlotte Day Wilson, 'Patchwork'(26:39) John Craigie, 'I Swam Here'(31:26) The Lightning Round- Melissa Carper & Theo Lawrence, 'Havin' a Talk'- Alice Costelloe, 'Move On With The Year'- vegas water taxi, 'long time caller, first time listener'- Ulrika Spacek, 'EXPO'- Music City, 'Welcome to Music City'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist on NPR.org/allsongs.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Erin Wolf, Radio MilwaukeeAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Last Sunday, Bad Bunny's DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS became the first exclusively Spanish language album to win album of the year at the Grammys. This coming Sunday, the Puerto Rican megastar will perform at the Super Bowl halftime show. For this week's episode, Anamaria Sayre and Isabella Gomez Sarmiento chat about what these two moments mean for Bad Bunny, the island of Puerto Rico, and the role of Latin music in America more broadly.This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the executive producer of NPR Music.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

The Beck rarity “Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime” has officially hit streaming services and we can’t get enough of it. We’ve also got new (not-yet-announced) projects from Friko and Asher White, a witchy new cut from the duo Sibyl, the Polish composer and guitarist Szymon Wójcik and more.NPR Music’s Lars Gotrich joins host Robin Hilton.Featured songs and artists:(00:00) Intro and The Grammys(03:31) Beck: “Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime,” from ‘Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime’(12:29) Rat Penat: “Kijiji,” from ‘Over Easy’(18:26) Friko: “Seven Degrees,” from ‘Something Worth Waiting For’(25:27) Sibyl: “Witch Wife,” from ‘Sibyl’(30:42) Asher White: “Casper,” from ‘Jessica Pratt’(38:22) Szymon Wójcik: “it’s only begun,” from ‘when you rub your eyes, you see things you can’t describe’Support the show with a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. And tell a friend!Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: [email protected] manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Enjoy Pop Culture Happy Hour's late-night recap of the 2026 Grammy Awards, featuring NPR Music's Stephen Thompson and Hazel Cills, as well as pop culture journalist (and former NPR intern) Reanna Cruz.(00:00) Intro(00:46) Album of the year: Bad Bunny(05:24) Record of the year: Kendrick Lamar(08:51) Best new artist medley(13:52) Lady Gaga's three Grammys(18:44) Song of the year: Billie Eilish(21:05) Milestone moments and In MemoriamCreditsHost: Stephen ThompsonGuests: Hazel Cills, Reanna CruzProducers: Carly Rubin, Mike KatzifEditor: Jessica ReedyExecutive Producer, NPR Music: Suraya MohamedExecutive Director, NPR Music: Sonali MehtaTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

Lord Jah-Monte Ogbon. Emily Scott Robinson. Blood harmonies from Irish brothers Ye Vagabonds. Stephen Thompson from NPR Music chats with Dre Castillo from KVNF in western Colorado about the best albums out Friday, Jan. 30.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction(01:21) Emily Scott Robinson, 'Appalachia'(08:58) Ye Vagabonds, 'All Tied Together'(16:05) Jordan Ward, 'Backward'(21:48) Lord Jah-Monte Ogbon, 'As Of Now'(27:18) Orestes Gomez, 'No me fui porque quise'The Lightning Round- Don Toliver, 'OCTANE'- Lande Hekt, 'Lucky Now'- By Storm, 'My Ghosts Go Ghost’- Yumi Zouma, 'No Love Lost to Kindness'- David Moore, 'Graze the Bell'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist on NPR.org/allsongs.CreditsHost: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Dre Castillo, KVNFAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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

This month Alt.Latino's been looking at the music of Venezuela from a lot of different angles. For this episode, we’ve invited trumpet player and producer Ella Bric to be our guest DJ. She shared what she thinks are the most socially, culturally and politically impactful pieces of music to come out of Venezuela in the last half century.Ella Bric grew up in a migrant-rich town in Venezuela called San Antonio de los Altos, surrounded by a culturally-minded, socially conscious community. She’s now based in New York, and in recent years has positioned herself as a prolific producer on the rise in the Latin music space. In 2018, she won a Latin Grammy for Producer of the Year, and she says her art comes from a curiosity about the state of the world and her desire to reflect that.(00:00) Introduction(01:46) La Vida Bohème, 'Hornos del Cal'(06:41) Betsayda Machado & Parranda el Clavo, 'Sentimiento'(11:35) María Rodríguez, 'Los Dos Titanes'(15:11) Ali Primera, 'Techos de Cartón'(19:52) Linda Briceño & Orlando Watson, 'Unfinished Song'(24:38) Desorden Público, 'Politicos Paraliticos'(27:36) Bucle Lunar, 'Subió El Maldito Dolar'This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below: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