Podcasts about best albums

Beth Orton. Chanel Beads. Cécile McLorin Salvant. Host Stephen Thompson chats with Ayana Contreras from KUVO in Denver about their favorite new albums out Friday, June 26. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction- Roberta Flack, 'The Montreux Years'(02:01) Album No. 1- Cécile McLorin Salvant, 'With Every Breath I Take'(09:11) Album No. 2- Ibeyi, 'Offering'(15:57) Album No. 3- Chanel Beads, 'Your Day Will Come'(21:52) Album No. 4- Beth Orton, 'The Ground Above'(28:34) Album No.5- ALIA, 'Where the Echoes Bloom'(33:59) The Lightning Round- Andrew Sa, 'American Rough'- Tasha, 'You Are Spring!'- Madeon, 'Victory'- Rodney Crowell, 'Then Again'- Downtown Boys, 'Public Luxury'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.orgCredits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Ayana Contreras, KUVOAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Lars Gotrich and Ann PowersSee 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

Tierra Whack. The War and Treaty. A plethora of new jazz releases. Host Stephen Thompson chats with Nate Chinen from WRTI in Philadelphia about their favorite new albums out Friday, June 19. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round.The Starting 5(01:17) Album No. 1- Tierra Whack, 'Whack's Museum'(06:43) Album No. 2- The War and Treaty, 'The Story of Michael and Tanya'(15:39) Album No. 3- Micah Thomas, 'Lucid'(20:40) Album No. 4- Your Brother's Keeper & Gary Bartz, 'Where Rivers Meet'(26:21) Album No. 5- Sam Barsh, Keyon Harrold & Mark Guiliana, 'Straight08'(32:30) The Lightning Round- Tucker Zimmerman, 'Dream Me A Dream'- The Phoenix Trio, 'Tomorrow is Today'- Janus Rasmussen, 'Inert'- Daniel Lanois, 'Belladonna Nocturne'- Wild Up, 'Gay Guerilla Vol. 5'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.orgCredits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Nate Chinen, WRTIAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Robin Hilton and Tom HuizengaSee 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 year is almost halfway over, and there have already been so many incredible new releases. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their personal best albums of 2026 so far. Plus, they'll hear picks from the production staff.Join our Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3sivr9TBecome a member on Patreon: https://bit.ly/3slWZvcSign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/4frcVZoMake a donation via PayPal: https://bit.ly/3dmt9lUSend us a Voice Memo: Desktop: bit.ly/2RyD5Ah Mobile: sayhi.chat/soundops Featured Songs:Twisted Teens, "Circus Clown," Blame the Clown, Jazz Life/ Chain Smoking, 2026The Beatles, "With A Little Help From My Friends," Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, Parlophone, 1967Courtney Barnett, "Sugar Plum," Creature of Habit, Mom + Pop, 2026Ora Cogan, "Bury Me," Hard Hearted Woman, Sacred Bones, 2026Lucinda Williams, "The World's Gone Wrong (feat. Brittney Spencer)," World's Gone Wrong, Highway 20 and Thirty Tigers, 2026Ye Vagabonds, "Mayfly V3," All Tied Together, River Lea, 2026Robyn, "Blow My Mind," Sexistential, Konichiwa and Young, 2026The Twilight Sad, "GET AWAY FROM IT ALL," It's the Long Goodbye, Rock Action, 2026Kacey Musgraves, "Everybody Wants To Be A Cowboy," Middle of Nowhere, Lost Highway, 2026Ratboys, "The World, So Madly," Singin' to an Empty Chair, New West, 2026Blood Sucking Maniacs, "Red Leg Boy," Blood Sucking Maniacs, Paradise of Bachelors, 2026Ora Cogan, "The Smoke," Hard Hearted Woman, Sacred Bones, 2026Squarepusher, "K7 Museum," Kammerkonzert, Warp, 2026Dry Cleaning, "Cruise Ship Designer," Secret Love, 4AD, 2026Genesis Owusu, "STAMPEDE," Redstar Wu & the Worldwide Scourge, Ourness, 2026Peaches, "Panna Cotta Delight," No Lube So Rude, Kill Rock Stars, 2026Jill Scott, "Right Here Right Now," To Whom This May Concern, Blues Babe, Human Re Sources, and The Orchard, 2026Golems of the Red Planet, "Hadrial," Surf Masala, Heyday Again, 2026See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Olivia Rodrigo. Pussy Riot. Hayley Kiyoko. Host Stephen Thompson chats with Nastia Voynovskaya from KQED in San Francisco about their favorite albums out Friday, June 12. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Songs of the Summer(01:59) Album No. 1• Olivia Rodrigo, 'you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love'(10:01) Album No. 2• Pussy Riot, 'CYKA'(17:31) Album No. 3• YHWH Nailgun, 'Magazine'(22:01) Album No. 4• Hayley Kiyoko, 'girls like girls (the album)'(28:31) Album No. 5• Six Sex, 'ULTRA'(34:10) The Lightning Round• Kelsey Lu, 'So Help Me God'• Ambrose Akimusire & Mary Halvorson, 'Slo-Mo Neon Luminate Hoverings'• Diles Que No Me Maten, 'Escrito en Agua'• Horse Lords, 'Demand To Be Taken Alive!'• Mon Laferte, 'Femme Fatale Vol. 2'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Nastia Voynovskaya, KQEDAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Robin Hilton, Lars Gotrich and Isabella Gomez SarmientoSee 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

I listened to every album by mathcore band Botch. Made up of musicians who would go on to form Minus the Bear, Russian Circles, and Sumac, Botch was a brutal and excitingly technical band. A must listen for fans of Dillinger Escape Plan, Coalesce, or just rad heavy music in general.   Intro 00:00 How They Formed 3:26 Unifying Themes Redux 5:25 Matt Bayles 12:39 American Nervoso 14:43 We Are the Romans 22:56 An Anthology of Dead Ends EP 28:36 The Reunion 34:15 Outro 35:30   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- My Top 77 Album Recommendations: https://every-album-ever.kit.com/0ee90183d0   Join the Patreon, it rules: https://www.patreon.com/everyalbumever   Mike's music: Pander Monkey on Bandcamp, Spotify, Apple,   Mike on Instagram @pandermonkey Tom on Instagram @tomosmansounds   Tom Osman's stuff: Music on Spotify, Apple, Website Podcast on Spotify, YouTube   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Mike's Picks: We Are the Romans (1999) -- Best Album, Personal Favorite Unifying Themes Redux (2002) -- Worst Album, Least Favorite

In the Season 8 finale, I name some of the bests of the Season 8 albums, as well as naming the Best Song and Best Album of the season.

Dive into Nevermind by Nirvana as we revisit the album's songs, production, cultural impact, and lasting influence on rock music. We talk about the rise of grunge in the early '90s, the success of “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” and why Nevermind remains one of the defining albums of its era.Then it's draft time as we pick the greatest album covers of all time. From iconic classics with instantly recognizable artwork to personal favorites, we build our ultimate album cover lineups featuring legendary picks from the past 60+ years.Support our show and join our Patreon!If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on the iTunes/Apple Podcasts app or wherever you listen. Or better yet, tell a friend to listen!Follow us on your preferred social media:TwitterFacebookInstagram

This week, our "Best Breakout Album" series continues with the 1976 hit album by Boz Scaggs, "Silk Degrees." Like our other artists so far in this topic, it took quite a while for Boz to break out; but he finally did with this smooth-sounding album. With hits like "It's Over," "What Can I Say?," "Lido Shuffle," and "Lowdown," "Silk Degrees" received a Grammy nomination for Best Album of 1976 and is still a best-selling LP/CD/Downloads, etc. to this day. Next week, Frank and I look at the 1977 Breakout Album, "The Grand Illusion" by Styx. Enjoy!

Dive into Nevermind by Nirvana as we revisit the album's songs, production, cultural impact, and lasting influence on rock music. We talk about the rise of grunge in the early '90s, the success of “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” and why Nevermind remains one of the defining albums of its era.Then it's draft time as we pick the greatest album covers of all time. From iconic classics with instantly recognizable artwork to personal favorites, we build our ultimate album cover lineups featuring legendary picks from the past 60+ years.Support our show and join our Patreon!If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on the iTunes/Apple Podcasts app or wherever you listen. Or better yet, tell a friend to listen!Follow us on your preferred social media:TwitterFacebookInstagram

Vince Staples. Zoh Amba. Death Cab for Cutie. Host Stephen Thompson chats with Laura Grant from WEXT in New York about their favorite albums out Friday, June 5. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Album No.1Death Cab for Cutie, 'I Built You a Tower' (ANTI-Records)(08:18) Album No. 2Vince Staples, 'Cry Baby' (Loma Vista Recordings)(15:43) Album No. 3Jalen Ngonda, 'Doctrine of Love' (Daptone Records)(20:41) Album No. 4Zoh Amba, 'Eyes Full' (Matador Records)(27:19) Album No. 5Laura Misch, 'Lithic' (One Little Independent Records)(32:39) Lightning Round Recommendations• Fightmaster, 'Tolerance' (Many Hats)• Red Clay Strays, 'Grateful' (RCA)• Slippers, 'Slippers 08' (Perennial)• Suzanne Ciani, Metropole Orkest, Simon Dobson, 'CIANI/ORKEST' (AKP Recordings)• Tara Clerkin Trio, 'Somewhere Good' (World of Echo)Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Laura Grant, WEXTAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Robin Hilton, Hazel Cills and Lars GotrichSee 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

Marlon Williams has taken out the top honours at this year's Aotearoa Music Awards. Williams was named Best Solo artist at the ceremony held at Auckland's Civic Theatre on Thursday night. His single, Aua Atu Rā, was named best of the year and his most recent record Te Whare Tīwekaweka was named Best Album. Entertainment correspondent Steve Newall explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boards of Canada. Kurt Vile. Iceage. Host Stephen Thompson chats with Andrew Brown of KUTX in Austin about their favorite albums out Friday, May 29. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Paul McCartney(02:00) Boards of Canada(09:22) Kurt Vile(17:01) Iceage(22:18) feeble little horse(27:45) Greg Mendez(33:46) Lightning Round Recommendations- The Greenberry Woods- obli- RaiNao- ear- Brian JacksonSample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Andrew Brown, KUTXAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Ann Powers, Robin Hilton and Anamaria SayreSee 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 Record Shop Ep. 95, May 26, 2026: On this episode we discuss Drake's Worst To Best Albums, Albums That Almost Happened, Spotify AI Deal & More 

Griefeater is a “blackened alternative-emo” band from Chicago. The Chicago Reader named their debut album ‘Worn‘ as one of the Best Albums of 2025. With guitar heavy riffs and picturesque lyrics, Griefeater paints an image of Chicago that lives in your imagination. Ethan Rader and Lukas Skucas share with host Peter Kreten how the band wrote their critically acclaimed album ‘Worn', how Zines and other physical media are a great way to experience art, and how a liquor store clerk inspired their song 'Evelyn'. Photo Credit: Eric Tan. Used with Permission

Aja Monet. Jack Antonoff's Bleachers. Radiohead's Ed O'Brien. Guest host Ann Powers chats with Aurora McGuckin of MVY Radio in Massachusetts about their favorite albums out Friday, May 22. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Bleachers, 'everyone for ten minutes'(06:55) JPEGMAFIA, 'EXPERIMENTAL RAP'(12:49) Ed O'Brien, 'Blue Morpho'(19:01) aja monet, 'the color of rain'(25:19) Lowertown, 'Ugly Duckling Union'(30:35) The Lightning Round- Alela Diane, 'Who's Keeping Time?'- Mexican Institute of Sound & Meridian Brothers, 'Ruido Tovar'- Balming Tiger, 'Gongbu'- Bill Orcutt & Mabe Fratti, 'Almost Waking'- Traumprinz, 'Life'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Ann PowersGuest: Aurora McGuckin, MVY RadioAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Lars Gotrich and Robin HiltonSee 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

While on a visit to Italy this week, Taoiseach Micheál Martin met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, the first meeting between a pontiff and a Taoiseach since 2018.Meanwhile, CMAT made headlines as she won the prestigious Ivor Novello Award for Best Album for her album 'Euro-Country'. The Irish popstar used the opportunity to urge artists to stop "sitting on the fence".And a new survey has indicated a growing interest in the Irish language on both sides of the border.Cathal O'Sullivan and Elaine Burke join The Last Word to discuss all of these and more of the week's trending stories.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!

In Episode 266 of Break Room Talk, Khairie, Jay, Ced and Chyna kick off talking this hot weather, barbers using fibers/spray, and fresh cuts. The conversation goes left into dating standards, attraction, and a wild sidebar about unsolicited pics. They recap a quick LA trip with brutal traffic, heat, melted shoe glue, dehydration and throwing up, plus a stop at Nipsey Hussle's Marathon Burger, gang culture and hats and of course they close by reviewing Drake's “Iceman,” beat switches, hooks, authenticity, and lingering Kendrick-related shots.00:00 Break Room Roll Call00:58 Hot Week Check In01:45 Haircuts And Beijing Talk05:02 Makeup Preferences Debate09:11 Attraction Standards Argument17:38 Micro Penis Rabbit Hole23:01 Dick Pics And Nudes Etiquette26:07 Wild Flirting Banter26:28 LA Trip Reality Check27:57 Heat Sickness Road Story30:49 LA Traffic vs New York32:42 LA Vibes and Tourist Hustles33:39 Marathon Burger Stop35:36 Gang Culture and Hat Colors37:59 Drake Iceman Album Ratings39:17 Greatest Drake Debate48:24 Songwriting Hooks and Beat Switches55:24 Drake Album Expectations56:30 Contrarian Takes Debate58:22 Numbers Versus Quality01:01:23 Grammy Worthy Standards01:04:16 Comeback Album Critique01:05:48 Old Drake Versus Growth01:07:07 Beefs And Victim Talk01:09:56 Authenticity And Flex Rap01:14:30 Ratings And Wrap Up01:19:12 Khaled And Cole Fallout

whether u planned it or not.. on episode of CD Burners the guys are joined by The Academy Is... vocalist William Beckett to dive into Death Cab for Cutie's 6th album, Plans. The guys unpack why this record still feels like a seasonal memory you can step back into, from the quiet heartbreak and restraint baked into every track to the way it shaped an entire generation of lyric-first songwriting. William also gets into his own early influences, covering these songs live, and what it means to grow up on music that makes sadness feel strangely comforting. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jobi Riccio. Dua Saleh. Tank and the Bangas. Plus, others not named Drake! NPR Music's Stephen Thompson chats with Joe Kendrick of WNCW in North Carolina about their favorite albums out Friday, May 15. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer their personal picks in the lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction & Jobi Riccio, 'Face The Feeling'(07:49) Dua Saleh, 'Of Earth & Wires'(15:38) Tank and the Bangas, 'The Last Balloon'(21:41) Cocanha, 'Flame Folclòre'(26:50) Tamikrest, 'Assikel'(33:01) The Lightning Round- Eluvium, 'Virga III'- Kevin Morby, 'Little Wide Open- Martyn, 'Music for Existing'- Julieta Venegas, 'Norteña'- Jeff Parker ETA IVtet, 'Happy Today'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Joe Kendrick, WNCWAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Lars Gotrich and Anamaria SayreSee 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

MUNA. Stephen Sanchez. Lykke Li. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson chats with Celia Gregory from WNXP in Nashville about their favorite albums out Friday, May 8. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in our lightning round. The Starting 5(00:00) MUNA, 'Dancing On The Wall'(08:17) Aldous Harding, 'Train on the Island'(16:00) Deb Never, 'Arcade'(22:15) Lykke Li, 'The Afterparty'(28:12) Stephen Sanchez, 'LOVE, LOVE, LOVE'(34:46) The Lightning Round- Ashley McBryde, 'Wild'- Broken Social Scene, 'Remember The Humans'- Ray Bull, 'Please Stop Laughing'- Anastasia Kristensen, 'Bestiarium Sombre'- Amy Grant, 'The Me That Remains'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Celia Gregory, WNXPAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Robin Hilton, Ann Powers and Lars GotrichSee 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

Kacey Musgraves. American Football. Tori Amos. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson chats with Jewly Hight from WPLN in Nashville about their favorite albums out Friday, May 1. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in our lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Kacey Musgraves, 'Middle of Nowhere'(08:41) American Football, 'American Football (LP4)'(16:25) Isaiah Rashad, 'IT'S BEEN AWFUL'(21:42) Tori Amos, 'In Times of Dragons'(28:09) Ana Roxanne, 'Poem 1'(33:38) The Lightning Round- Jesca Hoop, 'Long Wave Home'- Casper Sage, 'PATINA'- duendita, 'existential thottie'- Maisy Owen, 'Dark on a Sunny Day'- Octo Octa, 'Sigils For Survival'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Jewly Hight, WPLNAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Ann Powers and Hazel CillsSee 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

Noah Kahan. Kehlani. The return of Metric. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson chats with DJ Llu from Vermont Public about their favorite albums out Friday, April 24. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in our lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Noah Kahan, 'The Great Divide'(09:28) Kehlani, 'Kehlani'(16:14) Metric, 'Romanticize The Dive'(21:33) Gia Margaret, 'Singing'(28:27) Season 2, 'Power of Now'(34:12) The Lightning Round- Quiet Light, 'Blue Angel Sparkling Silver 2'- Kiki Cavazos, 'Goodbye Blues'- Carla dal Forno, 'Confession'- The Milk Carton Kids, 'Lost Cause Lover Fool'- Trueno, 'TURR4ZO'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: DJ Llu, Vermont PublicAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Hazel Cills, Ann Powers and Anamaria SayreSee 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

Honey Dijon. Yaya Bey. Shadowy pop from Sofia Isella. Guest host Hazel Cills chats with Nastia Voynovskaya from KQED in San Francisco about their favorite albums out Friday, April 17. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in our lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Introduction & Nine Inch Nails & Boys Noize, 'Nine Inch Noize'(02:47) Honey Dijon, 'The Nightlife'(09:05) Jessie Ware, 'Superbloom'(16:22) Sofia Isella, 'Something is a shell' EP(22:43) Eaves Wilder, 'Little Miss Sunshine'(28:56) Yaya Bey, 'Fidelity'(34:33) The Lightning Round- Kathryn Mohr, 'Carve'- Protoje, 'The Art of Acceptance'- PPJ, 'Joker' EP- Iceland Symphony Orchestra, 'Arvo Pärt: Complete Symphonies'- Adrian Younge, 'Younge'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.orgCredits:Host: Hazel CillsGuest: Nastia Voynovskaya, KQEDAudio Producers: Noah Caldwell, Alina EdwardsDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Tom Huizenga and Rodney CarmichaelSee 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

THANK YOU COMMUNITEA!!! Can you believe it? The Minoritea Report is turning 7!

Today we're interviewing Mitsuru Tabata and he's walking us through every album by Japanese noise metal band Zeni Geva. Formed by KK Null in 1987, Zeni Geva was a metal band like no other, blending sludge, doom, prog, and noise to create a spectacularly brutal sound. And now Tabata is here to give us all the insight into this amazing band.   Who Is Zeni Geva? 00:00 Relationship with Steve Albini 1:01 Origin of the Band Name 2:45 Correcting a Longtime Online Mistake 3:40 How to Kill 4:33 Maximum Love + Fuck 6:06 Maximum Money Monster 8:07 Total Castration 11:55 Nai-Ha/Superunit 17:02 Desire for Agony 21:42 Freedom Bondage 25:23 10,000 Light Years 36:26 Tabata's Final Days w/ ZG 48:49 Tabata's Favorite ZG Album 51:32 Mike and Tom's Album Picks 55:05 Outro 1:16:31   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Join the Patreon, it rules: https://www.patreon.com/everyalbumever   Mike's music: Pander Monkey on Bandcamp, Spotify, Apple,   Mike on Instagram @pandermonkey Tom on Instagram @tomosmansounds   Tom Osman's stuff: Music on Spotify, Apple, Website Podcast on Spotify, YouTube     ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Mike's Picks: Freedom Bondage (1995) -- Best Album, Personal Favorite How to Kill (1987) -- Worst Album, Least Favorite   Tom's Picks: 10,000 Light Years (2001) -- Best Album Desire for Agony (1993) -- Personal Favorite Maximum Love and Fuck (1989) -- Worst Album, Least Favorite   Albums discussed this episode... How to Kill (1987) Maximum Love and Fuck (1989) Maximum Money Monster (1990) Total Castration (1991) Nai-Ha/Superunit (1993/1996) Desire for Agony (1993) Freedom Bondage (1995) 10,000 Light Years (2001)

Linda Ronstadt is this week's Featured Artist, in our continuing "Classic Conversations." Her voice may be silenced now, but her music continues on forever! Next week, we'll continue in the month of April with one of the Best Last Albums ever--"Abbey Road." Remember, you can vote for the Top 14 Best Albums of all-time--right now!

Ella Langley. Wesley Joseph. The spellbinding Juni Habel. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson chats with Chloe Kimes from WMOT in Nashville about their favorite albums out Friday, April 10. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in our lightning round.The Starting 5(00:00) Ella Langley, 'Dandelion'(08:24) Tenille Townes, 'The Acrobat'(15:53) Wesley Joseph, 'Forever Ends Someday'(21:22) Brown Horse, 'Total Dive'(27:03) Juni Habel, 'Evergreen In Your Mind'(32:31) The Lightning Round- Gracie and Rachel, 'If We Could, Would We'- Melanie Baker, 'Somebody Help Me, I'm Being Spontaneous!'- upsammy & Valentina Magaletti, 'Seismo'- Spirit Adrift, 'Infinite Illumination'- Drivin N Cryin, 'Crushing Flowers'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.orgCredits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Chloe Kimes, WMOTAudio Producers: Noah Caldwell, Alina EdwardsDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Lars Gotrich, Ann Powers and Hazel CillsTo 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

Listen to the songs here-https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7bQUciJ8hkdNTEYu3Pz37s?si=1Fx_2hkfQyu6oXJ1jiL2hQ&pi=ipcQD6FIRMmqkWelcome to another thunderous episode of Metal Maniacs — where hosts Jay Ingersoll and Modd dive head‑first into the chaos, riffs, and molten steel of the underground and modern metal scene.In this special "Mixtape of the Year" episode, the Maniacs go beyond the blast beats and double‑kicks of their Best Albums of 2025 list to hand‑craft the ultimate 2025 metal mixtape. Imagine the heaviest riffs, filthiest grooves, most face‑melting solos, and the scream‑along hooks that defined metal in 2025 — all fused into one unstoppable playlist.We're talking about the records that ruled the year — from blackened death and tech‑thrash to modern metalcore and doom‑soaked sludge. Jay and Modd share raw reactions, deep production notes, and stories behind the tracks that earned their repeat listens.Whether you ride for the underground or headbang to the mainstream, this mixtape cuts across the spectrum, celebrating innovation, brutality, and pure metal energy. Expect unfiltered banter, zero poser talk, and 100% metal authenticity.

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

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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Join Kris and friends as they dive into fun discussions on pop culture, music, trending topics, and everything in between! Whether you're looking for laughs, hot takes, or just something to vibe to, KrisCross Corner has got you covered. —  MORE FROM KRISCROSS CORNER  — Make sure to Join the KrisCross Studios Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/kriscrosscorner/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@kriscrossstudios iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/kriscross-studios/id6449445819    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/21S54f6JNK3mxkVkVgGAxH   

Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream" set the blueprint for the term "Pop Bible", six smash singles, five number ones, and cultural moments that defined a generation. But which 2020s pop album comes closest to claiming that throne? In Part 1 of Vinyl Drop's first Pop Bible, Keith Montena is joined by AJ Marks, host of Main Pod Girl and lead moderator at Reddit's Popheads, to break down what made Teenage Dream so defining, before diving deep into Dua Lipa's Future Nostalgia. Released March 27th, 2020, just as the world shut down due to Covid-19, Future Nostalgia became one of the defining pop rollout of the pandemic era. We discuss the rollout, the music, the history, and whether this album holds a candle to Teenage Dream, before going head to head with Sabrina Carpenter's Short N Sweet later on. Which album wins? You'll have to listen to find out.

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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR 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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

It is a pleasure to welcome singer Dawn Derow to the Jake's Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   A New Yorker by way of Cape Cod, Dawn has been captivating audiences for more than 17 years with extraordinary versatility, moving seamlessly from Puccini to Brandi Carlile to Broadway and jazz. A graduate of the Boston Conservatory, she has performed on world-class stages including Carnegie Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and London's The Pheasantry, as well as leading New York City venues such as 54 Below, Birdland, The Green Room 42, and the Laurie Beechman Theatre. Beyond New York, she has headlined nationally at the Dakota Jazz Club, Café Centro, Provincetown's Post Office Café, and appeared with the Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra.   Dawn Derow's artistry has earned her three MAC Awards (including Best Female Vocalist and Best Album), a Bistro Award, and glowing reviews for acclaimed shows like Revolution, Legit: A Classical Cabaret, and My Ship: Songs from 1941. Her album My Ship won Best Album at the MAC Awards, with Cabaret Scenes hailing her as “a supremely accomplished artist” with “a remarkable range.” Her acclaimed tribute, Dawn Derow Sings Eydie Gormé (played both at Birdland and 54 below, NYC), was praised for its vocal fireworks and recently played to packed houses, cementing her reputation as one of cabaret's most versatile performers.Equally at home on the theatrical stage, Dawn has starred as Antonia in Man of La Mancha, Cathy in The Last Five Years, Adele in Die Fledermaus, and most recently Francesca in The Bridges of Madison County at the Delray Beach Playhouse — a performance that earned rave reviews and the award for Outstanding Actress in a Mainstage Production (2025). Internationally, she has brought her cabaret artistry abroad with sold-out runs at London's Pheasantry (My Ship, 2023; Women's Work, 2024) and a recent premiere of Because I Can/Porque Yo Puedo in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.Expanding her creative reach, Dawn co-produces Dorothy Dandridge: The Musical and originated the role of gossip columnist Hedda Hopper in its workshop. Offstage, she teaches mobility classes, provides Thai massage, and supports older adults in wellness programs. She divides her time between New York and Florida, returning to Provincetown each summer to perform.   On this episode of The Jake's Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Dawn Derow spoke about the feeling of performing on Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center's hallowed stages and her latest single, “Everything's Going to Be Alright,” which features a surprise video appearance with Dawn's collaborator, Sean Harkness.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Multi award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter, pianist, CBC Music national radio host and 2026 GRAMMY Award nominee Laila Biali has headlined festivals and venues spanning five continents from New York City's Carnegie Hall to Beijing's National Centre for the Performing Arts, and supported international icon Sting. Her JUNO-nominated 2023 album, Your Requests, featured a stellar cast of guests and received a 4.5 star rave review in All About Jazz. Her previous release, Out of Dust, was also JUNO nominated (in 2021) and won Laila spots on “Best Album” lists around the globe. In 2020, Laila was honoured by SOCAN Music with the Hagood Hardy Award for Excellence in Songwriting. The previous year, Laila's eponymous release won her a JUNO for “Vocal Jazz Album of the Year” and top prize at the Canadian Songwriting Competition in the Jazz category. Laila was the youngest-ever double winner at Canada's National Jazz Awards when she was named “SOCAN Composer of the Year” and “Keyboardist of the Year”, and she received her first JUNO nomination for Tracing Light in 2011. When Laila isn't on stage or in the studio, she's busy hosting CBC Music's national radio show, Saturday Night Jazz – a weekly program broadcast to millions of listeners across Canada. And while she continues to earn high honours in the jazz world, Laila's signature sound transcends genre – “masterfully mixes jazz and pop, bringing virtuosity and unpredictability to songs that are concise and catchy” (Washington Post). Her highly anticipated seasonal album, Wintersongs, was nominated for a 2025 JUNO Award and a 2026 GRAMMY alongside heavyweights Lady Gaga, Barbra Streisand, Elton John & Brandi Carlile, Jennifer Hudson and Laufey.

We're back!Sorry for the delay! Happy belated birthday Sofia!Today we're reviewing Nick Jonas' new solo album "Sunday Best", which was released February 6, 2026. (Review starts around the 20 min mark)Do you have a fave song from this album?

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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR 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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR 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 MohamedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR 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 MohamedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

On this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson sits down with Dr. Roger E. Hartley of the University of Baltimore's College of Public Affairs for a wide-ranging discussion on the future of public service in Maryland.Hartley reflects on his decade as dean and discusses how institutions of higher learning can better partner with state and local governments to strengthen leadership pipelines, modernize workforce training, and meet emerging challenges. Drawing on the Certified Public Manager program and paid public service internships, the conversation explores how to fill that county-university gap. They also examine broader themes facing public service today, such as an aging workforce, breaking down silos between agencies, and the need for interdisciplinary solutions to health, housing, and sustainability.In true Conduit Street fashion, this episode even ventures into music, craft beer, and Dr. Hartley's plans visit all 122 Maryland breweries.If you care about the future of local government, workforce development, and the evolving mission of public service, this podcast episode was recorded just for you! Check out Pitchfork's 50 Best Albums of 2025Follow us on Socials!MACo on TwitterMACo on Facebook

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 MohamedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Superhero Show #613Best Album of 2025 Pt. 2The Superhero Show Show: The Best Album of 2025 Pt. 2 Bracket Reaches Its Final ShowdownJoin the hosts as The Superhero Show returns with Best Album of 2025 Pt. 2, the thrilling conclusion to their musical detour from Cadillacs and Dinosaurs. After setting the stage in part one, this episode is where the bracket tightens, the debates get sharper, and the final decision is made. With passions running high and strong opinions on the line, the hosts work their way toward crowning the album that ultimately takes the title—officially locking in the winner as the show's choice heading into 2026.Narrowing the Field: Best Album of 2025 Pt. 2 Gets CompetitiveIn Best Album of 2025 Pt. 2, the bracket resumes with fewer contenders and much higher stakes. Albums that survived the first round now face tougher matchups, forcing the hosts to compare not just quality, but impact, longevity, and cultural relevance. Each discussion digs deeper into sound, experimentation, and how these records defined the year.As the bracket progresses, earlier favorites get tested, surprise underdogs gain momentum, and consensus becomes harder to reach. The episode captures that turning point where casual debate turns into full-on advocacy.Critics vs. Personal Picks: The Final BattlesThis episode also highlights the collision between critically acclaimed albums and the hosts' personal favorites. Records like Lux by Rosalía, Debí Tirar Más Fotos by Bad Bunny, Mayhem by Lady Gaga, Let God Sort Em Out by Clipse, Choke Enough by OKLOU, Getting Killed by Geese, Viagra Boys by Viagra Boys, and Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party by Hayley Williams all come back into focus as the hosts reassess which albums truly deserve to advance.Because the field is smaller, every elimination feels bigger. The hosts revisit earlier arguments, challenge their own assumptions, and wrestle with whether innovation, emotional connection, or sheer replay value should matter most.The Final Vote: Best Album of 2025 Pt. 2 Crowns a WinnerAs Best Album of 2025 Pt. 2 reaches its climax, the hosts make their final votes. The bracket closes, the debates settle, and one album rises above the rest. Whether the winner is a critical darling, a personal favorite, or an unexpected champion, the decision feels earned after two episodes of passionate discussion.Final Thoughts: Best Album of 2025 Pt. 2 Delivers the VerdictIn the end, Best Album of 2025 Pt. 2 delivers exactly what it promises: a decisive, spirited conclusion to The Superhero Show's biggest musical experiment yet. By borrowing the “Best Of” format from Movie of the Year and applying it to music, the hosts prove they can argue albums with the same intensity they bring to TV and film.With a winner officially crowned and carried into 2026, this episode stands as a loud, fun, and deeply opinionated celebration of a standout year in music.Looking for More?Want more "Best of 2025" episodes? Check out Movie of the Year podcast!Catch Up On Past Episodes!Missed any of the past best of 2025 episodes? Catch up here!Watch Along With Us!Want to watch along with us? Of course you do! Here's a link to all the episodes!

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 MohamedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Lucinda Williams. Julian Lage. The debut from rising Americana star Kashus Culpepper. Stephen Thompson from NPR Music chats with Jessie Scott from WMOT in Nashville about the best new albums out Friday, Jan. 23.The Starting 5(00:00) Intro: Cat Power, 'Redux' EP(02:14) Lucinda Williams, 'World's Gone Wrong'(07:36) Carolina Chocolate Drops, 'Genuine Negro Jig' (15th Anniversary Edition)(15:19) Kashus Culpepper, 'Act I'(20:00) The Lowest Pair, 'Always As Young As We'll Ever Be'(25:29) Julian Lage, 'Scenes From Above'The Lightning Round- Ari Lennox, 'Vacancy'- Sammy Brue, 'The Journals'- V/A, 'Naive Melodies'- Della Mae, 'Magic Accident'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist on NPR.org.CreditsHost: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Jessie Scott, WMOTAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ya Tseen. The Sha La Das. A mesmerizing collaboration between Julianna Barwick and Mary Lattimore. Stephen Thompson from NPR Music is joined by Alex Newman from KMHD in Portland to chat about the best albums out Friday, January 16.The Starting 5(00:00) Intro & A$AP Rocky, 'Don't Be Dumb'(02:36) Julianna Barwick & Mary Lattimore, 'Tragic Magic'(07:43) The Sha La Das, 'Your Picture'(15:33) Ya Tseen, 'Stand On My Shoulders'(21:53) Shaking Hand, 'Shaking Hand'(27: 43) Tyler Ramsey & Carl Broemel, 'Celestun'The Lightning RoundCraig Taborn, Tomeka Reid & Ches Smith, 'Dream Archives'Courtney Marie Andrews, 'Valentine'Diogo Strausz, 'Dance Para Se'Oxis, 'Oxis 8'Nate Smith, 'LIVE-ACTION (Deluxe)'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist on NPR.orgCredits: Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Alex Newman, KMHDAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Elle MannionEditor: Otis HartExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Dry Cleaning. Jenny on Holiday. An introspective debut from Mon Rovîa. Stephen Thompson from NPR Music is joined by Celia Gregory from WNXP in Nashville to talk about their favorite new albums out Friday, January 9.The Starting 5(00:00) Intro(00:31) Dry Cleaning, 'Secret Love'(06:53) Jenny on Holiday, 'Quicksand Heart'(15:12) Mon Rovîa, 'Bloodline'(21:22) Home Star, 'A Binding Life'(27:07) Kris Davis and the Lutoslawski Quartet, 'The Solastalgia Suite'The Lightning Round• Zach Bryan, 'With Heaven On Top'• The Cribs, 'Selling A Vibe'• Pullman, 'III'• Clémentine March, 'Powder Keg'• Rawayana, '¿Dónde Es El After?'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist on NPR.org.CreditsHost: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Celia Gregory, WNXPAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Elle MannionEditor: Otis HartExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

If we needed any more proof that the album isn't dead, 2025 was it. On this episode, Stephen Thompson is joined by Ann Powers and Daoud Tyler-Ameen to run through 12 dazzling albums that stuck with the NPR Music team this year. And for an even deeper exploration, check out the full lists of our critics' best albums of 2025 here.Artists and albums featured on this episode:- Rosalía, 'LUX'- Wednesday, 'Bleeds'- Nourished by Time, 'The Passionate Ones'- Daniel Caesar, 'Son of Spergy'- Dave, 'The Boy Who Played the Harp'- Clarice Jensen, 'In holiday clothing, out of the great darkness'- Gwenifer Raymond, 'Last Night I Heard the Dog Star Bark'- Kal Banx, 'RHODA'- Mary Halvorson, 'About Ghosts'- Annie DiRusso, 'Super Pedestrian'- Queralt Lahoz, '9:30 PM'- Patrick Watson, 'Uh Oh'Enjoy the show? Share it with a friend and leave us a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This week, Louis is joined by former The Circle contestant and pop culture commentator Courtney Revolution to discuss the Golden Globe nominations, Spotify Wrapped, their top albums of 2025, and the biggest celebrity gossip of the year, including Quentin Tarantino vs. Paul Dano, Blake Lively vs. Justin Baldoni, Diddy, Sydney Sweeney's GAP ad, and Jimmy Kimmel vs. Trump. They later Keep It to Vanderpump Rules and the latest episode of Heated Rivalry. Louis also sits down with Diane Kruger to dive into her career and latest project, Little Disasters.  Subscribe to Keep It on YouTube to catch full episodes, exclusive content, and other community events. Find us there at YouTube.com/@KeepItPodcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.