Bad Bunny Creates an Astonishing (Inter)cultural Moment
Bad Bunny uses nostalgia to spark a connection with the fans and denounce the risks of a future without the people or the culture they love.
Music
Features, reviews, interviews, and lists about music, covering the latest as well historical topics.
James Brown and Prince Were Uptight As Funk
James Brown and Prince’s music was loose, wild, and emotional. Yet they knew that you’ve got to be uptight if you want to do funk right.
Zzzahara Combines Thrills and Chills on ‘Spiral Your Way Out’
zzzahara’s new LP is about making the best of a bad situation, of transforming darkness into light. It’s a bittersweet testament to the spirit of Los Angeles.
Heather Maloney Channels Joni and Father’s Death Into Music
Heather Maloney’s latest release, Exploding Star, suggests the benefits of empathy and mourning when one is not bereaved. Sadness can bring us joy.
Brian John McBrearty’s New Album Exudes Warmth and Mystery
With his latest LP, Brian John McBrearty is ably assisted by stellar fellow musicians and has begun another artistic chapter with beauty, grace, and passion.
Cataloging Punk Permutations
Iain Ellis’ engaging Punk Beyond the Music’ goes beyond the usual permutations of punk into the fascinating cultural arenas of comedy, education, and sports.
Decoding the Rap-Comic Complex in Childish Gambino’s Final LP
Through a dystopian plot, Childish Gambino’s final record attempts to narrate his insecurity, as opposed to its raw, uncomplicated exploration in Atavista.
Natalia Lafourcade Is Brilliant at Carnegie Hall
Listeners should love this chance to luxuriate in Natalia Lafourcade’s beloved songs and spend an intimate evening with this gracious spirit.
The Bongo Hop Visit Colombia on the Brassy ‘La Pata Coja’
For all the Bongo Hop owe to Sevet’s time in Colombia, La Pata Coja centers less around abstract ideas of place than it does around people.
Belly’s 1995 Album ‘King’ Surprised with Its Rock Sound
Belly’s rock-oriented follow-up, King, to their dream pop debut, Star, didn’t deserve its fate. It showcases a talented group stretching their sound.
Bright Eyes’ 2005 Albums Speak to Our Individual and Collective Discontent
Bright Eyes brought their expansive and messy vision to life 20 years ago with two albums that captivated listeners then as they surely will now.
Lontalius’ Fifth Album Is Successful and Strikingly Mature
Minimalistic and captivating, Lontalius’ new album shows a more concentrated sound. It reflects his growth and marks a high watermark.