First Listen: Omar Sosa & Seckou Keita, 'Transparent Water'
The Afro-Cuban jazz pianist and Senegalese kora master make a powerful statement on this transfixing, multi-cultural affair.
Music & Culture
First Listen: Kingdom, 'Tears In The Club'
With help from Syd Tha Kid and SZA, the famed "mutant R&B" producer's long-awaited debut continues to remodel modern soul while tackling the melancholy of the club.
First Listen: Vagabon, 'Infinite Worlds'
Laetitia Tamko sings and plays guitar, synths, keyboard and drums on one of the more anticipated indie-rock records of the new year.
First Listen: Rhiannon Giddens, 'Freedom Highway'
In her new work, the Carolina Chocolate Drops vocalist speaks for the truly silenced: slaves; those murdered during the civil rights movement; young men felled by police bullets in city streets today.
First Listen: Ani Cordero, 'Querido Mundo'
The Latin rock veteran's new album is a direct musical statement about the state of affairs in the world.
First Listen: Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, 'The Tourist'
Five albums and a dozen years into its career, Alec Ounsworth's band shimmers, seethes and twitches in appealing new ways.
Misadventures In Tuning In: Considering The Limits Of Music, LSD And Science
The poet August Kleinzahler considers some recent studies on LSD's effect on music listening and remains ... unconvinced.
Beyoncé Is Not The Magical Negro Mammy
Just imagine Beyoncé, one of the world's most celebrated, recognized and highest-paid stars, being asked to "mother" Adele and Faith Hill. Not happening.
Get To Know Afro-Brazilian Music With This Alt.Latino Mixtape
Continue celebrating Black History Month with a dive into the vibrant world of Afro-Brazilian music, including hip-hop, funk, soul and jazz.
Lady Gaga, Jack Antonoff Among 142 Artists Opposing Texas 'Bathroom Bill'
The Texas Legislature is considering a bill that bans transgender people from using bathrooms that align with their gender identities.