Cynic, 'Mythical Serpents'
In "Mythical Serpents," tremolo-picked riffs undulate with ambient synths and aerobic drumming, billowing but never blowing up the melody, as if to sit inside and meditate on the music.
Music & Culture
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Four weeks into testimony in the R&B superstar's New York federal trial, it's often been hard to hear testimony from the women and men he allegedly abused.
An 'El Tiny' Takeover During Hispanic Heritage Month
Tiny Desk will devote its next month of programming to celebrating Latinx artists.
Remembering George Wein, Founder Of The Newport Jazz Festival
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Meet Neffy, The Winner Of The 2021 Tiny Desk Contest
After thousands of entries, the Tiny Desk Contest judges have landed on this year's winner.
Cleo Sol, 'Spirit'
Cleo Sol's immense and personal sophomore album, Mother, comes to a conclusion with "Spirit," a song that leans heavily and wonderfully on gospel instrumentation and '70s soul production.
Makthaverskan, 'This Time'
A drum machine-beat mingles with an organic kit as a jangly guitar melody bounces through misty synths, creating a liminal space to process loss: a spiraling nightmare of regret that is oh so pretty.
Saxophonist Joel Frahm Proves Himself A Master Storyteller On 'The Bright Side'
Frahm has a brawny tenor sax sound, strong and consistent from top to bottom. His new trio album shows off his ability to use pacing and momentum to tell a compelling story.
Ari Lennox, 'Pressure'
With "Pressure," the Dreamville Records vocalist elevates her status as a neo-soul touchstone, referencing the soul divas before her and leading the way for those to come with fearless charm.
Girl K, 'Departures'
"Departures" draws strength through its resistance to stability; the track ripples and morphs across melancholic, synth-soaked '80s melodies, rocking jam sessions and cooing vocal breakdowns.