The fearless musical philosophy of Sofia Gubaidulina
A new album, marking the Russian composer's 90th birthday, is packed with probing works for huge symphonic forces.
Music Reviews
On '30,' Adele walks among us
The star who commands a planetary position in the galaxy of pop chronicles divorce and soul-searching recovery on an album that thrillingly redefines her artistry by bringing her gently down to earth.
Jackson+Sellers bring passion and grittiness to 'Breaking Point'
Jade Jackson and Aubrie Sellers are singer-songwriters who each had a solo career before getting together. Their debut album showcases a new sound that neither of them had ever achieved individually.
Spotify's 'Music + Talk' shows capture the magic of early podcasts
Critic Nick Quah says the streaming giant's foray into the music podcast field has been pleasantly experimental, with casual, compelling shows that sound lo-fi and intimate.
Snail Mail knows young love is a risk. On 'Valentine,' she dives in anyway
Lindsey Jordan's debut, which earned her the title "the future of indie rock," documented the bliss of first loves. Her sophomore album finds her just as devoted to honesty, even when the truth hurts.
Gonzalo Rubalcaba's trio finds that swinging sweet spot on 'Skyline'
The Cuban piano whiz teams up with American jazz greats Jack DeJohnette and Ron Carter on a new album. Skyline is three masters enjoying each other's company, with us listeners as lucky eavesdroppers.
On 'ALPHA,' CL finishes what she started
The member of K-pop girl group 2NE1 was poised to be a breakout star, until plans for her solo debut fell apart. Now, on the long-awaited album, her confidence and ambition feel more earned than ever.
'Feel Flows' captures the Beach Boys at the peak of their artistry
A new 5-disc reissue of the 1970 and 1971 albums Sunflower and Surf's Up reveals the Beach Boys at a crossroads, having moved beyond surf-music pop hits, and shooting for more mainstream success.
'The Last Duel' was inspired by a real trial by combat in medieval France
NPR's Steve Inskeep talks to film critic Kenneth Turan about The Last Duel, directed by Ridley Scott. The story takes place in 14th century France, based on true events about a trial by combat.
A young, all-women ensemble upends the percussion paradigm
The members of Recap, four young women of color from New Jersey, have built a mission of gender equity into their striking debut album.