Sufjan Stevens' Fifty States Of Grey
On his new album, The Ascension, Stevens beautifully considers love, doom and the modern condition of our riven commons.
Music Reviews
Country Singer Mickey Guyton Opens Up About Race And Gender In 'Black Like Me'
Guyton's hit song, off her EP Bridges, is about feeling like a stranger in one's own land. The issues Guyton raises pose new challenges — not just to country music, but to our country itself.
French-Canadian Clarinetist François Houle Bridges The Border With 'RECODER'
An improviser well-versed in modern jazz, Houle often works with international collaborators in all sorts of settings. His latest album features music from a half-Canadian, half-American quartet.
The Happy Fits Deliver Fresh And Snappy Pop On 'What Could Be Better'
The musical trio met in college and are now making some of the catchiest tunes around. Their sound features a guitarist, a drummer and one lead singer — who's also a classically trained cellist.
3 Beautiful Songs Offer Comfort In The Face Of Cruelty
Looking for music that's soothing without being sentimental? Listen to "Guilty," by Courtney Marie Andrews; "Sleeping Without You Is a Dragg," by Swamp Dogg; and "End of My Rope," by Pokey LaFarge.
Ruston Kelly's Redemption, In A Constant State Of 'Shape & Destroy'
The Nashville singer-songwriter offers a path forward in which the process of recovery continues with resolve.
Pianist James Carney's 'Pure Heart' Is A Party Where Everyone's Eager To Mingle
Carney rounds up diverse musicians in a sextet that cuts across generations, stylistic preferences and social circles. Their interpersonal chemistry flows on a new album.
Micah Thomas Is A Jazz Pianist With A Lot Of Runway
A recent graduate of Juilliard, pianist Micah Thomas has made some serious waves this season with his debut album, Tide, and several prominent sideman gigs.
The Met Opera's Live Streaming Series Sticks To Old Trappings
While a valiant endeavor, the Metropolitan Opera's new series of steaming concerts can't seem to shake off opera's fusty, aristocratic traditions.
Beyoncé's 'Black Is King' Is A Sumptuous Search For Divine Identity
The film project, released Friday on Disney's new streaming service, finds the star seeking out a shared history of Black excellence.