NPR Music is reporting that its critic, Ann Powers, reviewed two new albums this week that explore unconventional vocal interplay. Powers highlighted Lambchop’s new album, "Punching the Clown," led by Kurt Wagner. It said Wagner’s voice, known for its cracks, is applied to erudite poetical ramblings. The album explores a form of hymnody called "lining out," an oral tradition from 17th-century churches where a main voice intones lines followed by a group. The album, recorded in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and London, aims to capture the feeling of being struck by the divine, with Wagner’s lyrics dwelling on how grace interrupts mundane existence.
NPR Music also reviewed "Hound," the second album from the Georgia-based duo hey, nothing, featuring Harlow Phillips and Tyler Mabry. It said the album, released as both members turn 21, is filled with emo riffs, shoutable choruses and stories of frayed family ties and broken hearts. The critic noted that Phillips and Mabry, who have sung together since middle school, maintain distinct vocal tones, with Phillips being full force and Mabry more inward. Their vocal interplay is described as a dialogue rather than a merge, effectively expressing the collision of pain and hope in youth.
In other NPR Music news, Sheldon Pearce reviewed L’Rain’s new album, "fata morgana." It also reported that "Weird Al" Yankovic received a second Tiny Desk concert. Anamaria Sayre wrote about Aitana’s "Superestrella" as a surprise Latin hit, and Planet Money offered a deep dive into who gets paid for music made by AI musicians. Robin Hilton and Tom Huizenga discussed new classical music and a Weezer tune on All Songs Considered. The jazz band SML talked to Julian Booker about its latest album, "Spontaneous Music Live."
Beyond album reviews, NPR Music noted the passing of foundational rock critic Dave Marsh. It also highlighted "DJs at the Polls," an effort to bring music to polling places during the midterms. The upcoming fifth album from Fontaines D.C., "Dopamine Chamber," is set to drop October 16. Ann Powers is scheduled to host conversations at the Evanston Folk Festival, featuring artists like Indigo Girls.