Daily Newsletter, May 1, 2024

Album Review

Funeral For Justice is a fantastic record that should not have to exist. Last summer, during Tuareg rocker Mdou Moctar’s North American tour, his home country of Niger was thrown into chaos when right-wing militants overthrew the government. The coup temporarily stranded Moctar, aka Mahamadou Souleymane, and bandmates Ahmoudou Madassane and Souleymane Ibrahim in the US, wondering what would become of their loved ones back home. It was an infuriating, terrifying situation, but it was hardly the first upsetting development in Nigerien politics lately. Moctar was so distraught and enraged by his country’s situation that he and the band had already completed their new album of political rallying cries before the coup.

The changing world of culture has resulted in different reactions to masterpieces: The Beatles' Magical Mystery Tour and Interpol's Turn on the Bright Lights.

In addition to capturing some behind-the-scenes moments from rehearsals for their upcoming tour, we connected with Sam Beam and a few members of his current backing band to discuss how Light Verse, his first album in seven years, came together.

The internet is full of music fans who love to bash famous musicians, to take them down a peg and feel better about themselves and whatever artists they prefer.

over 200 songs and albums submitted this week. some real gems. Take a listen

When you’re young, says 76-year-old singer/songwriter T Bone Burnett, everything in life is a mystery. As you get older, things get clearer and simpler. Nevertheless, for Burnett, who has worked with the likes of Bob Dylan, Robert Plant, and Brandi Carlile throughout his illustrious career, even at a young age he was “audio-oriented.” He knew early on that he loved sound more than anything. More than painting, more than mathematics. That much was clear. “Then the rest of it,” says Burnett, who is set to release his latest LP The Other Side on Friday (April 19), “is just chasing down what sound is. That’s been my whole life.” Sound, not as a certainty, but as a guide.

In the solo parent zone this week, riding high. In-progress projects are moving forward and coming together (more on that soon, or right now if you’re on the Patreon), new idea…

Hejira, at last!

Listen to our latest Folk Show, featuring Anne Briggs, Martin Simpson, Arianne Chuchman & Benedict Drew, Weyes Blood, Goblin Band, Nick Granata, Carme López and more.