Iceland's own Júníus Meyvant won his home country's equivalent of a Grammy for "Song of the Year," and he's making an international name for himself with soulful folk-pop that's both emotive and uplifting. His debut album, "Floating Harmonies" just came out. He blends smooth sounds with blues tunes on his playlist, which features tracks from The Bee Gees, B.B. King, and more.
Scottish composer Anna Meredith's background is in classical music, but she's acclaimed for her jubilant synth pop. The Guardian says her work, "conjures images of a jetpack through the northern lights." Anna's latest album "Varmints" just won Scotland's Album of the Year Award and she's touring the U.K. now. Here's she is with a playlist for the next time you liven up your dinner party with a little "American Ninja Warrior" inspiration.
Cass McCombs, the modern-day troubadour whose songwriting has long been a favorite of other musicians. His new album called "Mangy Love" is out in August. Here's a track from it called "Opposite House."
You may recognize Dan Finnerty and Dan Band's foul-mouthed renditions of pop songs from "The Hangover" and "Old School," where he tarted up "Total Eclipse of the Heart". He gives us a playlist you MUST keep out of your wedding DJ's clutches.
Xavier Dphrepaulezz, better known by his stage name, Fantastic Negrito. He survived homelessness and a near fatal car crash to create what he describes as "black roots music for everyone" with "zero concern for 'pop' anything." Gives us a playlist featuring cuts from legends like Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and more.
Yo-Yo Ma is one of the best-known classical musicians in the world. He's produced 90 albums and received 18 Grammy awards. In his new documentary, he gives us a closer look at his world/classical music super group, the Silk Road Ensemble, and tells us why music is a lot like a Martini.
Canadian twins Tegan and Sara started as an indie folk duo, but these days they're highlighting a more pop sensibility. Their new album, "Love You To Death," features catchy hooks and harmonies. They bust each other’s chops as they put together an eclectic mix of tunes featuring Mykki Blanco, Shura, and more.
Singer Jamila Woods has been featured on some Chance The Rapper tracks, as well as a Macklemore single. But this week she releases an album of her own. It's called "Heavn." Here's the eponymous single.
Kevin Morby's new album, "Singing Saw," has earned raves, including Pitchfork's "Best New Music" honor. The singer-songwriter sat down for a guest list session with us, in which an interesting person lists some interesting things. Below, Kevin introduces himself... and shares a lonely(ish) list.
All the music from episode 343.