jazz
Robert Christgau on Jazz-Rock Staple Harriet Tubman
The Dean takes a trip around the world this week, reviewing albums from Brazil's Thiago Nassif, New Orleans' Hot 8 Brass Band, and Haiti's RAM.
Robert Christgau on Sons of Kemet's Unique 'Your Queen Is a Reptile'
The Dean of American Rock Critics reviews the British jazz group's Mercury Prize-nominated LP and Doctor Nativo's recent 'Guatemaya.'
The Guide to Getting Into Joni Mitchell, the Blueprint for Human Experience
Mitchell, in all her incarnations, remains a chief cartographer of American music and the female experience. Regardless of who you are, her map is made for you.
Arin Ray Makes Arguments Feel Like Poetry in the Video for "Damn"
The Cincinnati native is blending R&B, hip-hop, and jazz on his debut album 'Platinum Fire.'
Makaya McCraven's Utopian Vision of Jazz Could Change the World
The drummer's new album 'Universal Beings' was recorded in four cities with four bands, turning moments of improvised genius into ecstatic beatwork. It's a testament to the power of music without borders.
The Final Sermon of Childish Gambino
Donald Glover brought his Childish Gambino act to Madison Square Garden for what he claimed was the last time. It was a weirdly religious experience.
Put Some Respect on Noname
The Chicago rapper has always been an exhaustive storyteller—brimming with narrative-driven stanzas that life in Chicago has written for her—but now the story feels like it’s completely hers.
The Guide to Getting into John Coltrane's Quasi-Religious Ecstasy
Immerse yourself in the many vibrant sides of the jazz great's masterful sax work.
Mark Kozelek Tells a Weird Story on Donny McCaslin's Sharp New Single
The latest single from Grammy-nominated jazz saxophonist McCaslin, who led the band on David Bowie's 'Blackstar,' is a surprisingly seamless collaboration with a monologuing Kozelek.
Kamasi Washington Takes Spiritual Jazz In a New Direction
For the American saxophonist, there's no reason why jazz can't mix with hip-hop and video games.
Take a Tour of Free-Spirited UK Jazz in International Anthem’s Noisey Mix
The Chicago label applies their boundary blending approach to this set, which digs deep on the dizzying sounds of their compatriots across the pond.
Obviously Watch Erykah Badu's New Tiny Desk Concert
The idiosyncratic, existential soul artist warmed up with "Rimshot" before stretching out a remarkable, 12-minute "Green Eyes."