A Witness To History: Guest DJ Arturo O'Farrill
Alt.Latino talks to a bandleader with deep roots in Cuban music and a role in current events. O'Farrill just released a new album called Cuba: The Conversation Continues.
Music & Culture
A Rational Conversation: Does Anybody Even Have Time For An 80-Minute Album?
In a musical environment that prizes economy and the listener's ability to shuffle, skip and create playlists, is there still a place for ambitious, sprawling albums meant to be consumed all at once?
Stop The Foreign Music! African Pop Stars Ask For Government Help
Musicians in Kenya want a law forcing radio stations to play 70 percent local music. Nigeria and South Africa have similar rules. But this kind of protectionism could backfire.
Syrian Rockers, Fleeing War, Find Safety And New Fans In Beirut
Members of a Syrian indie rock band escaped their country's bloodshed and have become a mainstay of Beirut's music scene. "In spite of all the deaths," the band sings, "you are still alive."
Cumberland Caverns: A Subterranean Concert Venue In Tennessee
Ever wanted to see Jason Isbell, Shovels & Rope or Billy Joe Shaver 333 feet underground? You'll have to take a hike.
'Is It Rolling, Bob?': Remembering Producer Bob Johnston
Producing albums for Johnny Cash, Leonard Cohen and most crucially, Bob Dylan, Johnston helped give shape, heft and durability to some of the most transformative music of the past five decades.
'The Thompson Fields' Mixes Prairie Dreaming With A Big-Band Beat
Composer Maria Schneider draws on her rural Minnesota roots in her new album. Critic Kevin Whitehead says that while Schneider can do grandeur, "once in awhile, the majesty gets a little too purple."
Biopic 'Straight Outta Compton' Tells The Epic Story Of Hip-Hop And N.W.A
The original members of N.W.A produced the film, which opens nationwide Friday. Like the group's story, the making of Straight Outta Compton — which took 11 years — is filled with drama.
Anna Von Hausswolff: An Artist In Thrall To A Mega-Instrument
"When you play it, you can really feel it because you're sitting close to the pipes. It's almost as if you're becoming a part of the instrument."
At 75, Tanglewood's Student Program Holds Focus On New Music And People Making It
The Boston Symphony's summer program for young musicians has long been commissioning works and fostering new talent.