Latvian National Symphony Orchestra, Pēteris Vasks: 'Vēstījums'
The Latvian composer's epic battle of light and dark is a symphonic message about the relationship between humans and nature.
Music
World Cafe 30th Anniversary Playlist: 2001
Two decades ago at this time, we were looking back on a year punctuated with big pop hits and a ton of breakouts throughout rock, indie-rock, hip-hop and alternative music.
'Black Swans' collection showcases rare recordings of early Black classical musicians
NPR's Audie Cornish talks with Saïs Kamalidiin, a Howard University professor, about a new collection showcasing 25 recordings of early Black classical musicians called Black Swans.
KIRBY, 'Wish I Loved'
This is a song for those who have love to give, but lack a worthy recipient
Simone Dinnerstein, 'Doctors and Interns'
Listen to a highlight from composer Richard Danielpour's 15-movement piano cycle, which was inspired by essential workers' response to the pandemic.
'Fresh Air' remembers the jazz notables who died in 2021
Earlier this year, Kevin Whitehead noted the passing of Chick Corea and Mario Pavone. Now he remembers a few more players who died in 2021, including Milford Graves, Ralph Peterson and Dave Frishberg.
Varg2™ & Bladee, 'SHINIE'
Listening to Bladee in "SHINIE" is like discovering beams of sound from another planet: fleeting, yet indicative of something beautiful just out of your grasp.
girl in red, 'Did You Come?'
girl in red's "Did You Come?" is sexual without being sexy, full of hurt yet upbeat enough that you can still thrash around a bit.
Christina Aguilera, Becky G and Nicki Nicole (feat. Nathy Peluso), 'Pa Mis Muchachas'
Aided by Becky G, Nicki Nicole and Nathy Peluso, 'Pa Mis Muchachas' is a smooth guaracha ode to the Latina.
Our Favorite Artists' Favorite Music of 2021
In a year where putting on a record was the only way to escape, we wondered what how our favorite musicians fared. From Lucy Dacus on Dijon to Vince Staples on Doja Cat, these are our faves' faves.