All Songs Considered – Episode: Natalia Lafourcade, Chris Staples, more: The Contenders, Vol. 10
Release Date: May 13, 2025
Host: Robin Hilton
Contributors: Tom Huizenga, Stephen Thompson, Hazel Sills

Introduction

In this vibrant episode of NPR’s flagship music discovery podcast, All Songs Considered, hosts Robin Hilton, Tom Huizenga, Stephen Thompson, and Hazel Sills delve into a rich tapestry of contemporary and classical music. Celebrating the show’s ongoing commitment to uncovering the year's best sounds, this episode spotlights a variety of artists, including Natalia Lafourcade, Chris Staples, and Third Coast Percussion, while also taking a nostalgic look back at the top songs from 2012 as part of the show's 25th-anniversary celebrations.

Third Coast Percussion and Jaylen’s "Please Be Still"

[01:39] Stephen Thompson introduces Third Coast Percussion, a renowned percussion ensemble celebrating its 20th anniversary with a new album, Standard Stoppages. The ensemble has been collaborating with electronic composer Jaylen, who contributes the track "Please Be Still".

Tom Huizenga remarks on the blending of electronic influences with acoustic performances:

“It sounds very much like an electronic piece that is performed on acoustic instruments.” [09:30]

Stephen Thompson elaborates on the creative process:

“She composes a work and shares it with them as a sound file, and then she entrusts the band to arrange it on their acoustic instruments.” [10:01]

The discussion highlights Third Coast Percussion’s innovative approach to merging classical percussion with modern electronic elements, creating a dynamic and rhythmic experience.

Chris Staples and "Two Carat Diamond"

Transitioning to singer-songwriter Chris Staples, the hosts delve into his latest single from the upcoming album Don't Worry. The song "Two Carat Diamond" showcases Staples' economical storytelling and emotional depth.

Tom Huizenga praises the song’s narrative efficiency:

“Just that opening line. Graduated, worked hard. 2 carat diamond on a credit card… you have an entire novel in that one little line.” [15:55]

Stephen Thompson adds:

“This is a masterclass in Less is More. The song is only 2 minutes and 37 seconds long, but it packs a huge wallop of regret.” [16:15]

The hosts appreciate the song’s subtle complexity, including its vocal harmonies and melodic refrains, which add layers of meaning and emotion.

Barbara Hannigan’s "Que to Fatio" and "Electric Fields"

[19:38] Stephen Thompson introduces Barbara Hannigan, alongside pianists Katia and Marielle Lebeck, and electronics composer David Shelman, who collaborate on the album Electric Fields. The track "Que to Fatio" is highlighted for its experimental fusion of classical and electronic elements, inspired by 12th-century composer Hildegard von Bingen.

Tom Huizenga describes the piece as a surreal auditory experience:

“Do you feel like falling asleep in a time machine? That’s exactly what this track does.” [19:45]

The conversation emphasizes the album's ability to bridge ancient compositions with modern electronic soundscapes, creating a "fevered dream" that challenges traditional music boundaries.

Natalia Lafourcade’s "Cancionera" and "Cocos on la Playa"

Celebrating Mexican singer Natalia Lafourcade, the hosts discuss her new album Cancionera, which pays homage to traditional Mexican folk music while incorporating original compositions.

Tom Huizenga expresses his admiration for Natalia’s return to her roots:

“This new album is sort of all on tradition. It’s really kind of a love letter to her roots, along with some original work on it.” [27:54]

The featured song "Cocos on la Playa" captivates the hosts with its joyful and transporting vibe:

“It just slurps you up into that world and… you are there with them on the beach.” [33:00]

Stephen Thompson shares a personal connection:

“This song is especially poignant for me because up until Covid, my mom took the family to this old mom and pop hotel right on the beach.” [34:17]

The track’s blend of classic rhythms and heartfelt lyrics makes it a standout piece, resonating deeply with listeners.

Brooklyn Rider’s "Tenebrae"

[37:16] Exploring the realm of classical string ensembles, Brooklyn Rider celebrates their 20th anniversary with a performance of "Tenebrae" by Argentine composer Osvaldo Goliov. The piece, inspired by the Holy Week traditions and the image of Earth as a “tiny blue dot” from 2001: A Space Odyssey, is lauded for its emotional depth and technical prowess.

Stephen Thompson describes the piece's emotional journey:

“It is a work filled with pain, but it's also very beautiful. If you're a fan of Max Richter's 'On the Nature of Daylight,' you will love this music.” [38:58]

The hosts appreciate the composition’s ability to evoke a sense of celestial journeying and emotional turbulence, culminating in a serene resolution.

Looking Back: All Songs Considered’s Number One Songs from 2012

As part of the show’s 25th-anniversary celebration, hosts reflect on the standout tracks from 2012. Hazel Sills highlights Frank Ocean’s iconic song "Thinkin' 'Bout You" as a timeless classic that encapsulates emotional complexity.

Tom Huizenga shares his renewed appreciation:

“It usually doesn’t rain well, Frank Ocean. Thinking about you… It is timeless, and it’s a classic.” [50:03]

Hazel Sills delves into the song’s lyrical and musical brilliance:

“That song does so much in 3 minutes and 21 seconds. But what the guitar is doing in that bridge just sends me.” [52:04]

The segment also touches on Fun’s "We Are Young", Japan Droids, Best Coast, and other memorable tracks from 2012, underscoring the year’s rich musical landscape.

Conclusion

In this episode, All Songs Considered masterfully weaves together discussions on innovative percussion ensembles, poignant singer-songwriters, experimental classical fusions, and reflective retrospectives. By featuring a diverse array of artists and thoughtfully analyzing their work, the hosts provide listeners with a comprehensive and engaging exploration of contemporary music. Whether celebrating longstanding ensembles or reminiscing about past hits, the episode encapsulates the essence of music discovery that has defined the show for over two decades.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Tom Huizenga on Third Coast Percussion’s "Please Be Still":
  “It sounds very much like an electronic piece that is performed on acoustic instruments.” [09:30]

• Stephen Thompson on Chris Staples’s Storytelling:
  “This is a masterclass in Less is More. The song is only 2 minutes and 37 seconds long, but it packs a huge wallop of regret.” [16:15]

• Tom Huizenga on "Que to Fatio":
  “Do you feel like falling asleep in a time machine? That’s exactly what this track does.” [19:45]

• Tom Huizenga on Natalia Lafourcade’s "Cocos on la Playa":
  “This just slurps you up into that world and… you are there with them on the beach.” [33:00]

• Stephen Thompson on Brooklyn Rider’s "Tenebrae":
  “It is a work filled with pain, but it's also very beautiful. If you're a fan of Max Richter's 'On the Nature of Daylight,' you will love this music.” [38:58]

• Hazel Sills on Frank Ocean’s "Thinkin' 'Bout You":
  “That song does so much in 3 minutes and 21 seconds. But what the guitar is doing in that bridge just sends me.” [52:04]

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, ensuring that both avid listeners and newcomers can appreciate the depth and variety of discussions held by the All Songs Considered team.