All Songs Considered: New Music Friday – The Best Albums Out April 25, 2025

Released on April 25, 2025

Hosts:

• Stephen Thompson (NPR)
• Ayanna Contreras (KUVO Jazz and the Drop, Denver, Colorado)

Introduction

In this episode of NPR's All Songs Considered, hosts Stephen Thompson and Ayanna Contreras delve into the latest releases in the music world, spotlighting the best albums that dropped on April 25, 2025. From rising R&B sensations to eclectic jazz compositions, the duo provides insightful commentary, notable quotes, and a comprehensive overview of each featured album.

Coco Jones – Why Not More

Overview:
Coco Jones, a multi-talented artist known for her acting on Disney Channel and the Peacock reboot of Bel-Air, makes her official debut with the R&B album Why Not More. Despite her extensive experience in the entertainment industry, this album marks her first significant foray into music as a sole artist.

Key Points:

• Background and Rise:
  Coco Jones has been active in the industry since her childhood, balancing roles in acting and music. Her transition into a full-fledged musician has been lauded, with Grammy nominations, including Best New Artist (2024), and a win for Best R&B Performance (2024).

• Musical Style and Themes:
  The album blends contemporary R&B with nostalgic early 2000s vibes, reflecting a resurgence of early aughts nostalgia among Gen Z listeners. Tracks like "Never Too Much" and "Keep It Quiet" showcase her versatility and depth as an artist.

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen Thompson (04:10): "Coco Jones is a very fast rising R&B star... this is her official debut album, but it's already establishing the scope and expanse of her talent."
• Ayanna Contreras (07:10): "There's a lot of early aughts sounding R&B on here, which is, you know, kind of on trend."

Samia – Bloodless

Overview:
Samia, daughter of actress Kathy Najimy, continues to defy the "nepo baby" label with her authentic songwriting and genre-blending sounds in her third album, Bloodless. Her work is characterized by intricate lyrics and a seamless fusion of various musical influences.

Key Points:

• Artistic Lineage and Authenticity:
  While Samia benefits from her illustrious family background, her dedication to her craft and unique voice set her apart as a genuine artist.

• Album Composition and Themes:
  Bloodless traverses a wide emotional and sonic landscape, touching on themes of neurodivergence, mental health, and personal trauma. Songs like "Carousel" and "Bovine Excision" highlight her ability to intertwine specific personal experiences with universal emotions.

Notable Quotes:

• Ayanna Contreras (10:45): "There's a lot of interesting recordings. It made me want to go like, get some organic milk out of a cow in the field somewhere."
• Stephen Thompson (12:11): "Listening to this record and the way it's sequenced... to close on that note of joy and optimism and gratitude, I found really powerful."

Emma Jean Thackray – Weirdo

Overview:
Emma Jean Thackray, a prominent figure in the London jazz scene and a recipient of critical acclaim through her involvement with Brownswood Recordings, releases Weirdo. The album is a testament to her eclectic style and contemplative lyricism.

Key Points:

• Musical Diversity:
  Emma's work on Weirdo draws from P-Funk, '70s soul, and contemporary jazz, creating a rich tapestry of sounds that defy easy categorization. Collaborations with artists like Reggie Watts add layers of complexity and innovation.

• Lyrical Depth:
  The album serves as a reflection on neurodivergence and coping with trauma, particularly poignant following the loss of her long-term partner. Tracks like "Please Leave Me Alone" and "Thank You for the Day" navigate these themes with both emotional depth and moments of levity.

Notable Quotes:

• Ayanna Contreras (20:41): "I kept listening to her voice, thinking, what does she sound like? Who does she sound like? And I landed on Brenda Russell."
• Stephen Thompson (21:00): "This is a record about coming to grips with how your brain works as you're processing trauma."

David Murray – Berdly Serenade

Overview:
Renowned saxophonist and composer David Murray presents Berdly Serenade, an album that explores the intersection of free jazz and thematic soundscapes inspired by bird conservation efforts.

Key Points:

• Project Background:
  Part of the larger Bird Song Project, Berdly Serenade collaborates with artists like Flaming Lips, Mark Ronson, and Yo-Yo Ma, aiming to raise awareness for bird conservation alongside musical exploration.

• Musical Exploration:
  The album features a mix of cool bop influences and free jazz improvisations. Tracks like "Blackbird's Gonna Light Up the Night" exemplify Murray's ability to blend structured compositions with spontaneous creativity.

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen Thompson (25:17): "Instead, what you get is this really far-flung assortment of ideas and songs that are really expansive and wild."
• Ayanna Contreras (26:46): "There's a clear connection of P-Funk, '70s soul, jazz, but also some other little notes, and it's very cool."

Fly Anakin – Forever Dream

Overview:
Fly Anakin, a versatile rapper and producer from Richmond, Virginia, releases Forever Dream, an album marked by its psychedelic influences and collaborative spirit. The project features an array of guest artists, enhancing its rich sonic landscape.

Key Points:

• Collaborative Effort:
  The album boasts contributions from Denmark Vesey, Pink Siifu, and producer Quelle Chris, among others. This network of collaborators brings diverse styles and perspectives to the project.

• Musical and Thematic Elements:
  Forever Dream interweaves dark, acid-trip aesthetics with spiritual undertones. Tracks like "Good Clothes" and "Lord Forgives I Hold Grudges" showcase Fly Anakin's lyrical prowess and the album's thematic depth.

Notable Quotes:

• Ayanna Contreras (34:57): "It's me pinning back, like, I can't remember this. You don't know what it mean to believe membership."
• Stephen Thompson (36:21): "It's a really cool record that feels like nothing that I've heard this year."

Lightning Round: Other Notable Releases

To encapsulate the wealth of music released on April 25th, the hosts highlighted additional albums that stood out for various reasons:

• Self Esteem – A Complicated War
  Rebecca Lucy Taylor, known as Self Esteem, delivers a grand and theatrical pop experience with combative and self-aware lyrics backed by orchestral arrangements.

• The Crown – Letici's 12th Album
  Letici, a master of the R&B genre, collaborates with Trombone Shorty on the title track, infusing New Orleans energy into her multifaceted sound.

• Beach Bunny – Tunnel Vision
  The Chicago-based power pop band returns with tight, emotionally intelligent rock tracks perfect for warmer weather, featuring short, impactful songs.

• Silas Short – Lush Land
  This LA-based artist offers an 80s and 90s-inspired R&B debut filled with soulful melodies and collaborations with notable producers like Peanut Butter Wolf.

• Broncho – Natural Pleasure
  The Oklahoma indie rock band Broncho makes a stylish return with an album characterized by sleek instrumentation and mysterious, engaging melodies.

Conclusion

Stephen Thompson and Ayanna Contreras conclude the episode by emphasizing the vibrant diversity of the music landscape on April 25th. They encourage listeners to support local record stores and continue exploring new and exciting sounds. With a blend of established artists and emerging talents, this week's releases offer something for every music enthusiast.

Notable Closing Quote:

• Stephen Thompson (41:13): "Until then, take a moment to be well, support your local record store, and treat yourself to lots of great music."

Credits:

• Produced by: Simon Rentner
• Edited by: Otis Hart
• Executive Producer: Soraya Muhammad
• NPR's Vice President of Music and Visuals: Keith Jenkins
• Upcoming Hosts: DJ Julie B from Marfa Public Radio, West Texas

Support and Advertising:
The episode features advertisements from sponsors like Dignity Memorial, Charles Schwab, Lagunitas Brewing Co., LinkedIn Ads, BetterHelp, Capital One, and Sony Pictures Classics. These segments are seamlessly integrated and do not detract from the main content.

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the April 25th episode of All Songs Considered, highlighting the key discussions, album analyses, and the dynamic interplay between the hosts. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to NPR Music's offerings, this episode provides a curated glimpse into some of the best new music available.