All Songs Considered: New Music Friday – The Best Albums Out Aug. 8

Release Date: August 8, 2025

In this episode of NPR’s flagship music discovery program, "All Songs Considered," host Stephen Thompson teams up with DeShawn Nance from WJSU's The SIP in Jackson, Mississippi, to delve into the latest releases for August 8th. The duo explores a diverse array of new albums spanning genres from hip-hop and alternative R&B to country and indie pop. Below is a detailed summary capturing the key discussions, insights, and standout moments from the episode.

Featured Album Reviews

1. JID – God Does Like Ugly

JID, the East Atlanta rapper known for his charismatic performances and intricate lyricism, kicks off the episode with his fifth studio album, God Does Like Ugly. Thompson praises JID’s extensive collaborations, noting, “If you just look at the list of features on this record... Don Toliver, Tiny Dolla Sign. Just the list goes on and on” (01:03).

DeShawn highlights JID’s ability to bridge different musical tastes: “He makes me like people that I wouldn't like listen to of my own free will” (01:48). The conversation underscores the dense, reference-packed bars and the seamless integration of various guest artists without overshadowing JID’s distinctive sound. Notable tracks like "G's the I" and the lengthy "Waco Texas" exemplify his skill in weaving pop culture references and maintaining lyrical depth (03:07).

2. Ethel Cain – Radio. Willoughby Tucker, I'll Always Love You

Ethel Cain’s expansive and experimental nature is the focus next, with her latest release, Radio. Willoughby Tucker, I'll Always Love You. Thompson describes it as “a deeply fraught first love” project that exceeds 73 minutes with 10 tracks (05:38). DeShawn compares the album’s emotional weight to “the end of a rom-com that didn't end too great” (07:26), emphasizing its melancholic and dramatic tones.

Tracks like "Dust Bowl" and "Waco Texas" are highlighted for their evolving soundscapes and emotional resonance, requiring listeners to invest patience to fully appreciate their depth (09:59). The album’s ability to intertwine grand, cinematic narratives with personal angst solidifies its standing as a compelling listen (10:13).

3. Amarae – Black Star

Amarae’s Black Star is characterized by its Afro-pop and indie influences, merging TikTok-friendly rhythms with R&B and Afrobeat elements. Thompson remarks on the album’s contemporary edge, noting its suitability for platforms like TikTok: “This record feels made for TikTok” (17:30).

DeShawn paints a vivid picture of the album’s atmosphere: “a weird, futuristic, a little bit dystopian nightclub” (19:18). The discussion highlights tracks like "Kiss Me through the Phone" and "She Is My Drug," which blend nostalgic 80s pop influences with modern production, creating a sound that's both forward-thinking and nostalgically familiar (19:43).

4. Charlie Crockett – Dollar a Day

Charlie Crockett’s Dollar a Day stands out with its old-school and new-school country fusion. Thompson likens Crockett’s prolific output to vintage country legends, appreciating his ability to maintain quality across multiple releases (22:35). DeShawn praises tracks like “Crucified Son” for their dynamic contrast and relatability: “When I hear country music, I'm listening for that relatability in subject matter” (24:31).

The album features a blend of throwback sounds with contemporary themes, as seen in “Tennessee Quick Cash” and “Santa Fe Rings,” which update classic country motifs to address modern issues like payday lending and personal struggles (24:31). Crockett’s authentic storytelling and evolving sound make Dollar a Day a noteworthy addition to the country genre (26:14).

5. Gordy – Like Plasticine

Gordy’s Like Plasticine is lauded for its haunting beauty and catchy melodies. Thompson admires Gordy’s ability to infuse personal experiences into her music, particularly in tracks like "PVC Divide," which reflects on her time as a doctor during the COVID-19 pandemic (29:46).

DeShawn expresses excitement over discovering Gordy’s work: “This project is one of those things that if you can't relate from a personal place, she will allow you to relate from her perspective” (31:09). The album’s diverse sonic landscapes, from the eerie "Alien Cowboy" to the infectious "Cutting Room Floor," showcase Gordy’s versatility and emotional depth (32:16).

Lightning Round: Other Notable Releases

• Hayes Carl – We’re Only Human: A roots rock album reminiscent of Lyle Lovett and Randy Newman, featuring witty and socially conscious lyrics.

• Big Freeda – Pressing Onward: Combining heavy gospel influences with contemporary beats, this project demands love and appreciation for its spirited delivery.

• Ashley Monroe – Tennessee Lightning: Written after her battle with cancer, this 17-track album serves as a victory lap with contributions from artists like T Bone Burnett.

• Bryson Tiller – The Vices: An evolution from his previous work, leaning more into hip-hop while maintaining his R&B core.

• Ada Lee – When I Paint My Masterpiece: A Canadian singer-songwriter’s third album, blending folk legacy with forward-thinking compositions.

Favorite Tracks

At the episode’s conclusion, both hosts share their favorite tracks from the week’s releases:

• DeShawn Nance selects Big Freeda's "Never Forget," describing it as embodying a “gospel-inspired bounce” (38:27).

• Stephen Thompson chooses Gordy’s "Cutting Room Floor," appreciating its “mile-wide summer jam” and Gordy’s soaring vocals (39:12).

Closing Thoughts

Stephen and DeShawn wrap up the episode by acknowledging the breadth of new music and the exciting directions artists are taking. They encourage listeners to explore these releases, highlighting the importance of diverse collaborations and the evolution of genre boundaries.

Notable Quotes:

• “He makes me like people that I wouldn't like listen to of my own free will.” – DeShawn Nance on JID’s collaborative approach (01:48).

• “It feels like the end of a rom-com that didn't end too great.” – DeShawn Nance describing Ethel Cain’s album (07:26).

• “This is a record that takes its time. There is a track on this record called Willoughby's Interlude... it's seven and a half minutes long.” – Stephen Thompson on Ethel Cain’s expansive sound (08:33).

• “When I look at JID, I really think of your favorite rapper's favorite rapper.” – Stephen Thompson highlighting JID’s influence (01:03).

• “If you can't relate from a personal place, she will allow you to relate from her perspective.” – DeShawn Nance on Gordy’s Like Plasticine (31:09).

For those who missed the episode or wish to revisit their favorite moments, NPR Music’s "All Songs Considered" offers a comprehensive exploration of the latest in music, celebrating both established artists and emerging talents.