All Songs Considered: New Music Friday - The Best Albums Out May 30, 2025

Host: Stephen Thompson
Guest: Jackson Wisdorf from KXT, North Texas
Release Date: May 30, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of All Songs Considered, Stephen Thompson and his guest, Jackson Wisdorf from KXT in North Texas, delve into the standout albums released on May 30, 2025. The discussion centers around themes of introspection, grief, hope, and the blending of diverse musical styles. The hosts provide in-depth analysis of each featured album, highlighting collaborations, lyrical depth, and production nuances.

1. Matt Berninger – Get Sunk, Put the Powder

Overview: Matt Berninger, best known as the frontman of The National, releases his second solo album, Get Sunk, Put the Powder. This record marks a period of introspection following his move from Los Angeles to Connecticut with his family, resulting in some of his most emotionally resonant work to date.

Key Points:

• Themes of Reflection: The album grapples with personal hardships and acceptance, imbued with an undercurrent of hope.
• Collaborations: Produced by Sean O'Brien, featuring contributions from Meg Duffy (Hand Habits), members of The Walkmen, and Kyle Resnick from The National. Notably, Booker T. Jones adds depth with his organ swell in the final track.
• Notable Tracks:
  • Bonnet of Pins: Begins with a somber tone before building into a more dynamic and hopeful sound.
    • Quote: "Bonnet of Pins starts out seemingly wallowing in that sad dad kind of gloomy guy mode, but then it builds into something with more kind of flow. Fire in its belly." [03:39]
  • Breaking Into Acting: Features a tender collaboration with Meg Duffy, embodying the message of persevering through life's challenges.
    • Quote: "There's a really tender sound to it... telling this message about getting through life, essentially by faking it till you make it." [05:41]

Insights: Jackson Wisdorf remarks on the common critique of The National as "sick, sad dad music," but observes that Berninger approaches these themes with an air of acceptance and grandeur, transforming personal sorrow into a relatable and uplifting narrative.

2. Yule – Evangelical

Overview: Yule, the pseudonym of Singapore-born Nachmiel, releases their fourth album, Evangelical. Drawing heavy inspiration from video games and internet culture, this record fuses hyper-pop, classical elements, emo, and ’90s alternative rock.

Key Points:

• Musical Diversity: The album is a whirlwind of genres, creating "epic soundscapes" that oscillate between fear and hope.
• Production Choices: Collaboration with producers like AG Cook, with a deliberate move away from AI to preserve the album's human and emotional quality.
• Notable Tracks:
  • Doomsday: Exhibits a mix of dystopian vibes with moments of emotional relief.
    • Quote: "With you I see / Watch the sun to you / Just like a car / Takes away a man from the darks." [10:19]
  • Kissed That Summer: Highlights the calming and hopeful aspects amidst chaotic themes.
    • Quote: "There’s no ordinary way to make it through the fade / Kiss that summer let's get caught / Feel some courage to step into where the dark is not an ending but a start." [37:50]

Insights: Jackson appreciates how Yule integrates "ragged, jagged edges" to maintain a human touch in their music, allowing listeners to navigate through the complex emotions presented. The album's production enhances its thematic depth, making each track a unique journey.

3. Ben Queller – Cover the Mirrors

Overview: Ben Queller releases Cover the Mirrors, a poignant album processing the tragic loss of his 16-year-old son, Dorian, in 2023. The album features collaborations with notable artists such as Katie Crutchfield from Waxahatchee, the Flaming Lips, and MJ Lenderman.

Key Points:

• Themes of Grief and Healing: The album serves as a musical exploration of loss, community support, and finding hope amidst sorrow.
• Collaborative Depth: The track Killer B, featuring the Flaming Lips, connects Queller with Nell Smith’s grieving parents, showcasing a shared journey through loss.
  • Quote: "Killer B killing me / Toss me like a cast away to hide what I..." [20:48]
• Notable Tracks:
  • Oh, Dorian: Featuring MJ Lenderman, it reflects on cherished memories with his son.
    • Quote: "Dorian, my best friend. I can't wait to hang out in the blue..." [23:23]
  • Letter to Agony: A heartfelt love letter to his wife, Liz, intertwining themes of enduring love and persistent grief.
    • Quote: "All of your sweet talk and fine lines that you walk / Are making me mad at you and I wanna be mean to you..." [24:00]

Insights: Stephen emphasizes the grace and beauty in Queller’s ability to channel personal tragedy into a shared tapestry of community and healing through music. Jackson highlights the Texas music scene's supportive nature, reinforcing how Queller’s work resonates deeply with listeners.

4. Alan Sparhawk – With Trampled By Turtles

Overview: Alan Sparhawk, known for his work with Low, collaborates with the folk-punk band Trampled By Turtles on his solo album With Trampled By Turtles. This partnership melds Sparhawk’s minimalist, reflective style with the high-energy, bluegrass-influenced sound of Trampled By Turtles.

Key Points:

• Musical Fusion: The album strikes a balance between Low's spare, melancholic tones and Trampled By Turtles' vibrant, fast-paced rhythms.
• Emotional Undertones: Following the passing of Sparhawk’s wife, Mimi Parker, the album serves as a healing journey, with his daughter Hollis contributing vocals on the track Not Broken.
  • Quote: "I'm not angry. It's not broken." [28:43]
• Notable Tracks:
  • Not Broken: Features Hollis Sparhawk, symbolizing the continuation of Low’s legacy.
    • Quote: "I'm not angry. It's not broken. I'm not angry." [28:43]
  • Heaven: Reflects on solitude and the desire to be with loved ones.
    • Quote: "Heaven, it's a lonely place if you're alone / I wanna be there with the people that I love." [28:34]

Insights: Stephen and Jackson discuss how the collaboration provides a warm bed of sound, allowing Sparhawk to express his emotions while honoring his late wife’s memory. The inclusion of his daughter adds a transcendent and personal layer to the album, making it a touching tribute.

5. Amy Milan – I Went to Find

Overview: Amy Milan, renowned for her role in Stars and Broken Social Scene, returns with her first solo album in over 15 years, titled I Went to Find. The album is a rich tapestry of layered textures and introspective lyrics, reflecting her long-standing experience in the music industry.

Key Points:

• Emotional Depth: The album explores themes of aging, memory, and the enduring impact of time on personal relationships.
• Production and Collaboration: Worked with Jay McCarroll, whose duet reignites her passion and connects her music to her early experiences.
• Notable Tracks:
  • Wire Walks: A reflection on the misconception that time heals all wounds.
    • Quote: "I lied when I said that time would catch your head. I thought about when I was younger, time would mend all wounds, but I was wrong." [35:06]
  • Kissed That Summer: Emphasizes courage and embracing new beginnings.
    • Quote: "Feel some courage to step into where the dark is not an ending but a start." [37:50]

Insights: Jackson praises the layered textures and soundscapes that Amy creates, highlighting how her music serves as a balm for both herself and her listeners. The album’s exploration of acceptance and embracing life's challenges resonates deeply, aligning with the overarching themes of the episode.

Lightning Round: Additional Noteworthy Albums

1. Obongjayar – Paradise Now

   • Artist Background: London-based Steven Umo blends Afrobeat, soul, reggae, and pop.
   • Highlight: Charismatic energy and genre-defying sounds.
   • Recommendation: Must-watch Tiny Desk Concert.

2. Lion Milk – Debut on Stones Throw Records

   • Artist Background: Moki Kawaguchi delivers a DIY aesthetic with jazzy, cathartic soundscapes.
   • Highlight: Multi-instrumental prowess and emotionally resonant melodies.
   • Recommendation: Comparable to the likes of MF Doom and Madlib.

3. Caroline – Caroline 2

   • Artist Background: English band known for communal spirit and improvisational style.
   • Highlight: Blend of folk, rock, and emo with grand emotional statements.
   • Recommendation: Enjoy their vibrant Tiny Desk concert.

4. Civic Chrome – Dipped Love

   • Artist Background: Australian band revitalizing post and proto-punk with contemporary sounds.
   • Highlight: Energetic tracks reminiscent of early Buzzcocks and the Vibrators.
   • Recommendation: Notable tracks like "Way a Great Track."

5. Kassim Naqvi – Endling

   • Artist Background: Known as the drummer for Dawn of Midi, now an inventive solo composer.
   • Highlight: Haunting, futuristic instrumentals exploring the end of humanity.
   • Recommendation: A blend of darkness and beauty through instrumental storytelling.

Favorite Tracks Highlight

• Jackson's Pick: Not Broken by Alan Sparhawk featuring Trampled By Turtles. The heartfelt inclusion of Hollis Sparhawk provides a deeply moving experience, symbolizing healing and legacy.

  • Quote: "It's somebody who is related to Mimi Parker, that was a really transcendent experience." [43:57]

• Stephen's Pick: Not Broken by Alan Sparhawk. The realization of Hollis’s voice connecting to Mimi Parker adds profound emotional depth.

  • Quote: "I'm not angry. It's not broken." [28:43]

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a reflection on the powerful emotional journeys these albums offer. From Matt Berninger’s introspective musings to the collaborative healing in Alan Sparhawk’s work, and Amy Milan’s layered textures, each album provides a unique avenue for processing and embracing life's complexities through music.

Final Thoughts:

• Stephen Thompson: "I could nerd out with you for hours and I suspect I will."
• Jackson Wisdorf: "Just talking about music. No better way to spend a Friday."

Listeners are encouraged to explore these albums to experience the rich emotional landscapes and musical innovations discussed.

Produced by: Simon Rentner
Edited by: Otis Hart
Executive Producer: Soraya Muhammad
NPR Music Vice President: Keith Jenkins

Until next week, enjoy your musical explorations and take a moment to reflect and find solace in the power of music.