Chronicling Stankonia is an engaging read, one that adroitly balances rigorous academic research with a deeply personal narrative about Black life and art in the post-Civil Rights Era in the South.
Popular Music
Rap Review: M.I.A. — Her “AIM” Is Still True
The Sri Lankan rapper’s outspoken support for refugees — the focus of her 2016 album — remains relevant as the United States and the rest of the world continue to grapple with immigration reform.
Music Appreciation: Exit Daft Punk
Few bands have shown themselves to be as infectious about their art — and for so long.
Book Review: Nashville Songwriter Aimee Mayo is “Talking to the Sky”
Nashville songwriter Aimee Mayo’s memoir offers an eye-opening perspective on the problematic treatment of women in the country music industry.
Folk/Pop Album Review: “The Burnt Pines” — Seamless Cross-Cultural Chemistry
This surprisingly seamless record belies its logistical shuffles and players’ cultural differences with a relaxed sonic identity.
Music Review/Interview: Foxes & Fossils — 50 Million YouTube Views Can’t Be Wrong
Even though they are a cover band, Foxes and Fossils’ performances are fresh and delightful. While faithful to the originals, they are not slavish imitations.
Music Remembrance: MF DOOM — The Artist as Supervillain
The sonic thumbprint of MF DOOM will live eternally in the forensics of hip-hop DNA and underground culture as a whole.
Country Music CD Review: “We Shall All Be Reunited: The Bristol Sessions, 1927 & 1928” — Revising Musical History
Producer Ted Olson is on a mission in We Shall Be Reunited to do justice to the past; he imagines a beautiful alternative to the current ballyhooed origin story of country music.
Music Feature: Five of 2020’s Best Boston Reggae Recordings
Lots of artists made recordings during their lockdowns that have been released as vinyl, streams, videos and, in the case of the Attractors and Flying Vipers, even cassette tapes.
Blues Album Review: Robert Connely Farr’s “Country Supper” — Feed a Hunger for That Lonesome Delta Sound
Country Supper is a beautifully produced album, a cohesive musical and artistic statement that will appeal to serious fans of the blues, country, and indie rock.