Just Growing Old? Steely Dan’s ‘Countdown to Ecstasy’ at 50
Steely Dan’s Countdown to Ecstasy reveals a progression toward ever more sheen and polish on a smooth shell, the source of the “yacht rock” label that defined them.
jazz pop
That Stank Attitude: Steely Dan’s Final Albums Two Decades Later
The last album by the rock/jazz phenoms Steely Dan was released 20 years ago. This is a look back at why their last two records deserve reconsideration.
Memories of Basia’s ‘The Sweetest Illusion’ 29 Years Later
Basia’s The Sweetest Illusion speaks to my family’s migration from Poland to France, the US, and the UK. Like Basia, I’ve picked up various cultural ephemera along the way.
Office Culture Sparkle on the Grooving, Moody ‘Big Time Things’
Office Culture sing of love, sadness, and city life on Big Time Things, buoyed by a four-piece combination that locks in with a unique brand of art-pop.
‘Think Twice’ Is Savoir Faire’s Irresistible, Jazz-Infused Take on the Big Issues
Savoir Faire’s three-song EP Think Twice goes a long way in demonstrating her penchant for combining topical lyrics with deeply felt, retro-themed jazz and pop.
Rachel McElhiney’s ‘I Love It Here’ Belies the Heart Beneath It All
The first thing you’ll notice about Rachel McElhiney is that deceptively powerful voice, which is a beautiful vehicle for her jazz-flecked tunes.
Sierra Ferrell Plots Her Next Music Moves on Road to Destiny
West Virginia’s Sierra Ferrell has found a temporary home in Nashville as an artist who makes old-timey country sound new, but she isn’t ready to stop there.
Norah Jones Plays It Cool, Classic, and Timeless with ‘I Dream of Christmas’
Norah Jones’ I Dream of Christmas feels like a soothing salve on what seems like another troubled holiday season. It’s a wonderful soundtrack for the festivities.
Jordan Rakei’s Thrilling ‘What We Call Life’ Is Destined to Be a Classic
Jordan Rakei has a gorgeous voice that’s soulful and thrilling, and his latest album What We Call Life is easily one of the best of the year.
Sierra Ferrell’s Assured Debut Looks to Mid-20th Century Music for Inspiration
Sierra Ferrell’s debut album, Long Time Coming, encompasses a wide array of mid-20th-century styles. However, she leans towards classic country and roots music.