The hottest Albums Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Music Topics

THE USHER BOWL

The Nelson George Mixtape • 196 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🎶 Music Performance Albums Tour Dance
  1. Usher, as a true soul singer, stands out from current R&B singers who heavily use autotune and rap-singing.
  2. Usher's confidence and immense stage presence make his performances, like his Vegas residency show, epic and engaging for the audience.
  3. Usher's upcoming album release and arena tour mark a significant moment in his four-decade career, with expectations of him integrating past performance traditions like never before.

Songs for Drella

Austin Kleon • 1318 implied HN points • 04 Oct 22
🎶 Music Albums Artists History Reviews
  1. The album 'Songs for Drella' is a tribute to Andy Warhol, created by Lou Reed and John Cale, who were once estranged.
  2. The nickname 'Drella' combines 'Dracula' and 'Cinderella,' reflecting the complex nature of Warhol's personality.
  3. The songs on the album present Warhol's life from different perspectives, including his own and those of Reed and Cale.

Concert Review: Taylor Swift @ Nissan Stadium Nashville 5/5/2023

coldhealing • 393 implied HN points • 14 Jul 23
🎶 Music Albums
  1. Taylor Swift's Eras Tour is a highly immersive and communal spectacle that showcases her career through multiple eras.
  2. Taylor Swift's albums, from her early country music to her recent folk-pop releases, reflect her growth and emotional range as an artist.
  3. Taylor Swift's commitment to owning her music and engaging with her fans has solidified her position as one of the most cared about artists in the world.

Audio Archaeology, 1971: Barbra Streisand Sings the First Recorded Steely Dan Becker/Fagen Song

Front Row & Backstage • 393 implied HN points • 13 May 23
🎶 Music History Songwriting Producer Musicians Albums
  1. The songwriters of Steely Dan, Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, had an interesting origin story starting from Bard College.
  2. Kenny Vance played a crucial role in discovering and managing Becker and Fagen, leading to the formation of Steely Dan.
  3. The journey of the Steely Dan songwriting team from anonymous staff writers to successful recording artists is a testament to their talent and perseverance.

Musical interlude

Disaffected Newsletter • 579 implied HN points • 23 Jun 23
🎶 Music Artists Albums Genres Reviews Events
  1. Tom Petty's music carries themes of longing and boundaries, suggesting to others to stay away when needed.
  2. His lyrics often reflect a sense of personal struggle and discontent, which resonates with many listeners.
  3. Enjoying a musical interlude can provide a break and a moment of reflection in daily life.
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Audio Autopsy, 1991: "Perspex Island"-The Robyn Hitchcock Interview by Amy Hughes

Front Row & Backstage • 373 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23
🎶 Music Interview Albums Songs Artists Performance
  1. Robyn Hitchcock's music defies typical pop sensibilities with clever, eccentric, and thought-provoking lyrics.
  2. The interview gives insight into Robyn Hitchcock's songwriting process, choice of songs for albums, and collaboration with producers.
  3. Robyn Hitchcock reflects on his music career, changes in his style, and the impact of commercial success on his artistic expression.

Audio Autopsy, 1985: Prefab Sprout, Paddy McAloon: Steve McQueen UK/Two Wheels Good US Album + 2023 Acoustic Vinyl

Front Row & Backstage • 353 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
🎶 Music Albums Artists Genres Reviews Music Production
  1. The album 'Steve McQueen' by Prefab Sprout has an interesting history of different titles between the UK and the US.
  2. Prefab Sprout's music from the mid-'80s is considered sophisticated and beautiful, standing out from other popular music of that time.
  3. In 2023, an acoustic version of 'Steve McQueen' album was released in the US, bringing a new take on the classic songs.

Audio Autopsy 1975: Head East "Never Been Any Reason," A&M Records (+ Petra, John Schlitt)

Front Row & Backstage • 353 implied HN points • 17 Jul 23
🎶 Music History Bands Musicians Albums Genres
  1. Head East's hit song "Never Been Any Reason" caught the attention of A&M Records and lead to a re-release of their album.
  2. Lead singer John Schlitt's musical journey with Head East and Petra showcases a career transformation from rock band to Christian music.
  3. The song features unique Minimoog solos and vocal arrangements that contributed to its classic rock success.

Audio Autopsy, 1986: XTC "Season Cycle" from Skylarking LP, Produced by Todd Rundgren

Front Row & Backstage • 334 implied HN points • 10 May 23
🎶 Music Artists Albums Songs Influences Production
  1. XTC's song 'Season Cycle' from the 1986 Skylarking LP is deeply influenced by 1960s music and the Beach Boys.
  2. The album 'Skylarking' by XTC was a loose concept album produced by Todd Rundgren.
  3. The songwriting and recording process of XTC, especially during their Dukes of Stratosphear project, showcased a creative homage to 1960s music.

"The Letter" - The Box Tops and Joe Cocker

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 79 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
🎶 Music Music history Artists Albums Rock Soul
  1. The Box Tops had their big hit 'The Letter' when their lead singer, Alex Chilton, was just 17, showing that young talent can shine quickly in the music industry.
  2. Joe Cocker's version of 'The Letter' three years later highlighted his unique voice, even though he faced tough times with stress and financial troubles during his career.
  3. The Box Tops and Joe Cocker both represent lasting legacies in music, illustrating how artists can influence each other and continue to be celebrated over time.

November 3 2023

S/FJ • 255 implied HN points • 03 Nov 23
🎶 Music Reviews Albums Playlists Music Industry
  1. The author worked on a piece about Ryuichi Sakamoto and a review of Teju Cole's work
  2. The new Black To Comm album is described as a nightmare but cathartic
  3. Hive Mind Records issues music from artists outside the English-speaking sphere with a unique perspective

Musical interlude

Disaffected Newsletter • 459 implied HN points • 13 May 23
🎶 Music Artists Albums Lyrics Music history Music culture
  1. Some artists, like Suzanne Vega, are so great that people will buy their music without hearing it first. Her music is special and touches many hearts.
  2. Winning her album on the radio was a memorable moment, and it led to a personal connection when the artist replied to a thank-you letter.
  3. The lyrics of her songs often explore deep and thoughtful themes, connecting listeners to emotions that feel universal.

Taylor Swift for the Therapy Generation

The Reclamation Era • 59 implied HN points • 23 Apr 24
🎶 Music Artists Albums Lyrics Mental health Cultural impact
  1. Taylor Swift's music resonates deeply with many women, especially because it feels like therapy. Her songs help listeners process their emotions and experiences.
  2. Her different musical eras represent various parts of her life, encouraging fans to reflect on their own identities and emotions. This idea aligns with concepts from Internal Family Systems therapy.
  3. The release of her album and the ongoing discussions about self-acceptance have created a cultural moment where exploring one's feelings and personal history is celebrated and encouraged.

Notes on Radiohead

The Ruffian • 270 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🎶 Music Bands Podcasts Pop Albums
  1. Radiohead is known for their unique music style that is complex and emotionally resonant.
  2. Radiohead's focus on albums over hit singles sets them apart from other bands.
  3. Radiohead's success lies in their ability to maintain a vast audience while following their artistic instincts.

Musical interlude

Disaffected Newsletter • 339 implied HN points • 16 Jun 23
🎶 Music Genres Artists Albums History Reviews
  1. Music can evoke emotions and memories. Listening to a song might remind you of a special moment or feeling.
  2. Sharing music with others builds connections. When you share a song, it can create a shared experience that brings people closer.
  3. Art, like music, often reflects personal experiences. The stories behind songs can be just as compelling as the melodies themselves.

The New Cue #355 February 5: Gruff Rhys

The New Cue • 98 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🎶 Music Interview Albums Touring Songwriting
  1. Gruff Rhys released his eighth solo album, Sadness Sets Me Free, which is his thirty-fifth album overall.
  2. Gruff Rhys enjoys music and the process of creating records, valuing albums as a medium of expression.
  3. Gruff Rhys drew inspiration for his album from personal experiences, Cardiff's evolving landscape, and a mix of musical influences.

White Wine in the Sun

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 45 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🎶 Music Songs Performances Artists Albums Festivals
  1. The song 'White Wine in the Sun' by Tim Minchin is a seasonal favorite for many people. It's a catchy tune that brings joy during the holidays.
  2. There's a recommended version of the song performed on the James Corden show, featuring Bryan Cranston. It's worth checking out to get into the festive spirit.
  3. The message is one of warmth and happiness, wishing everyone a merry and bright holiday season. It's a nice reminder to celebrate with loved ones.

The End of Albums

Litverse • 99 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
🎶 Music Albums Songs Artists Streaming Creativity
  1. Listening habits have shifted, with fewer people now preferring to listen to full albums over playlists or individual songs.
  2. The creation of albums still holds value for artists, allowing them to craft a coherent and immersive experience for listeners through thematic storytelling and musical flow.
  3. Music consumption has evolved, with listeners seeking control and customization through playlists, but albums remain a unique way for artists to share their stories and emotions in a structured format.

The New Cue #356 February 9: The Jesus And Mary Chain, Jon McKiel, Borough Council, Brittany Howard, Burial, Declan McKenna, Bullion, Julien Chang

The New Cue • 39 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🎶 Music Indie Albums Rock Punk Recommendations
  1. The best electronic producers create a whole sonic world for listeners to dive into.
  2. Frank Turner recommended the album 'Sultans Of Sentiment' by The Van Pelt, describing it as unique and thought-provoking.
  3. You can access full editions and playlists by subscribing at The New Cue website.

Song Feature: Waverunner

Litverse • 119 implied HN points • 15 Dec 22
🎶 Music Bands Albums Consciousness Philosophy
  1. Job Creators is a math rock band formed by two long-time friends with a unique musical journey that evolved over the years.
  2. Their music explores themes like consciousness, love, and the human experience in the digital age through their albums like 'Systems Online' and 'Dream Harvest'.
  3. The single 'Waverunner' by Job Creators is a blend of upset optimism and features a sample from philosopher Alan Watts, capturing the essence of consciousness and living in the present moment.

Two Acclaimed Albums—Heard in a New Light

The Chase • 58 implied HN points • 21 Mar 23
🎶 Music Albums Recovery Artists Sobriety Lyrics
  1. Two acclaimed albums, Southeastern and Saint Cloud, by Alabama artists dive deep into sobriety themes.
  2. Both Jason Isbell and Waxahatchee openly share their journey to sobriety through their music.
  3. The albums reflect themes of transformation, moving forward, and personal growth rather than dwelling on victimhood and rock bottom experiences.

Avenged Sevenfold, P.O.D., Staind

Stream N' Destroy • 58 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
🎶 Music Charts Albums Music videos Sales
  1. The post discusses recent music video and album charts for Avenged Sevenfold, P.O.D., and Staind.
  2. There are updates on recent music industry signings, like Alex Vile with Paladin Artists and Bloom with Pure Noise Records.
  3. The post highlights the top Hard Rock and Metal music videos and albums in the US and UK, featuring various popular artists like Sleep Token, Linkin Park, and Staind.

In search of a soundtrack

The Author Is Dumb • 4 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🎶 Music Albums Listening Writing Collaboration
  1. Music helps to create a flow when writing, making it easier to focus and get into the right mindset.
  2. Certain songs can bring back memories of specific books or writing projects, linking music with personal experiences.
  3. The author is looking for help from readers to create a playlist for their new writing project, encouraging collaboration and fresh ideas.

PARAMORE By The Numbers

Stream N' Destroy • 39 implied HN points • 28 Feb 23
🎶 Music Streaming Social media Sales Albums
  1. Paramore has a huge online following with millions of listeners and social media followers.
  2. Their top songs like 'Misery Business' and 'Still Into You' have hundreds of millions of views and streams.
  3. Paramore has achieved multiple platinum and gold certifications for their albums and singles.

My Favorite Moments from The Eras Tour

The Reclamation Era • 39 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
🎶 Music Artists Albums Concerts Reviews Culture
  1. Taylor Swift's music can really resonate with personal transformations, making her songs feel like a soundtrack to life changes.
  2. The Eras Tour featured many of her popular albums, like Folklore and Midnights, which excited fans and created memorable experiences.
  3. Many people find joy and connection through live concerts, which can leave a lasting impact and be worth every penny spent.

Over and over, all born into great pain

The Golden Notebooks • 19 implied HN points • 26 Jul 23
🎶 Music Artists Songs Albums Abuse
  1. Sinead O'Connor was a sincere and real artist who faced backlash for speaking out against abuse and corruption in the Catholic Church.
  2. She created powerful music and openly addressed personal struggles, motherhood, and societal issues in her work.
  3. Her bravery in challenging authority and advocating for change left a lasting impact, inspiring others to stand up against injustice.

More Songwriting In Nowhere

The False Consensus Effect • 0 implied HN points • 12 Mar 21
🎶 Music Songwriting Lyrics Artists Albums
  1. Songwriting can be a valuable and rewarding practice that allows for creative expression and personal growth.
  2. Embrace the amateur mindset in creative endeavors, allowing room for experimentation and the freedom to fail without the pressure of perfection.
  3. Reflect on personal experiences and emotions as inspirations for songs, embracing simplicity and honesty in storytelling.