From the Renaissance Queen’s highly-anticipated new album to the sweet, dulcet tones of Maggie Rogers, and a raft of intriguing podcasts that delve into the nuances of history and popular culture, this is everything worth listening to this autumn.
New Albums
Cowboy Carter
Beyoncé
The queen of reinvention, Beyoncé has released the highly-anticipated follow up to her much acclaimed album, Renaissance. And while that album may have been the singer’s ode to electro-house, this album is an ode to country music, with the superstar performer making a return to her Texan roots.
The new release marks Bey’s eighth studio record; the country-tinged contents ushering in for a whole new era of Queen Bey.
Song to start with:
Texas Hold ‘Em
All Quiet on the Western Esplanade
The Libertines
This new album captures the raw essence of the iconic band’s live performances.
Recorded at the renowned Margate Winter Gardens, the album embodies The Libertines’ chaotic energy, rebellious spirit, and anthemic sound in a spirited celebration of indie rock brilliance.
Song to start with:
Can’t Stand Me Now
Blue Electric Light
Lenny Kravitz
Inviting listeners on a soulful and electrifying sonic journey, Kravitz’s blistering new electro-funk collection showcases the full extent of the star’s musical prowess.
Fusing rock, funk, and soul, Blue Electric Light blends the old and new in a timeless album that further solidifies Kravitz as an enduring musical sensation.
Song to start with:
Ride
Don’t Forget Me
Maggie Rogers
Showcasing her distinctive sound and heartfelt songwriting, Maggie Rogers’ anticipated new album, co-produced with Ian Fitchuk, was crafted over five intense days at New York’s Electric Lady Studios.
With eight tracks and two solo compositions, the album is a testament to Rogers’ creative evolution, and is set to be one of the most exciting releases of the year.
Song to start with:
Don’t Forget Me
New Podcasts
Virginia Woolf Podcast
Through insightful discussions and analysis, this captivating podcast delves into Woolf’s literary legacy, offering profound insights into modernist literature, feminism, and the human condition. Hosted by passionate scholars and enthusiasts, through Woolf’s novels, essays, and letters, her enduring impact on literature and culture is illuminated.
Sentimental Garbage
Caroline O’Donoghue offers a fresh perspective on culture often overlooked, inviting listeners to re-evaluate the value of sentimental storytelling in contemporary culture. With her signature, sparkly humour, O’Donoghue interviews writers, critics, fans and friends — each episode a tender exploration of a theme, movie, series, album or public figure.
Empire
In each instalment, this history podcast dissects a distinct empire, chronicling its ascent, demise, and enduring legacy. From the rise of Greece to The Russian Revolution to the golden age of Catherine The Great, each week sees an enticing exploration of the stories, personalities and events of empire over the course of history.
Switched On Pop
Musicologist Nate Sloan & songwriter Charlie Harding explore the making and meaning of popular music, pulling back the curtain on how pop hits work magic on our ears and our culture. It treats the songs, artists and trends most would think of as flotsam with high-minded enthusiasm, and its simple, considered approach appeals to all.
