Editors' Choice for February 2021

Album cover for New Music and Big Pop

New Music and Big Pop

Run for Cover Records

An affectionate, searching full-length debut from a Philadelphia trio whose ethereal indie folk-rock never loses its warm composure.

— Marcy Donelson

Album cover for Shawn-Neeq

Shawn-Neeq

Real Gone Music

Issued by the venerable Black Jazz at the dawn of the 1970s, the guitarist's leader debut is an enduring classic of the jazz-funk era.

— Thom Jurek

Album cover for Not Your Muse

Not Your Muse

Polydor
R&B

Fine LP of vintage-current R&B from a subtly distinct artist who has been on the rise for over half-a-decade.

— Andy Kellman

Album cover for First Generation 1965-1974

First Generation 1965-1974

Madfish / Snapper

A massive 35-disc box set presents its subject as one of the most innovative, influential, and prolific blues musicians to emerge from the 20th century.

— Thom Jurek

Album cover for In Quiet Moments

In Quiet Moments

Bella Union

Themes of death and rebirth inspire an even more poignant second album by the improvisational indie rock project of Bella Union chief Simon Raymonde.

— Marcy Donelson

Album cover for As the Love Continues

As the Love Continues

Temporary Residence

The venerable Scottish post-rockers celebrate their 25th anniversary with some of their most fun and immediate music.

— Heather Phares

Album cover for AAI

AAI

Thrill Jockey

The tirelessly creative duo synthesize the soul of artificial intelligence, challenging conventions of authenticity and emotion in the process.

— Heather Phares

Album cover for Pacific Kiss

Pacific Kiss

Tough Love

The David West-led band display mastery over the intertwined forms of dynamic indie rock and jangling indie pop on their fourth album.

— Tim Sendra

Album cover for Spring Rain

Spring Rain

Real Gone Music

The former Jimmy McGriff saxophonist's earthy 1972 debut album showcases his funky, modal style.

— Matt Collar

Album cover for Tyron

Tyron

Method Records
Rap

The follow-up to the acclaimed U.K. rapper's Top Ten-charting debut focuses on his own complex personality.

— Paul Simpson

Album cover for Ignorance

Ignorance

Fat Possum Records

Tamara Lindeman's brilliant fifth album examines environmental and emotional crises with dazzling yet heartfelt words and music.

— Heather Phares