New Music Friday: Highlights from March 6, 2026

On March 6, 2026, NPR Music's "New Music Friday" podcast showcased a selection of notable album releases. Hosted by Stephen Thompson, the episode featured guest Nate Chinen, editorial director of WRTI in Philadelphia. The podcast aims to highlight essential new music, providing listeners with a curated experience of the week's best albums.

NPRThe Week’s Best Albums War Child Records, Shabaka, and more

Among the standout albums discussed were:

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• Flying Lotus, BIG MAMA EP (Brainfeeder): Recommended for fans of J Dilla and Madlib.

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• waterbaby, Memory Be A Blade (Sub Pop): Suggested for listeners who enjoy Arlo Parks and Charlotte Day Wilson.

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• Shabaka, Of the Earth (Shabaka Records): This album resonates with fans of Fabiano do Nascimento and Alice Coltrane.

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• Joshua Idehen, I Know You're Hurting, Everyone Is Hurting, Everyone Is Trying, You Have Got To Try (Heavenly): Appeals to those who appreciate Daphni and Sofia Kourtesis.

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• The Scythe, Strictly 4 the Scythe (Loma Vista): Targeted at fans of Denzel Curry and BKTHERULA.

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The podcast also featured a "Lightning Round," where NPR Music staff recommended five more albums that were not discussed in detail:

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• Cece Coakley, Pleasant Attack EP (Tone Tree)

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• Terrace Martin, Purpose (Sounds of Chrenshaw)

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• Various Artists, HELP(2) (War Child Records)

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• Alice Sara Ott, Jóhann Jóhannsson: Piano Works (Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin)

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• Macha & Bedhead, Macha Loved Bedhead - Bedhead Loved Macha (Numero Group)

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Dora Levite, the production assistant for "New Music Friday," shared her picks for albums that did not make the main podcast. These include:

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• Dutch Interior, It's Glass EP (Fat Possum)

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• OHYUNG, IOWA (DIY)

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• Tanya Tagaq, Saputjiji (Six Shooter)

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The episode reflects a diverse range of genres and styles, showcasing the evolving landscape of contemporary music. The inclusion of various artists and collaborations highlights the interconnectedness of the music community, particularly through projects like the HELP(2) album, which supports War Child, an NGO aiding children in conflict zones.

The Week’s Best Albums War Child Records, Shabaka, and more

NPR Music emphasizes its commitment to curating a wide array of musical talent, aiming to introduce listeners to both established and emerging artists. The podcast serves as a platform for promoting new music and fostering appreciation for diverse sounds.

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• “This week, our guest is Nate Chinen, editorial director of WRTI in Philadelphia.” — Stephen Thompson, Host, NPR Music

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• “ The whole thing was organized by James Ford, who has produced work by so many of the acts here, and also serves as a reminder of the incredible influence he has on today’s music.” — Shelly Ridenour, Qobuz

The Week’s Best Albums War Child Records, Shabaka, and more

This week's "New Music Friday" not only highlights new releases but also underscores the importance of music as a unifying force in times of global challenges.

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