Looking for new music? Look no further than your local Queens Library!
Every month, our expert staff will bring you the best of what's new in our physical and digital collections—and this month is a larger-than-usual end-of-the-year special!
Check out our music recommendations for December 2017!
SZA, Ctrl
SZA is a singer-songwriter who’s written songs for superstars like Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Nicki Minaj. Now it’s her turn to shine with her first full-length CD, which has earned her five Grammy nominations and been named the best album of 2017 by TIME Magazine. Ctrl is full of slow jams and a pop stand-out or two that use synths, samples, and rock guitars to create a layered effect perfect for a house party or just listening on your phone while riding the subway. Download your favorite tracks from the album, explicit or clean, on Freegal.
Beck, Colors
Four years in the making, Beck’s 13th studio album Colors has finally arrived. For fans that have been waiting for the artist to release a pop album you can dance to, your time has come. In only 10 tracks, Beck delivers a collage of upbeat musical styles such as disco, funk, power pop, and Beatles-style psychedelia. His word games are upfront as always and the production shines like a rainbow. You almost have to wonder if Beck is having a mid-life crisis or second adolescence, as he is practically giddy in comparison to his last few “mellow” albums. Though it comes too late to be a summer album, perhaps it will brighten up the dark days of winter. Watch the video for the song “Up All Night."
Shania Twain, Now
Has it really been 15 years since Shania Twain released a new CD? Sure enough, Up! was her last one, in 2002. Since then, she’s had marital problems, Lyme disease, dysphonia, and enough other troubles to fill five albums of country songs. Despite her long absence, Now still managed to hit number one on the Billboard Top 200 upon its release. This helped Shania maintain her status as the best-selling female country singer of all time. Though her voice shows some effects from her various maladies, her new songs make use of it. Watch the video for the lead single “Life’s About to Get Good."
Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Heart.Passion.Pursuit
Gospel Grammy winner Tasha Cobbs Leonard is back with her fourth CD, Heart.Passion. Pursuit. This singer-songwriter from Atlanta is the real deal in urban gospel. Tasha has her own ministry and is often asked to be a guest pastor in churches, where her sermons are as appreciated as her singing. In 2015, she won the Gospel Artist of the Year award at the GMA Dove Awards. For her new record, she brought together a group of musicians and singers from over 25 cultures around the world. The result is an exuberant, joyful sound. Listen to the track “I’m Getting Ready” featuring Nicki Minaj.
Wyclef Jean, Carnival III: The Fall and Rise of a Refugee
It was only a few months ago that rapper, writer, actor, and activist Wyclef Jean released the EP J'ouvert in anticipation of his new full-length album Carnival III: The Fall and Rise of a Refugee. As the title suggests, it is the last of a trilogy of Carnival albums released over the past twenty years. Wyclef waited to record and release it due to his philanthropic ventures and political aspirations in Haiti. Like its predecessors, the new album celebrates global diversity, artistry, and a bit of activism. From '70s funk to modern trap, the tracks set the stage for a party. Stream it now on Freegal.
LCD Soundsystem, American Dream
Brooklyn’s own LCD Soundsystem is back from retirement to wake you up and get you moving. Founder James Murphy got the band back together after the one-off recording of a 2015 Christmas single turned out better, and less stressful, than expected. Their 2011 “farewell” concert sold out Madison Square Garden, and Rolling Stone added the band to their list of “New Immortals.” Now that they’re back, don’t let them slip by you again! Stream the new album on Freegal.
Gogol Bordello, Seekers and Finders
From the Lower East Side of Manhattan, Gogol Bordello has been a local favorite for years. Their unique style of “Gypsy punk” incorporates accordion and violin with rock in a raucous style that gets audiences moving. Their stage show has led to their appearance in numerous films, and even Coca-Cola got them to record a jingle. Seekers and Finders is their seventh album, but only the first produced by lead singer Eugene Hütz. Though nothing can quite compare to their live show, the new album is a good showcase for their wild and crazy sound. Hear it on Freegal.
Grizzly Bear, Painted Ruins
New York indie rockers Grizzly Bear are back with their fifth studio LP, Painted Ruins. The album continues the band’s exploration of experimental, psychedelic folk music but lacks the anxiety or tension that has been evident in their previous recordings. This time, the groove seems more organic and less forced, and the songs benefit from it. You’ll need to listen a few times to let the soundscape fully unfold, since the intricacies are almost daunting. Luckily, the album is on Freegal, so you can stream it often.
The Killers, Wonderful Wonderful
The Killers have had a tough time with being labeled. They been called many things, from "post-punk" to "heartland rock," but no matter what you call them, they’re the biggest band ever from Nevada! Wonderful Wonderful is their fifth studio album and it’s been a few years in the making. It was worth the wait, as it became their first number one record on the Billboard Hot 200. Though some critics considered the new material to be bombastic and grandiose, most felt it's the Killers' best work so far. They seem to be drawing a lot of comparisons to U2, so I guess we can now add another label, "stadium rock." Check out the video for the song “Run for Cover."
Tricky, Ununiform
Tricky is a British singer and musician who got his start as a collaborator with the group Massive Attack. He is a founder of the trip-hop style that combines hip hop, goth rock, and ragga for a darkly psychedelic sound. His 13th album is the result of a recent trip to Moscow and includes Russian rapper Smoky Mo as well as a host of other international contributors. To add some American cred, Jay-Z is on board as co-engineer. The result is seductively slinky, chill-out music that might creep you out. Watch the video (filmed in NYC) for “When We Die."
Willie Nelson, God’s Problem Child
Released the day before his 84th birthday, God’s Problem Child is Willie Nelson's 72nd studio album and his 50th Top Ten Country album. This is no swan song, though, as the song “Still Not Dead” makes clear. The new CD is actually his best reviewed in years, with the critics calling it vital, alive, and honest. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, you’re bound to get caught up in Willie’s understated style and noteworthy lyrics. The album also features some of the last recorded work of Leon Russell. You can stream the entire CD on Freegal.
Queens of the Stone Age, Villains
Formed in California in 1996, Queens of the Stone Age have become critical and commercial darlings of the hard rock set. Founded by Josh Homme (formerly of Kyuss), the band has always exhibited a good sense of humor alongside the heavy riffs. They're now on their seventh album, Villains, and they’ve added some new musical elements to bring them into glam/boogie territory while dispensing with the guest vocalists that have routinely appeared on their recordings. While you have to give them credit for trying to be innovative, longtime fans might not be pleased with the change of direction, slight as it is. Form your own opinion while watching the video for “The Way You Used to Do."
Van Morrison, Roll with the Punches
Van Morrison is still going strong on his 37th studio album. It's a collection of blues songs, a genre he has always dabbled with but has never devoted an album to before now. So, can a 72-year-old Irish celebrity sing the blues? Even though he hasn’t lived the life of a bluesman, Morrison creates his own character that has. The result is not a knock-out punch, but a series of killer jabs that can leave you reeling, with a few soft blows to give you a chance to breathe before the next round. Watch the man in action on the song “Transformation."
Darius Rucker, When Was the Last Time
If you still associate Darius Rucker with his rock/pop band Hootie & the Blowfish, you need to get caught up. When Was the Last Time is his fifth album of country music and his seventh solo release. Darius has the sort of voice that can fit any song, so we have to assume that country is his true passion. Though the lyrics of his songs don’t go much beyond the usual themes, his ability to sell a song make us forget that we’ve heard plenty of songs about trucks, beer, and dancehalls before. Watch him perfom “For the First Time."
Machine Gun Kelly, Bloom
While Cleveland may claim him, MGK, also known as Machine Gun Kelly, was born Richard Baker in Texas, but his parents were missionaries who moved frequently. As a result, MGK got to see the world and experience many cultures. These experiences flavor his rapping and acting in a way that makes him unique. His mixtapes and rap battles are legendary, and he quickly signed a record deal with Bad Boy Records. He’s been releasing EPs, mixtapes, and albums ever since, never quite hitting the top of the charts but always ending up in the Top 10. His third full-length album shows him in fine swagger, claiming that he’s the David Bowie of his generation—let’s see if that pans out. Listen to the clean version of “Kiss the Sky."
Sam Smith, The Thrill of It All
British singer Sam Smith returns with his second album of soon-to-be hits. His first album, In the Lonely Hour, has sold 12 million copies and made him an international superstar. Smith’s unique androgynous style and sad songs seem to hit the same fan base as Adele, but his songs are quieter, relying mostly on just piano and some strings. Smith calls his style “dance and cry,” but there seems to be more crying than dancing. The Thrill of It All is also part of a growing trend where songwriters avoid gender-specific pronouns in order to be more inclusive. Have a tissue ready as you watch the video for “Too Good at Goodbyes."
Leon Russell, On a Distant Shore
Legendary keyboard player and songwriter Leon Russell had one last album in the can before he passed away last year. Like so many artists who have left behind work to be released posthumously, Leon didn’t hold back. The songs are a throwback to the time of Tin Pan Alley and the Great American Songbook. They are modern classics that should keep finding new audiences and grateful performers as the century rolls on. Even though his voice is rough, the words and music are smooth enough to convey the romance and thrill of a life well lived. It may not be the sort of boogie and blues that made him famous, but it is the legacy he wanted to leave. Listen to it on Freegal.
Pink, Beautiful Trauma
If you’ve been seeing a lot of Pink recently, it’s because she’s on a heavy promotional tour for her new album Beautiful Trauma. It's been five years and several hairstyles since her last release, so the push is on to get the message out. Thankfully, it lives up to the hype, being both familiar and fresh enough to please fans old and new. Don’t look for any deep meanings, though—this is a pop record, pure and simple. In a time of political upheaval and general unrest, maybe it is just the tonic we need to escape the headlines for a while. Give it a spin on Freegal.
Nine Inch Nails, Add Violence
Trent Reznor’s industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails have had a rollercoaster career that seemed to peak in the 1990s, but they keep defying the odds, staying popular and relevant. (Perhaps goth will really never die.) When not active as part of Nine Inch Nails, Reznor has been doing scores for movies and TV, most recently Ken Burns' documentary series The Vietnam War. Now that he is back to band work, he is foregoing a new album in favor of a trilogy of EPs. Add Violence is the second in that series and continues the evolution of NIN from screaming, hard songs to slightly softer, smoother music and vocals. The lyrics are still very dark, though, so don’t think for a second that Trent is any less twisted. Hear for yourself while you watch the video for “Less Than."
Chris Brown, Heartbreak on a Full Moon
R&B singer and songwriter Chris Brown has certainly been busy. His new double album, Heartbreak on a Full Moon, contains no less than 50 new tracks (and up to 54 on special editions) written and recorded by Brown over the past two years. In an age of singles where full albums are nearly passé, this can be seen as madness or a lesson in “return on investment” economics. Also counter to trends, Brown uses only a few guest vocalists. The one “star power” song “Party” features Gucci Mane and Usher, but the majority of other tracks are all Chris Brown. That may be too much for today’s short attention spans, but you can stream as much or as little as you like of the album (clean or explicit) from Freegal.
Looking for new music? Look no further than your local Queens Library!
Every month, our expert staff will bring you the best of what's new in our physical and digital collections.
Check out our music recommendations for September 2017!
Imagine Dragons, Evolve
Originally from Las Vegas, Imagine Dragons have been making music together since 2008. Their style has been called indie rock in the style of electropop, which means they are big with the college radio crowd. Their third studio album Evolve shows some artistic growth, but mostly carries on with the formula from the first two albums that catapulted them to international fame. They haven’t let stardom go to their heads and have contributed to and promoted a number of charities, and even started one for young people with cancer. Imagine Dragons will be at the Barclays Center in October, but until then you can watch their video for “Thunder."
Meek Mill, Wins and Losses
Meek Mill is a hip hop artist and former battle rapper from Philadelphia. His new CD is a thematic step up from his Dreamchasers mixtapes, which were typical brag and swagger but still showcased his vaunted lyrical skills. Now, Meek seems to be maturing and rapping more about the after-effects of pursuing material goals and the devastating loss of his friend and collaborator Lil Snupe. Despite his ongoing feuds with 50 Cent, Drake, and others, Meek still has an army of guest stars to flesh out the new songs. Check out the clean version of the track “1942 Flows."
Jay-Z, 4:44
There is a growing, unfortunate trend in new music releases where there is little advance warning before an album drops. If you ever wondered why Queens Library doesn’t get a new CD until weeks after its release, it is usually because it's not available to order until it has already been released on streaming services. Such is the case with Jay-Z’s 13th studio album, 4:44. It was worth the wait, though, as it is considered one of his best albums. It can also be considered as a companion piece to his wife Beyoncé’s super-hit album Lemonade, on which she accuses him of infidelity. On 4:44, Jay-Z raps about the infidelity charge, his friendship with Kanye West, and some personal issues with his mother, among other topics. It has been a giant success with the critics and his fans. But what does the title mean? Let's find out.
Chris Stapleton, From a Room Vol. 1
Kentucky native and former member of the SteelDrivers, Chris Stapleton has released his second solo album. The songs cover a range of styles, from country and soul to blues and Southern rock. The lyrics tend to be about flawed people who fail but keep on trying to better themselves. If Stapleton is referring to himself, you wouldn’t know it by looking at his chart success and crossover popularity. His guitar playing is outstanding as well. Listen to the latest single, “I Was Wrong."
Arcade Fire, Everything Now
Arcade Fire is an art rock, indie dance band from Montreal. They have been festival and critical darlings since their 2010 album The Suburbs hit a nerve and found commercial success. The band incorporates many unusual instruments, such as xylophone, French horn, and hurdy-gurdy, which only adds to their charm. Their fifth album, Everything Now, takes some bold steps in new directions and has led to some confusion as to what their future might sound like. Will they be more concerned with social commentary or making music to dance to? Their satirical online promotions for the album indicate that they don’t take themselves too seriously and there is still plenty of fun ahead. You can hear the entire album on Freegal.
Ke$ha, Rainbow
Kesha (stylized as Ke$ha) is a well-known dance-pop star, songwriter, and rapper. Her megahit “Tik Tok” sold over 14 million copies internationally. Her career took a hit when she got into legal battles with her former producer and entered rehab. She’s come back strong, though, and her new album Rainbow is equal parts angry, sad, and upbeat. Kesha delves into different styles, exploring country, rock, and feminist protest themes to showcase her new independence. You’ll dance, you’ll cry, and you’ll be glad she’s overcome her struggles to release such a powerful record. Her fans made it number one on the Billboard Top 200 when it was released, but new fans should keep it going on the charts for quite some time. Hear it for yourself (in clean and explicit versions) on Freegal.
DJ Khaled, Grateful
Originally known only as a hype man in the record industry, DJ Khaled has gone on to become a record producer, disc jockey, author, and rapper of renown. All of those skills come into play when he puts together a new album, and Grateful is no exception. Every song features a guest artist from his circle of musical celebrity friends, and the record went immediately to number one on the Billboard Top 200. Grateful was nominated for five MTV Video Music Awards last month. Though he didn’t win any that night, DJ Khaled was center screen for much of the show. You can stream the whole album (in clean and explicit versions) on Freegal.
LeToya Luckett, Back 2 Life
LeToya Luckett came to prominence in the music world as a member of Destiny’s Child, where she sold over 25 million albums and won two Grammy Awards. Her solo career has also been successful, with her first two records topping the R&B charts. As a songwriter, LeToya concentrates on the standard R&B themes of love, loss, and empowerment, but she isn’t just filling in the blanks on some musical template. It's obvious from her performances that her words are important to her, and she conveys her feelings to the listener with her heart on her sleeve. LeToya also acts and you may have seen her as the star of the movie Preacher’s Kid or on the HBO show Treme. She may never completely break free from her connection to Destiny’s Child, but she does deserve to be recognized on her own merits. Watch the video (well, short film, really) for the song “In the Name of Love.”
Harry Styles, Harry Styles
You loved him in the boy band One Direction and saw him in the movie Dunkirk. Now, Harry Styles has a solo album and it is reminiscent of the height of 1990s Britpop. Where One Direction was pop and dance oriented, Harry goes for more of a soft rock sound, with decided undercurrents of Oasis and the Verve. It's as though he wants to draw us in closer and give us a hug for taking the time to listen. There are upbeat, rocking songs, to be sure, but the overall vibe is intimate and confessional. Harry’s contract calls for two more albums, and this one will make you impatient for what’s next. Stream it on Freegal.
Isley Brothers & Santana, Power of Peace
You might be forgiven if you saw this album and assumed it was some forgotten relic of 1969, a time when Santana and the Isley Brothers were in peak form and peace & love were on everyone’s minds. However, Power of Peace is a brand-new album from these veterans of rock and funk, and the message of peace is just as relevant today as it was back then. All of the songs on the record are cover versions of well-known classics by Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Curtis Mayfield, and others. They are given new life with fresh arrangements that highlight the funk vocals of the Isleys and the Latin-tinged guitar groove of Carlos Santana. The combination works, and you are left wondering why they didn’t think about collaborating years ago. Put on your tie-dye, hold up a peace sign, and listen to it on Freegal.
Milky Chance, Blossom
Most people probably haven’t heard of the German folktronica group Milky Chance. That's probably why they have one the most “shazamed” songs of all time. “Stolen Dance” is number 15 in the Shazam Hall of Fame, to be exact. The trio’s odd but catchy blend of beats, guitar, and reggae rhythms would certainly cause most people to take notice. That particular song does not appear on their new album Blossom. Instead, we get 20 tracks of mostly upbeat music that will have you bopping along and humming to yourself. You’re almost guaranteed to hear it at your local hipster coffee shop. Check out the video for the title track.
Third Day, Revival
Third Day is a contemporary Christian band from Georgia who spread the gospel in a Southern rock style. They’ve been performing since 1992 and have developed a large following, including secular fans, due to their dynamic songs and enthusiastic stage presence. Their most recent album, Revival, is a celebration of their 25th anniversary, and is a bit of a throwback to their original country stomp roots. Newer fans that are more familiar with the band’s contemporary sound might be a bit confused, but they’ll soon be in the swing of things. Listen to the whole album on Freegal.
After two wonderful years of Shakespeare in Queens, the curtain is about to rise on the final season of our unique project with TITAN Theatre Company.
Every month, actors from TITAN will present a free dramatic reading of a Shakespeare play at a community library in Queens.
Lenny Banovez, the Artistic Director of TITAN Theatre Company, will also hold “Talking Shakespeare” discussions at Flushing Community Library, where he will give a “behind-the-scenes” look at Shakespeare and discuss modern interpretations of his plays.
“I have enjoyed so many things about Shakespeare in Queens,” says Banovez. “My favorite, however, is the relationships we are developing with the audiences. There is a true following; many of our audience members have attended ALL of the readings so far. To provide the works of Shakespeare to the people of Queens for FREE is a marvelous thing. The works of Shakespeare continue to be relevant in our world today, and to expose people to them who normally wouldn’t attend the theatre is something I find very important.”
As TITAN finishes three years of performing each of the 37 plays that Shakespeare wrote, they have saved some of the best for last! This season’s schedule includes several of Shakespeare’s most famous works, including Romeo and Juliet, As You Like It, Julius Caesar, King Lear, and, last but not least, Hamlet, our final Shakespeare in Queens performance, on August 6, 2018.
"We knew we wanted to go big this year,” observed Banovez. “It’s year three and the culmination of the project. I know it has excited our actors and company to be able to bring these plays to community libraries in Queens, and I hope the audiences are as excited as we are.”
Season Three of Shakespeare in Queens begins with Romeo and Juliet on Monday, October 2, at 5:30 p.m. at Queens Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd. in Jamaica.
For the full schedule for Shakespeare in Queens's final season, visit www.queenslibrary.org/shakespeare.
Looking for new music? Look no further than your local Queens Library!
Every month, our expert staff will bring you the best of what's new in our physical and digital collections.
Check out our music recommendations for August 2017!
Glen Campbell, Adiós
American music legend Glen Campbell died on August 8, two months after his last LP, Adiós, was released. It was recorded five years ago, when he was entering the degenerative stages of Alzheimer’s disease, but he was still able to lay down the basic tracks. In his career, Campbell released over 70 albums of country, rock, and pop, and his biggest hit, “Rhinestone Cowboy,” sold over 2 million copies in 1975. He went on to host a variety show on TV and appear in movies with stars like John Wayne and Clint Eastwood. Although he had already released his “final” album in 2010, Campbell decided to do one more after completing his farewell tour. Watch the video for the title track.
Patti LaBelle, Bel Hommage
The Godmother of Soul and original singer of 1974’s megahit “Lady Marmalade” is back. Philadelphia’s Patti LaBelle has been recording hits since the 1960s, first with her group the Bluebells (later called Labelle) and then as a solo artist from 1977 to today. Along the way, she’s acted on Broadway, created a successful brand of sweet potato pies, and appeared on Dancing with the Stars. On her first album in 12 years, Patti transitions from soul and R&B to jazz and pop standards. It is a little strange at first to hear her hold back her distinctive, dynamic voice to capture the mood of the songs, but there are still plenty of fireworks to be had. You can stream the whole album on Freegal
2 Chainz, Pretty Girls Like Trap Music
The rapper known as 2 Chainz (real name Tauheed Epps) was born in Georgia and began his musical career as part of the duo Playaz Circle. That group caught the attention of Ludacris, who signed them to his label and released two albums that got them national attention. 2 Chainz then went solo and released his landmark, number-one album Based on a T.R.U. Story. He is now on his fourth solo LP, Pretty Girls Like Trap Music, and the critics say it is his best work yet. Guests on the album include Drake, Nicki Minaj, Migos, and Pharrell, so it has star power to spare. In an interview for the album, 2 Chainz claims he never goes into the studio with anything written down; the producer tries out a few beats and he extemporizes the rest. Listen to the clean version of the single “Realize."
Ricardo Arjona, Circo Soledad
How does a basketball player from Guatemala become one of the most successful singers in Latin America? Like many, he started by appearing in a telenovela, where his good looks and traditional ballads got him noticed. Once he had a fan base established, he moved on to rock and pop and took on the nickname “El Animal Nocturno.” His fame skyrocketed as he kept expanding his musical palette to keep from getting pigeonholed and stale. His latest LP is a kind of retrospective of his styles, with songs ranging from acoustic ballads to Latin pop to guitar-heavy rock. He considers it his best and favorite album to date. Hear it for yourself on Freegal.
Chuck Berry, Chuck
Long live rock and roll! It is a shame that Chuck Berry didn’t live long enough to see the release of his final album, especially since he hadn’t put out any new material since 1979. In a way, he’s had plenty of new songs, just written and performed by other artists who took his signature guitar riffs and changed them just enough to avoid a lawsuit. No matter—the eight new songs and two covers on Chuck prove once again that Mr. Berry could still play better guitar at 90 than most musicians half his age. Even though his voice is no longer young, the songs themselves could fit right in on any of his albums from the 1950s. There is only a hint of an elder statesman looking back at his life. This is an album of celebration, not nostalgia. Watch the video for the song “Big Boys”
Mary J. Blige, Strength of a Woman
The Queen of Hip Hop Soul has come a long way since her 1992 break-out album What’s the 411?. Mary J. Blige has released 8 multi-platinum CDs, won 9 Grammy awards, acted in movies and on TV, and even launched a perfume that broke sales records. Her 13th album has not been unlucky; it debuted at number 3 on the Billboard Top 200 and has spawned two number-one singles. Guest artists Kanye West, Missy Elliott, DJ Khaled, and others help Blige bring her music to a new generation of fans. As a Bronx native, Mary has always had a lot of support in the New York City area, and her concerts are always a hot ticket. Whether you’re a fan of R&B, soul, pop, or hip hop, you’ll be sure to find a lot to like here. Check out the video for the title track.
Katy Perry, Witness
Katy Perry has come a long way since her 2008 hit “I Kissed a Girl.” Since then, she has become one of the best-selling and most popular singers of all time, with over 100 million records sold and the most watched halftime show in Super Bowl history. Not bad for someone who started as a gospel singer from California. Her current album Witness continues Katy’s exploration of electropop and EDM, with lyrical themes of female empowerment and personal refection. The result isn’t always cohesive and the production is sometimes quite strange. However, it is to her credit that she is willing to stretch her creative muscles and not just deliver a platter of what the people want. Watch the video for the latest single (and one of the slower songs) “Save as Draft.”
Phoenix, Ti Amo
Phoenix is an alternative rock band from France with synthpop leanings. They’ve been recording and touring since 2000, but their big break was in 2009. That’s when their song “1901” became a surprise smash hit internationally. Suddenly, Phoenix was on every late night show and featured in every big festival line-up. Their new album indicates that on their subsequent world tours, they liked Italy the best. It is practically a love letter to Italian discos and La Dolce Vita. Like their friends in Daft Punk, Phoenix have captured America’s imagination and helped us to forget about “freedom fries.” Watch the video for the first single from the album, "J-Boy," which takes place on an imaginary Italian TV show.
Bryson Tiller, True to Self
While R&B has been mixed with hip hop for years, Bryson Tiller has taken that fusion to a new creative level. The fact that he does it all himself, with no featured guests on any tracks, just adds to his stature as an artist. He writes the songs, sings the lyrics that are best expressed in melody, and raps the rest. It can be a delicate balance, but Tiller manages it with a style that has great crossover appeal. As proof, his second album True to Self debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. While there are no guests, the songs do feature some well-known samples from SWV, Travis Scott, Ice Cube, and many others. The samples add to the themes of the songs but don’t detract from Tiller’s voice. You can stream the whole album from Freegal.
John Mayer, The Search for Everything
Whether it’s blues, pop, folk, jazz, soul, or comedy you’re looking for, John Mayer has something for you. When he isn’t out touring with Dead & Company, he is an accomplished solo performer. John plays many instruments, but mostly sticks with guitar and piano. When he is writing songs, he doesn’t necessarily know what style or form the end product will take, but lets the process develop organically. John’s earnest musical persona is often at odds with his “man about town” personality, and he is often in the tabloids as much for his celebrity dates as he is for his music. His latest LP The Search for Everything was preceded by two EPs and the hit single “Love on the Weekend.” The album is a mix of styles and John experiments with a variety of production techniques. The result is not cohesive, but each song speaks well for itself. Listen to the whole album on Freegal.
Halsey, Hopeless Fountain Kingdom
Named after a subway stop in Brooklyn, Halsey is an electro-pop singer and songwriter who achieved fame by collaborating with the Chainsmokers on the song “Closer.” Her second LP Hopeless Fountain Kingdom is a concept album loosely based on Baz Luhrman’s cinematic version of Romeo and Juliet. She says she was inspired by a recent relationship gone wrong, and song titles like “Hopeless,” “Sorry,” and “Bad at Love” seem to prove the point. The songs are more radio friendly than her first album, but that has led to some criticism that Halsey is trying to please others more than herself. Her fans didn’t seem to notice, as the album debuted at number 2 on the Billboard Top 200 chart. Listen to the track “100 Letters.”
Lady Antebellum, Heart Break
Lady Antebellum is a country pop music trio from Nashville. They have three certified platinum albums and nine number-one singles. Not bad, considering their lead singer Hillary Scott was rejected twice in the first round of American Idol. Their latest album was released after a three-year hiatus when the members took time to record solo projects and work on the children’s charities they sponsor. Heart Break went straight to number one on the Billboard country music chart, proving that their fans are patient and loyal. Watch the video for the upbeat first single “You Look Good.”
Looking for new music? Look no further than your local Queens Library!
Every month, our expert staff will bring you the best of what's new in our physical and digital collections.
We missed our June New Music blog due to unforeseen circumstances, so we'll have extra music selections for you the next couple of months.
Check out our music recommendations for July 2017!
Linkin Park, One More Light
Once the standard-bearers of rap rock, Linkin Park have gone full-on pop with their new CD, One More Light. For the first time, the band wrote the lyrics before the music and left out their usual screams and heavy guitar leads. They produced the record themselves, but brought in collaborators from the EDM field and even allowed a woman guest vocalist, Kiiara, to sing lead on a track. The rap element is still there, but the flow is more laid back and less angry. Their fans are split. Half want the band to go back to their hard-edged sound, while the other side love the new direction. Unfortunately, with the recent death of lead singer Chester Bennington at age 41, the future of the band is uncertain. Listen to the eerily prescient track “Nobody Can Save Me” and give a moment of silence for Chester.
J.J. Hairston, You Deserve It
Since 1991, J.J. Hairston has been the leader of the Bridgeport, CT gospel choir Youthful Praise. As singer, songwriter, and head motivator, he gets top billing, but it is a team effort. They have built a reputation for rousing live performances and inspirational songcraft. Together, they have risen to the top of the gospel charts and have performed on mainstream TV like Conan O’Brien's late-night show. Their sound is a mix of old school and new style that has a broad appeal to even secular audiences. Watch a performance of the title track.
Diana Krall, Turn Up the Quiet
Diana Krall is a Canadian jazz vocalist and pianist who you may also know as the wife of rocker Elvis Costello. Her fame came mainly in the 1990s, when her popular take on jazz standards was a relief from the decade of grunge and nu-metal artists she routinely outsold. Since then, she has worked with Ray Charles, Barbra Streisand, and Paul McCartney, to name a few. Her new album is a mix of pop and jazz standards done in Ms. Krall’s unique style. Get yourself in the mood with “Isn’t It Romantic?”
Faith Evans, The King & I
Soul/R&B singer Faith Evans has a new album with an old concept. Using 20-year-old audio from her late husband, The Notorious B.I.G., she has crafted 25 duets to honor his legacy and let us know that she still misses him. It is a labor of love that should please her fans, even though it is not the first posthumous duets project featuring Biggie. What Ms. Evans brings to the table is her personal experience with the man she is honoring, and those emotions are at the core of every track. Critics may say it comes too late, but as a widow, no one should tell her when the time is right—only she knows. Watch the video for “Legacy."
Residente, Residente
Krall René Pérez Joglar, better known as Residente, is a rapper, producer, and activist from Puerto Rico. He founded the enormously popular hip-hop group Calle 13 and, together with his solo work, has earned more Grammy awards (24) than any other Latin artist. He is a long-time proponent of education and humanitarian efforts in Latin America and has won many awards in those endeavors as well. His new solo, self-titled CD expands his musical palette to include styles and languages from outside the Latin community. His fans will understand that it is all part of his commitment to education and exploring beyond your comfort zone. The album is available on Freegal.
Rick Ross, Rather You Than Me
Rick Ross is a southern American rapper who is known for mixing humorous lyrics with tales of potent urban reality. He broke into the field as the “Teflon Don” and was gaining notoriety until it was revealed that he had previously worked as a corrections officer. That didn’t set him back long, though, as he addressed his critics in his lyrics and owned up to his past. His further misadventures with the law and bad relationships only added to his credibility, due to his talent of turning his life into funny, crude, and blistering lyrical commentary. His new CD Rather You Than Me continues his legacy of music that is fun to listen to while it pokes authority. Stream the whole album (clean or explicit) on Freegal.
Bob Dylan, Triplicate
Once again, Bob Dylan is raiding the vault of the Great American Songbook and covering what used to be Frank Sinatra’s territory in his own unique style. Dylan’s latest release is Triplicate, which, on vinyl, is his first-ever three-LP set of new material. The songs are Tin Pan Alley and Brill Building standards from the 1920s to the early 1960s and represent three themes: self-reflection, swaggering & boasting, and sentimental feelings. Typical of late, Dylan’s voice isn’t quite up to the task in some areas but, where his vocal range fails him, his ability to emote saves the day. Where Sinatra would have a big band behind him, Dylan opts for a simpler sound, which allows the songs themselves to shine. Thirty songs is a lot to take in, but if you are up to the task, you can listen to them all on Freegal.
Raekwon, The Wild
Staten Island rapper and original member of the Wu-Tang Clan, Raekwon (aka the Chef) has released his latest CD. Known for his gritty, streetwise lyrics and “boom-bap,” mafioso rap style, Raekwon has recently been experimenting with incorporating more recent production techniques to attract younger fans. He has also cut back on the number of guest stars, which seems to fly in the face of current trends. These experiments seem to have paid off as The Wild is Raekwon’s best-reviewed album since 2009. Listen to (and learn more about) “Marvin,” his tribute to Marvin Gaye with CeeLo Green.
Pentatonix, PTX, Vol. IV - Classics
The five members of the a cappella group Pentatonix didn’t rehearse together until the day before their audition for the talent TV show The Sing-Off. Their mutual love of the show Glee, combined with their vocal skills and quick-study collaboration, eventually led them to the grand prize and they never looked back. They have previously released albums of pop covers, originals, and Christmas songs, but their new album covers a wide range of material, from the Andrews Sisters to Queen. Every song is given the Pentatonix signature sound, which has made them the first a cappella group to hit the mainstream in many years. Watch them perform the song “Jolene” with Dolly Parton.
Leela James, Did It for Love
R&B diva Leela James is a soul singer with roots in the classics. While she is most frequently compared to Aretha Franklin and Toni Braxton, she prefers James Brown, Gladys Knight, and Stevie Wonder. No matter—with references like that, you can already imagine what she sounds like, you just need to hear her to understand what makes her unique. Ms. James creates songs of love, loss, and celebration that seem modern but are actually a master class in gospel, soul, funk, and blues. She avoids lyrics that put women in non-empowered roles and is very vocal about distancing herself from her contemporaries who promote misogyny, overt sexuality, and empty materialism. Watch her unabashedly romantic video for “All Over Again.”
Alison Krauss, Windy City
Alison Krauss is the most awarded singer and female artist in the history of the Grammy Awards. She is best known for bluegrass albums with her band Union Station, but she has also recorded country, folk, R&B, and pop albums. Her latest CD is a country album of cover songs selected by Alison and her producer. The focus here is on the Nashville sound and features songs previously performed by Brenda Lee, the Osborne Brothers, Willie Nelson, and others. It is a slice of Americana that evokes a simpler time. Listen to the title track.
Kevin Eubanks, East West Time Line
Fans of Jay Leno will recognize Kevin Tyrone Eubanks as the leader of the Tonight Show Band for 15 years. Kevin is an accomplished jazz and fusion guitar player from Philadelphia. He has worked with such luminary musicians as Art Blakey, Dave Holland, and Jean-Luc Ponty. East West Time Line is his 23rd solo record, but he isn’t performing alone. He actually has two backing bands, one for the West Coast and another for the East. The album’s diversity of material reflects each coast’s style, from New York swing to a Los Angeles Latin groove. It is a showcase of Eubanks’ talents, highlighting his unique six-string technique in a variety of styles. This could be the soundtrack of your summer. Stream the album on Freegal.
Looking for new music? Look no further than your local Queens Library!
Every month, our expert staff will bring you the best of what's new in our physical and digital collections.
We had to skip June's New Music blog due to unforseen circumstances, so expect the next couple of months to have even more music than usual.
Check out our music recommendations for July 2017!
Linkin Park, One More Light
Once the standard-bearers of rap rock, Linkin Park have gone full-on pop with their new CD, One More Light. For the first time, the band wrote the lyrics before the music and left out their usual screams and heavy guitar leads. They produced the record themselves, but brought in collaborators from the EDM field and even allowed a woman guest vocalist, Kiiara, to sing lead on a track. The rap element is still there, but the flow is more laid-back and less angry. Their fans are split. Half want the band to go back to their hard edge sound, while the other side love the new direction. Unfortunately, lead singer Chester Bennington's recent death at age 41 leaves the band with an uncertain future. Listen to the eerily prescient track “Nobody Can Save Me,” and give a moment of silence for Chester.
Brantley Gilbert, The Devil Don’t Sleep
Brantley Gilbert is a country rock artist from Georgia. His style of music encompasses country themes set to rock music, with some hip-hop styling thrown in for good measure. Though frowned upon by country traditionalists, this style is gaining in popularity with younger fans and his new album debuted at number 2 on the Billboard 200 chart. The first half of the album contains the songs that are or will be club hits, while the second half showcases Brantley’s more soulful side. Try one of his hit videos on for size with the first single “The Weekend."
Chris Thile & Brad Mehldau, Chris Thile & Brad Mehldau
Chris Thile plays the mandolin and sings folk tunes. Brad Mehldau is an accomplished jazz pianist and composer. Put them together and you have Chris Thile & Brad Mehldau, the debut CD by this intriguing duo. Though these two musicians have played live together often, this is their first studio recording. Comprised of covers and original songs, the album takes the listener on a journey to the heart of American music that finds common ground between jazz and folk, blues and country. This is music for musicians, and for those who appreciate pure artistry. Watch them perform the original tune “The Old Shade Tree” live on CBS This Morning.
Fat Joe & Remy Ma, Plata O Plomo
Bronx rappers Fat Joe and Remy Ma join forces for the new album Plata O Plomo, which translates to “money or bullets,” a phrase made popular by Pablo Escobar. It has been a long time since either artist has released new material, but you couldn’t tell from listening to the CD. In fact, the first single “All the Way Up” has already sold 2 million copies and been nominated for the most overplayed song of the year. The rest of the tracks are mainly club-friendly, referencing their '90s style with current production dynamics. It’s a formula, but one that seems to work. Watch them perform the latest single “Money Showers” on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
Wyclef Jean, J'ouvert
Rapper, writer, actor, and activist Wyclef Jean is going back to his Haitian roots with his latest release J’ouvert, a precursor to his upcoming album The Carnival Vol. III. This makes sense because the title comes from the name of the early morning party that kicks off Carnival in Caribbean cultures. Wyclef is ready to get festive with some upbeat tracks like “Party Started” and “If I Was President 2016,” a playful take on our current political situation. There are more serious themes and many references to Black Lives Matter, but perhaps the best pop crossover track is his ode to the country of his birth and the focus of his political activism, “Lady Haiti."
The Jesus and Mary Chain, Damage and Joy
As a mainstay of alternative rock radio, The Jesus and Mary Chain combined swirling feedback and distortion guitars with surf and bubblegum melodies to create a wall of toe-tapping noise that triggered the shoegaze movement of the 1990s. The core of the Scottish group is the brothers Jim and William Reid. Like most bands of siblings, they grew to hate being around each other and the group broke up in 1998. They’ve gone on to solo projects and reunited occasionally for live shows but now, almost 20 years later, they are back with a new studio album. While it may not capture their glory days, it is a welcome bit of buzz and Britpop for those who miss MTV's 120 Minutes. Listen to the song “Amputation."
Trey Songz, Tremaine
Most singers don’t wait for their seventh album to use their own name as the title, but Trey Songz (aka Tremaine Neverson) did. Perhaps it’s his way of letting his listeners know that this one is more about the real Trey and not his alter egos Trigga or “Tremaine the Playboy” as seen on his VH1 reality dating show. As evidenced by many of the songs on the album, it seems that a more mature Trey is emerging, and the naughty R&B of his past is being replaced by more soulful tunes. For every immature, leering track like “Animal,” there are two counterpoints like “Come Over” and “Break from Love." In some ways, it represents the struggle to remain young while no longer being able to deny getting older and, hopefully, wiser. This is most evident on the track “Playboy"; listen to the clean version.
Train, A Girl, A Bottle, A Boat
Train is a rock and pop band from San Francisco capable of a range of music from dance pop to Led Zeppelin covers. They achieved success in 2001 with the mega-hit “Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)” and have gone on to sell 10 million albums and 30 million tracks worldwide. Their 10th studio album, A Girl, A Bottle, A Boat, is their first without lead guitarist Jimmy Stafford and, as expected, the sound is heavy on the pop, light on the rock. That didn’t stop the first single “Play That Song” from already being certified platinum. They will be touring the East Coast in June, but until then you can stream the new album on Freegal.
Charlie Wilson, In It To Win It
Also known as Uncle Charlie, Mr. Wilson is an R&B pioneer and enduring influence on every new generation of performers from gospel to rap. In 2013, he won a BET Lifetime Achievement Award and the broadcast of that ceremony broke viewership records for that channel. Charlie came to prominence as the lead vocalist of the funky Gap Band, but his solo career has showcased his variety of styles and talent. His new album is full-on gospel lyrically, but covers a broad spectrum of styles musically. Guest stars Snoop Dogg, Pitbull, Lalah Hathaway, and others help spread the word, showing their love and appreciation for a man they all know as “Uncle." You can stream the album on Freegal.
Aimee Mann, Mental Illness
Aimee Mann started her musical career as a member of the 1980s new wave band ‘Til Tuesday. Since they broke up in 1989, Aimee has been forging a solo career focused on songwriting and performing music that falls under the umbrella of “indie” but really runs from folk ballads to power pop. She is a critical darling without much commercial success, a fact parodied on the TV show Portlandia, where she played herself as a cleaning woman trying to pay the bills. Chances are that her new album Mental Illness won’t elevate her star status, but it is a solid work of dark, acoustic songs best heard on a rainy day or while working through a depression. If you think Joni Mitchell’s Blue is a classic, give this one a try on Freegal.
That’s right, it’s Global Warming! Keen observers of the Battle of the Bands will remember them from last AND from the year before - the first year of the competition. Fan favorites Global Warming started in 2012 at Grover Cleveland High School in Ridgewood, and have been playing together ever since. Their member lineup is typically one of the bigger ones in the competition, and as a result, they have plenty of diverse influences. We’re always excited to see what new sounds they’re working on!
Last year, they came in at third place. Will they climb the ranks this year? Tune in for another hot performance by Global Warming at the Colden Auditorium!
“Poetry is what in a poem makes you laugh, cry, prickle, be silent, makes your toe nails twinkle, makes you want to do this or that or nothing, makes you know that you are alone in the unknown world, that your bliss and suffering is forever shared and forever all your own.” ― Dylan Thomas
We’re so excited for the second year of the Queens Library Summer Poetry Contest! Last year, poets of all ages and experience levels wowed us with their words. We can’t wait to read this year’s entries!
In the meantime, if you’ve got an idea brewing for a poem but feeling a little stuck or unsure how to turn it into rhyme or verse, here are some tips to get your creative juices flowing.
• Avoid clichés. Think about the themes or feeling the cliché is actually capturing, and phrase that with your own words.
• Use metaphor and simile – that is, describing something as something else (metaphor) or by likening the object to something else (simile). These techniques evoke stronger imagery.
• Clear your head! Take a walk like Wordsworth, eat an apple like Agatha Christie, drink tea like Samuel Johnson – just do something to reset so that when you come back to a blank page, it’s a challenge, not an obstacle.
• Try to write a ‘found poem’ by extracting key words and phrases from longer works of poetry or prose. You can then format it by rearranging the words to create your desired rhythm. This is also a great exercise for kids!
So what are you waiting for? Sit down, crunch on an apple, and get started!
Submit your entry HERE before July 31!
Plus: Hone your skills in these poetry programs
2017 Summer Poetry Contest Workshop
Thursday, July 13 @ 6pm
Central
Teen Summer Reading Program: Poetry Reading and Writing
Thursdays, July 13 – 20 @ 4pm
Forest Hills
Poetry Slam!
Thursdays, July 13 – August 4 @ 3pm
Lefrak City
Write Now! with NY Writers Coalition
Saturdays, July 15 – December 30 @ 2pm
Broadway
Poetry Club
Monday, July 17 @ 12:30pm
Auburndale
Sources:
• http://mentalfloss.com/article/62431/16-famous-authors-tips-writing-better-poetry
• http://wordsdance.com/2013/07/50-powerful-quotes-about-poetry/
• http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/lesson_images/lesson49/RWT028-4.pdf
• http://www.readwritethink.org/parent-afterschool-resources/tips-howtos/help-child-write-poem-30317.html
• https://jerz.setonhill.edu/writing/creative1/poetry-writing-tips-how-to-write-a-poem/
They’re back to battle it out for round 2: say hello to Summer Haze, veterans of the competition who will once again treat the audience to an array of punk bangers.
The Long Island four-piece, comprised of singer, guitarist, and songwriter Jack Turner, lead guitarist Clark Adomaitis, bassist Tim Cartmell and drummer Evan Declemente, will deliver some of their favorite original tracks.
Make sure to get your tickets so you can rock out to dance-punk numbers like “I Would Do Anything” and “Home Field Advantage.”
Welcome back, boys!
Meet Battle of the Bands contestants Apollo 4! The Bayside High School students first appeared on each other’s radars when David Landau and guitarist Christian Merano met at a spring concert.
As they got to know each other’s performance styles through various high school band performances, it was a natural choice to start jamming out of school hours as well. They later joined forces with a second guitarist, Ian Musfid, and a drummer, Daniel Cruz, anchoring their sound with percussion.
Now, the band plays live regularly, delivering exciting original compositions and covers of their favorite tracks.