The best albums of 2026 (so far)
About this episode
The episode features NPR Music writers and critics discussing their favorite albums of 2026 so far.
On a special mid-year episode of New Music Friday, host Stephen Thompson and a lineup of NPR Music writers and critics reflect on their favorite albums of the year so far. Albums featured in this episode: (01:14) Album No. 1 - Noah Kahan, 'The Great Divide' (07:16) Album No. 2 - underscores, 'U' (14:00) Album No. 3 - Cécile McLorin Salvant, 'With Every Breath I Take' (20:13) Album No. 4 - Neurosis, 'An Undying Love For A Burning World' (27:18) Album No. 5 - Tiffany Day, 'HALO' (33:46) Album No. 6 - Metropolis Ensemble, Erik Hall & Sandbox Percussion, 'Canto Ostinato' Credits: Host: Stephen Thompson Guests: Hazel Cills, Ann Powers, Lars Gotrich, Sheldon Pearce, Tom Huizenga Audio Producer: Noah Caldwell Digital Producer: Dora Levite Editors: Otis Hart, Elle Mannion Executive Producer: Suraya Mohamed See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy
People in this episode
Host: Stephen Thompson
Guests: Hazel Cills, Ann Powers, Lars Gotrich, Sheldon Pearce, Tom Huizenga
Topics covered
- best albums
- music review
- NPR Music
- mid-year reflection
- 2026 albums
Keywords
- albums
- music
- NPR
- 2026
- reviews
- critics
- New Music Friday
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Metropolis Ensemble
Books & works: The Great Divide, With Every Breath I Take, An Undying Love For A Burning World, HALO, Canto Ostinato
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