David McGee

The ‘Superhuman’ Voice of Pauline Viardot

Pauline Garcia Viardot (1821-1910) was one of the 19th century’s most versatile and influential opera stars. In his book 'Musical Memories,' CAMILLE SAINT-SAENS provides the most in-depth profile extant of Mme. Viardot.

Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast

Momo & OHora (& Frank Zappa) Before Breakfast

JULES interviews author-illustrator ZACHARIAH OHORA about his newest picture book, MY COUSIN MOMO, and shows some of his fine illustrations. FRANK ZAPPA and CAPTAIN BEEFHEART show up too.

Nature's Temple

My Own Field Trip

A field trip with her students to Hawaii's Hoa 'Aina O Makaha reminds TOUTKA WONGSE-ONT of some eternal truths about nature--strong, spontaneous feelings that nonliving things could not evoke.

Spotlight Album

Of Life and Hearts in the Balance

The earth and the hearts of people living on it are in the balance in the potent songs on IAN TYSON's memorable new album, CARNERO VAQUERO. It's a Tyson classic.

Features / News

Chris Morris Writes the Book on a Great American Band

LOS LOBOS is a vitally important American band, and now it has a biography to suit its stature. MICHAEL SIGMAN gets the story behind CHRIS MORRIS's LOS LOBOS: DREAM IN BLUE.

Classical Perspectives

‘Tenor Hits From the Age of the Talkies’

Reigning tenor king JONAS KAUFFMAN assays a charming collection of songs from a special time in Germany's history, the era of Sally Bowles and the Kit Kat Club

Border Crossings

Light In Shadow

An interview with SHULAMITT OTTOLENGHI about the 10-year journey that produced her powerful new CD, FOR YOU THE SUN WILL SHINE: SONGS OF WOMEN OF THE SHOAH

Reviews

Newport Folk Festival Goes Roots-y (But Hasn’t It Always Been So?)

A surprise set by JAMES TAYLOR was the highlight of highlights at this year's NEWPORT FOLK FESTIVAL. Our man on the scene, IRA MAYER, a festival veteran, reflects on the lineup's not-so-folky flavor.

Reviews

The Past Is Present (And Accounted For)

On COUNTRY GRASS, LORRAINE JORDAN & CAROLINA ROAD bluegrassify old country hits but add a unique twist along the way.

Spotlight Album

Indomitable

A Civil Rights Movement leader and powerful gospel singer, FANNIE LOU HAMER'S authenticity comes through most clearly on SONGS MY MOTHER TAUGHT ME.