The NACC Chart reflects the most popular music and artists gaining traction on college and community radio stations across North America. They offer insights into the ever-changing taste of younger, experimental listeners who gravitate toward authentic and fresh sounds. This week’s top five artists show the influence of older artists, and rising artists that hold a significant presence in today’s music scene. Many of these sounds may resonate with college students who appreciate the history of music, and the rise of new sounds.
1. Franz Ferdinand – The Human Fear
Moving up to No. 1, Franz Ferdinand and its album, “The Human Fear,” showcase an interesting take on the band’s music evolution. Lead vocalist Alex Kapranos and bassist Bob Hardy have been producing music together for more than 20 years and they still produce the same energetic and danceable tracks. Yet, with new bandmates adding a new sound, and as they age, this album has a cohesive theme, examining various manifestations of fear and the human experience.
2. Father John Misty – Mahashmashana
At the No. 2 spot on the NACC Chart for a consecutive week, Josh Tillman, who goes by Father John Misty, and his newest release, “Mahashmashana,” takes a unique approach to the complexities of life through his lyricism and the dynamic musical landscape. No track sounds the same in this album, from the soulful lead off track of “Mahashmashana,” to the 1970s’ inspired funk and disco groove of “I Guess Time Just Makes Fools of Us All,” the intricate compositions make this album a stand-out in his discography. While the album is different from Tillman’s previous works, young adults who appreciate complex arrangements in music will appreciate it.
3. The Weather Station – Humanhood
The Weather Station’s seventh studio album, “Humanhood,” moved to No. 3 on the NACC Chart. Lead vocalist Tamara Lindeman explores interesting musical components, blending acoustic instruments like banjo and fiddle with layers of synthesizers. She explains “Body Moves,” as an “arrangement that has this sort of sweetness, but this sharpness too,” and while it’s a simple song, it’s a vulnerable sound that makes listeners feel as though they are listening in on something intimate.
4. FKA twigs – EUSEXUA
Tahliah Debrett Barnett, who goes by FKA twigs, is a British singer, writer and dancer. EUSEXUA is her third album, which has an upbeat vibe with a strong emphasis on dance and pop influences. Having an incredible jump on the charts from 42 to five, her increase on the NACC Chart demonstrates that she has the potential of becoming a popular pop artist of her generation.
5. hemlock – 444
At the No.5 spot, “hemlock” stays in the top five artists of the NACC Chart with their newest album, “444” carries themes that are highly relatable to college students, particularly those navigating personal growth, relationships and reflection. Led by Louisiana vocalist Carolina Chauffe, hemlock takes on a calm angelic style of music. With her peaceful guitar patterns, Chauffe presents her music to focus on life and asks listeners to pause in the rhythm of life, take a moment to consider the time we have before our last breath and just be in the moment.
Kayle Hage, sophomore communication major, contributed to this report.
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