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The best albums of 2026 (so far)
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About this episode
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:…