New Music This Week: Khalid, Maren Morris, and Orville Peck

In this week’s music roundup, NPR Music features new tracks from Khalid and Beck, showcasing a blend of introspective themes and larger-than-life sounds. Sheldon Pearce and Daoud Tyler-Ameen discuss Khalid's latest song "Ground" from his album "Sincere," noting its departure from traditional pop norms. Pearce describes Khalid's music as encapsulating feelings of uncertainty and naivete, suggesting that the artist's introspective nature may not align with the more extroverted persona often associated with R&B showmanship. The conversation shifts to Khalid's collaboration with Beck on the track "Death Valley High," which Pearce describes as bold and assertive. The song contrasts with Khalid's more personal and reflective style, indicating a dynamic range in his new album. Tyler-Ameen emphasizes the internal struggle depicted in the music, suggesting that the lyrics reflect a journey of self-discovery and resilience. As the discussion unfolds, Pearce highlights the emotional depth of the songs, particularly in how they address themes of love and loss. He interprets the structure of the music as a representation of grappling with past experiences while striving for wholeness. The title of Khalid's project, "Intermission," evokes a sense of pause and contemplation, hinting at the artist's ongoing evolution amidst his success. Overall, this week's selections from NPR Music illustrate the diverse landscape of contemporary music, where artists like Khalid and Beck explore complex emotions through their unique sounds.