The Sampler

Nick Bollinger reviews the latest incarnation of a centuries-old New Orleans carnival tradition from The 79rs Gang, and some of the last recordings by the late African drumming genius Tony Allen Read more Audio

Nick Bollinger reviews new albums from current LA singer-songwriters Phoebe Bridgers and Christian Lee Hutson, plus a lost 70s set from Neil Young. Read more Audio

Nick Bollinger calls a Sampler Summit to discuss the first album of new Bob Dylan songs in eight years. Read more Video, Audio

Nick Bollinger reviews a genre-challenging collection of lost treasures from 1980s Aotearoa; fretboard explorations from Sydney guitarist D.C. Cross; and the tenth-anniversary reissue of a classic… Read more Audio

Nick Bollinger discusses a solo set from in-demand producer Blake Mills; an instrumental evocation of the capital city from cellist and taonga puoro player Ruby Solly; and a homage to AM radio from… Read more Audio

Nick Bollinger discusses an exploration of identity from honey-voiced singer Moses Sumney; a melancholy and atmospheric set from Lyttelton all-rounder Ryan Fisherman; and the first album in three… Read more Audio

Nick Bollinger discusses another concept album about intimacy from Perfume Genius; story-songs with deep Balkan roots from Damir Imamovic; and the Afro-futurist jazz of Shabaka and the Ancestors. Read more Audio

Nick Bollinger discusses the majestic debut of Wellington-based Giantess; the jaded observations of Andrew Fagan; and the Mississippi-soaked soul of Amy LaVere. Read more Audio

Nick Bollinger discusses the truthful voice of Lucinda Williams; the flamenco pop fusion of Rosalía; and an unexpected love letter from gothic rocker Glenn Danzig. Read more Audio

Nick Bollinger reviews a set of travellers’ testimonies from Reb Fountain; psych-rock space jams from The Dream Syndicate; and unashamed romanticism from Ron Sexsmith.

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Nick Bollinger discusses the ways Fiona Apple has channelled her rage into a spectacularly creative new album, and a bleak yet affectionate portrayal of modern Britain from northern troubadour Richard… Read more Video, Audio

Nick Bollinger discusses the lockdown disco of dance pop icon Dua Lipa; a credible comeback from New York City rockers the Strokes; and the travellers’ tales of solitary guitarist M. Ward. Read more Audio