Howard Wolfson

There actually was plenty of good journalism this cycle, especially after the election as people sorted through the wreckage. Here’s some of the best of it.

In this lowdown, sorry year, such disparate artists as Beyoncé, Radiohead, and Bob Mould created albums that directly addressed our dire straits. Here’s the best of it.

Music is about as personal as it gets, so here’s my list of music albums that resonated with me this year.

From Bikini Kill to Le Tigre and The Julie Ruin, the many band names of ‘revolution girl’ Kathleen Hanna still add up to one epic feminist front woman.

From loss to politics and even middle age, the remaining members of this alt-country rock band are belting out spectacular songs on ‘English Oceans,’ one of the best albums of 2014 so far.

Hiss Golden Messenger's Mike Taylor shares the personal journey behind his eclectic mix of folk, country, and gospel that captures a uniquely American musical soul.

The descendant of a fabled New Orleans musical dynasty, pianist Jon Batiste is a thrilling musician who makes no apologies about entertaining his audiences as accessibly as he can.

Ten years ago, Bono said U2 was ‘reapplying for the job of the best band in the world.’ It would appear that application is pending once again.

Pete Seeger showed Bruce Springsteen how music can effect political change and raise a nation's spirits, while still bursting with spirit and joy.

In lieu of your favorite record store clerk, here's the best of the web to guide your listening.