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Kaija Saariaho, the composer who explored color and light, has died at age 70
MusicSaariaho, who battled a male-dominated educational system in her native Finland, forged a strong and singular voice in contemporary music.

What's making us happy: A guide to your weekend reading, listening and viewing
MusicEach week, the guests and hosts on NPR's <em>Pop Culture Happy Hour</em> share what's bringing them joy. This week: <em>Clone High, </em>the "Thursday Murder Club" mystery series, Mel Mitchell on TikTok, and more.

A lullaby really can work magic. Science tells us why and how
MusicSometimes the right lullaby sends my kids off to dreamland so fast it makes me feel like I have a parenting superpower. Turns out the wonder of lullabies is confirmed by scientific research.

The Handsome Family, 'Joseph'
MusicListen closely to The Handsome Family and it's as if you have stepped into a strange, shimmering plane.

Foo Fighters' 'But Here We Are' is heavy, in every sense of the word
MusicThese songs ache with loss, even as they explode in full-bore rock mayhem, and that loss extends beyond the deaths of loved ones.

Incarcerated teens find escape in music and poems composed with artists
MusicTeens in jail in Virginia collaborate with musicians to compose songs, write poetry and find their voices after run-ins with the law.

Unknown Mortal Orchestra: Tiny Desk Concert
MusicThe band's Tiny Desk performance featured songs that leaned right into its incalculability.

Little Richard Documentary celebrates the talent — and mystery — of a legend
MusicA new PBS <em>American Masters </em>documentary showcases the influence of Little Richard, a dynamo performer who never let himself be defined for long by any one musical category or sexual identity.

Kassi Valazza, 'Watching Planes Go By'
MusicThe Portland singer-songwriter trades in twang for psychedelia on a plane-spotting song that captures a fluctuating melancholy.

Jessy Lanza, 'Midnight Ontario'
MusicThe electronic-pop musician builds a distinct sense of time and place, complete with <em>Blade Runner</em> reference.

Our 5 favorite exhibits from 'This Is New York' — a gritty, stylish city celebration
MusicThe Museum of the City of New York is marking its centennial with an exhibition of NYC-inspired film, TV, music and fashion. But this is real New York, "not a love letter," says one of the curators.

'Waiting for change is not an option'
MusicThe unwritten rules of rap unpacked in <em>Louder</em>'s second season are held together by a scarcity principle that came to define the show itself. As it draws to a close, the team reflects on its mission.
More from KCRW
Morning Becomes Eclectic playlist, June 2, 2023
Best New MusicNabhihah Iqbal brings the DIY vibes of her latest LP “DREAMER” to her KCRW Guest DJ set.
Nabihah Iqbal: KCRW Guest DJ set
MusicNabihah Iqbal brings the DIY vibes of her latest LP “DREAMER” to her KCRW Guest DJ set.
Eclectic 24
Best New MusicKCRW's all-music channel blending the collected talents and tastes of all KCRW's DJs into a single voice streaming 24 hours a day.