This weekend, we’re bringing dispatches from Times critics and writers on great music, TV, movies, recipes and more. They’re all part of a new series called “NYT Shorts,” available only on NYT Audio, our new iOS audio app. It’s home to podcasts, narrated articles from our newsroom and other publishers, and exclusive new shows. Find out more at nytimes.com/audioapp. 

On today’s episode: 

• Five minutes to fall in love with jazz legend Sun Ra. 
• A food critic’s love letter to the eggplant.  
• Recommendations from a Times editor on what to listen to, watch and who to follow this weekend. 

Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.