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A commission on Abu Ghraib prison abuses, headed by former Secretary of Defense James Schlesinger, finds fault throughout the chain of military command and in Washington. Top leaders are criticized for failing to provide adequate resources to the prison. Hear Schlesinger and NPR's Robert Siegel.

Las Vegas is set to claim the title of city with the largest Ferris wheel, but not for long. New York City plans for a taller wheel, and rumors swirl that Dubai may top even that. Host Scott Simon talks to John Russick, director of Curatorial Affairs at the Chicago History Museum, about the first ever Ferris wheel, which debuted at the 1893 World Fair in Chicago.

All Songs Considered host Bob Boilen shares his list of the 10 best albums of 2014 (and a few honorable mentions).

In Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, the median age is 18. Many youth say their aging leaders are out of touch, yet the leading candidates in Saturday's presidential election are in their 70s.

The World Cafe host's favorite albums from this year abide by his mantra: they put good songs first, and present them simply and authentically.

World Cafe's contributing host shines a spotlight on the brilliant artists who provided the soundtrack to an eventful year.

Surprises nevertheless abound in the top 10, as a vinyl reissue lands cult singer-songwriter Ethel Cain on the Billboard 200 for the first time ever and two artists — Alex Warren and BigXthaPlug — experience their first-ever top 10 singles.

Osama bin Laden's top deputy, Ayman al-Zawahiri, is reportedly cornered by Pakistani soldiers near the Afghan border. The United States has offered a $25 million reward for the Egyptian-born Zawahiri's capture. Pakistani officials say a fierce battle with al Qaeda fighters is being waged. NPR's Eric Westervelt reports.

Though more Republican-held seats are up for grabs in November, Democratic struggles mean the GOP has improved its likelihood to take control of the Senate. Here are the key contests to watch.

The All Songs Considered and Tiny Desk host shares his favorite recordings of the year.