Music

Sharon Van Etten's raspy, elegant vocals and deeply confessional folk-rock have made her a rising star. Ever since her official debut in 2009, the heart-breakingly intimate Because I Was In Love, Van Etten has been expanding her sound and adding grit to her delivery.

I try and see music as much as I can. I've been going to the 9:30 Club since it opened. In fact, I was in the first band to ever play the club. So when I walked in the front doors of the club to see an M. Ward show recently, I was surprised that I, along with everyone else getting their hand stamped, received the following marching orders: "Tonight, no photography or videos. Including cell phones."

The Infamous Stringdusters' latest studio recording Silver Sky was released in March on High Country Recordings.  It's the band's fourth studio album, produced by Billy Hume, better known for his work with hip-hop artists.  A pledge campaign provided the funding for the album and tour, with incentives given to donors such as song dedications and signed memorabilia. Progressive thinkers and musicians, the Dusters' stellar artistry, great composing and vibrant synchronicity has delivered another great recording. 

Creatively, Cassandra Wilson has never rested on her laurels, and her new album, Another Country, is no exception to the rule. Nine of the ten songs are composed by Ms. Wilson and/or her collaborating partner, guitarist-producer Fabrizio Sotti, with the tenth a very special arrangement by the duo of the classic aria, O Sole Mio. Recorded in Florence, Italy, the entire sound of the album is intimate, guitar-driven, and lushly romantic. Launched by the lead single, Red Guitar, Another Country is poised to invigorate Cassandra's intensely loyal fan base as well as greet new audiences.