For purists, Random Access Memories may instantly disappoint because it abandons EDM's tried-and-true routes to body-mind fulfillment. Instead, the album features relatively loose live jamming, pop-operatic balladry and the Bach-quoting keyboards of progressive rock.

John Grant's sophomore solo effort Pale Green Ghosts finds the singer using his considerable lyrical prowess to map conventional indie singer-songwriter tropes—intricate retellings of heartbreak and existential struggle—onto a landscape of throbbing electro-pop.

As the 88th Minnesota State legislature takes up the issue of same-sex marriage, we're building a playlist with artists who rock with pride -- help us out by making a suggestion or two.

This week on New Hot, read about a British singer whose debut is getting a United States release, as well as an album whose title comes from a Junior Reed song. These are our three recommended releases for Tuesday, May 14.

Storm Thorgerson, the artist behind countless famous album covers including Pink Floyd's iconic Dark Side of the Moon, recently passed away. When we heard the news here at The Current, we got to thinking—what are our favorite album covers? Peruse our choices, and let us know yours!

The National release their first proper video -- "Sea of Love" -- from their new record 'Trouble Will Find Me,' out May 21, 2013 on 4AD records.

Sharon Jones, whose new album, Give the People What They Want, comes out August 6, pours her heart out on a soulful new song, "Retreat."

This week on New Hot, read about a group whose frontwoman runs the influential Pop Noire record label plus the newest funk and soul sensation sweeping Europe. These are our three recommended releases for Tuesday, May 7.

Julia Sweeney is a comedian and writer best-known for her stint on Saturday Night Live in the early '90s and for her hilarious, thoughtful and moving monologues. While she was in town for Wits last fall, she stopped by The Current to chat with Barb Abney and take over our airwaves.

Everyone has at least one favorite band, if not several (in fact, many of us have trouble even narrowing down our choices). But how did they make it to that status? Here at The Current, we want to hear your answer to the following question: what was it like the first time you heard what would become your favorite band?