tUnE-yArDs is the moniker and musical project of Merrill Garbus. Influenced by her experience and travels in Africa, she became interested in Afrobeat. Combined with her new Sony ICD-TK digital voice recorder and a new laptop, Garbus began recording melodies, noises, and lyrics which led to the release of her first album BiRd-BrAiNs, which she recorded on recycled cassette tape.

After signing to 4AD, she released "whokill" earlier this year with musical help from bass player Nate Brenner.

Songs performed: "You Yes You," "Bizness," and "My Country."

Web exclusive: "POWA"

Related

• tUnE-yArDs: w h o k i l l CD Review by Steve Seel
• Official Web site