In the vein of Sam Beam (of Iron & Wine) and Alexis Krauss (of Sleigh Bells) John Maus is the latest in a recent slew of teachers that rock. The Austin, MN native teaches Political Philosophy and Theory at the University of Hawaii while working towards a PhD in Political Science.

Kelly Crisp and Ivan Howard have a relationship that lies beyond band mates. Forming in 2001 immediately after their marriage, the two found themselves in a sea of differences years later and decided to call it quits after their fourth album in 2008. Fortunately for their dedicated indie rock and folk fans the two discovered a whirlwind of beauty and remorse as they define their relationship not only as musicians but as friends after a tumultuous marriage.

Jolie Holland may have once been a founding member of the Vancouver group the Be Good Tanyas, but she was born in Texas. It's those American roots, perhaps, that color her solo career, which is built upon a rich tapestry of different Americana styles, from bluegrass to blues to folk.

The Durham, N.C.-based band Mount Moriah only just released their self-titled debut LP a couple of months ago, preceeded by 2010's "Letting Go" EP, but guitarist Jenks Miller first started a band under the Biblically-influenced name Mount Moriah around five years ago. After some drastic shifts in sound and line-up, the band's sound has settled into a sweet, melancholy strain of folk music.

Ever wonder what makes the host of one of public radio's most beloved shows tick? What tunes he might play if given an hour to control the decks? Well wonder no more.

This amazing collection of songs highlights the musical legacy of an artist who was taken from us much too young.

Howler may have been started as a side project by Jordan Gatesmith from Total Babe, but the attention they are receiving is front and center. Howler was recently signed to London based Rough Trade Records home of The Smiths, The Strokes, and Belle and Sebastian.