Local music notes from the weeks of March 12-23

Why is this album essential? Because The Clash were one of the most exciting bands in the world at that time. Sandinista!, the highly anticipated follow up to their rock masterpiece London Calling, is a joyride around the world.

Growing up in London, Ben Howard had two loves: surfing and music. Very rarely are people able to make their hobbies into a fulfilling career, but it looks like Ben Howard is on his way to making it a reality.

In a self-explanatory post titled “Dear fellow-songwriters-pitching-me-songs-for-Adele-to-sing,” Minnesotan songwriter Dan Wilson, now based in L.A., is filing an open letter politely requesting that aspiring songwriters stop asking him how they can get their work to Adele. Wilson was one of the more visible helping hands behind Adele’s Grammys sweep last month; in addition to being…

Video pays homage to Dylan's "Subterranean Homesick Blues"

Poliça, Doomtree seeing spikes in press following trip to Austin

Duluth native Alan Sparhawk has proven that volume doesn't have a limit. His assembled team under the guise of Retribution Gospel Choir provides a striking stylistic departure from the songs he has helped compose as a member of Low. Driving guitars wash over slow-churning rock anthems - it's the perfect way to decompress after a long day.

Former videographer Bo Hakala was cinematographer on 'Stuck Between Stations'

Local bands that deserve must-hear status this week

AEG-owned venue up against sightline and capacity challenges