In 2012, the artist that is reminding us of what made early rock and roll great is JD McPherson. A former school teacher and punk rocker from Oklahoma, McPherson found his voice when he abandoned punk for the sound of 1958, recording "Signs and Signifiers" in glorious analog.

Hip-hop artist Brother Ali has never been one to shy away from social justice causes. But his participation in last night’s Occupy Homes protest and subsequent arrest are by far his boldest political statements to date. I called up Brother Ali this morning to learn more about where he was coming from last night. As…

Local music notes from the week of June 18-22

Ali was one of 13 arrested at an Occupy Homes demonstration

Check out the new music that we've added to our mix here at the Current this week, including with new music from buzzed-about acts like Twin Shadow as well as indie staples like Superchunk.

Emily White's NPR Music piece sparked a nationwide debate on how to consume music

Claire will play Local Current Live with The Chalice on June 27

89.3 The Current presenting Grandstand show August 31

Local bands that deserve must-hear status this week

Cat Power's label announced the September release of 'Sun,' her first new album of original material in six years. Hear the breezy, poppy new single, "Ruin."