Smith Westerns - Varsity, from the new album "Soft Will."

Composer and electronic musician Dan Deacon is known for his experimental and interactive shows. When a lightning storm rolled through minutes before his outdoor set was set to begin, it sparked the idea to move his gear and the dance party underground, and the impromptu performance in Walker Art Center's parking garage gave an energized start for fans at Rock The Garden 2013. Highlights from the set are backed by Deacon's "Konono Ripoff No. 1."

  Monday, July 1 Sleep Study, American Authors, Taj Raj 7th St. Entry, Minneapolis 8 p.m., $8 adv/$10 door, 18+ If you missed Taj Raj at their big release show at the Turf last month, tonight’s gig gives curious fans another chance to sample their new alt-country influenced rock sound up close. And judging by…

We're giving a tip of the hat to our friends up north with today's Coffee Break. What Canadian artists/bands do you want to hear to celebrate Canada Day?

Today Michael Rand chatted with The Morning Show's Jill Riley and Jade about the Timberwolves draft picks, the upcoming series for the Twins against the Yankees, and he explains the whole murder plot that involves the player from the Patriots.

This week on New Hot, we'll look at three albums widely considered to be among the most critically and commercially successful albums of the year so far.

Treetop Flyers - Things Will Change, from the new album "The Mountain Moves."

On 'Desire Lines,' Camera Obscura have delivered a well-produced, well-sequenced blend of pop songs intertwined with subtle heartstring-pullers.

James Chapman's charming songs sound fizzy and bright throughout Vicissitude, Maps' third album, but they also convey his thoughtful reflections on transition and doubt.

The Avett Brothers stopped by The Current studios before their show at the Somerset Amphitheater to chat with host Bill DeVille about their upcoming album. They gave us a sneak peak with a performance of the new single "Part From Me," and played a couple old tracks, too.