The unusual story of Prince Rama begins with sisters Taraka and Nimai Larson, a Hare Krishna commune, Boston art school, and a partnership forged with the surprisingly-normal-named Michael Collins. Traversing psych-rock territory with chanted, often inscrutable vocals, thick electronics and the anchor of live drums, Prince Rama have been a prolific entity (as we learn in this interview), with their fourth and latest album Shadow Temple receiving release from Animal Collective's Paw Tracks label. We spoke with principal songwriter Taraka Larson about her band's SXSW plans - including the day party they're curating - and questions about environment and creation lead us into some interesting directions. more ›

Andrew Bird Armchair Apocrypha (Fat Possum) In a strange small way, Bird's violin and trademark whistle takes a backseat (driver) position on Armchair Apocrypha, allowing more emphatic drumming and leading guitars to rise to the occasion. The album is undoubtedly Bird, showcasing songs about mountains of handkerchiefs and Scythian empires, violin picking and soaring harmonies supporting his soothing croon as expected. "Imitosis" finds his songwriting taking a slight turn in a darker direction, while... more ›

Have you checked out Single Frame's "John Carpenter Halloween Remix" yet? Head over to their site, dig around 'till you find their mp3s, and grab it - then play it loudly for your friend's children. Here's what else is worth mentioning this week in the way of new releases: A Cloud Mireya Singular (Eastern Developments) Though half of A Cloud Mireya is Scott Herren, the mastermind behind Prefuse 73 and Piano Overlord, fans of... more ›