In episode #183 of "For the Record" we discuss the debut album from The Band Ends, R.E.M. drummer Bill Berry's first band since he "retired" in the late 90s. It's a supergroup of Athens, Georgia music veterans.

Singer-songwriter Margo Price may have established her reputation in Nashville, but her fourth album, "Strays," crosses genres and explores a variety of styles, buoyed by collaborators Sharon van Etten and Lucius.

Toronto band Kiwi Jr. is one of our favorite recent discoveries. Their third album knocks it out of the park with new wave synths, tight and jangly guitars, and clever, rapid-fire lyrics. We discuss "Chopper" on episode #181 of "For the Record."

On their third album, NOLA quartet Special Interest mix energetic dance, menacing industrial, and furious political punk to give listeners the catharsis of both anger and joy. We discuss "Endure" on episode #180 of "For the Record."

The Beths write power pop songs with hooks upon hooks, incredible musicianship, and a lot of heart. We discussed their first record back in episode #92 of "For the Record," but their new, third album was too charming not to do another episode.

The second album from London's Black feminist punk trio Big Joanie is packed with songs both experimental and catchy, confidently using a wide range of musical styles to explore universal themes of longing for community.

Solo artists Katie Crutchfield (of Waxahatchee) and Jess Williamson came together during the pandemic to create Plains, a collaboration centered on gorgeous vocal harmonies and timeless country styles.

On Death Cab for Cutie's 10th studio album, the band makes a surprising return to form while also taking a leap forward with their sound. We discuss "Asphalt Meadows" in-depth in episode #176 of "For the Record."

Australian singer-songwriter Stella Donnelly took an unexpected turn by moving from the traditional indie rock instrumentation of her first album to composing her second album entirely on piano. We discuss "Flood" in-depth in episode #175 of FTR.

In her debut album, "Pure Chaos," Lou Roy embraces the ups and downs of life with clever lyrics, a powerful voice, and impeccable production. We discuss it in-depth in episode #174 of "For the Record."