In an extended-play episode, D.C. singer-songwriter Heather Mae discusses the roles mental illness, body-image issues and self-acceptance have played in her own music and the songs that inspire her. To hear all of the music in this episode, visit the Spotify Formative Tracks playlist.

Jazz vocalist Integriti Reeves shares some big news, explains why she has a particular fondness for Joni Mitchell and gets a tad emotional about a Disney tune. To hear this complete episode, listen on Mixcloud. And to catch the songs in this episode, stream the Formative Tracks Spotify playlist.

Austin Blanton, bassist for D.C. modern folk group Near Northeast, discusses Billy Bragg and Bjork, while providing a new method for listening to recordings. To hear the full episode, click here.

Sasha Elisabeth, lead vocalist and songwriter for ethereal D.C. group Lotion Princess, talks Rilo Kiley, Bob Marley and the meaning behind her tattoo. To hear this complete episode, visit Mixcloud.

Andrew Grossman, lead vocalist of D.C. folk-pop outfit The North Country, shares his love of They Might Be Giants and divulges his deepest thoughts on social media. To hear this complete episode, visit Mixcloud.