Andrew Bird keeps whistling against the darkness, and the Ax Man cometh for one more inning.

Eluvium creates more ‘Reality,’ and standup Pete Holmes dives into the heart of sex and spirituality.

Finding abundant ‘Proof of Life’ with Joy Oladokun, and getting wonderfully lost in the Tim Hecker machine.

Traveling light with Radnor and Lee, and how one writer crafts stories under music’s influence.

Eating the whole Cake, and looping through anxiety with a remarkable Italian composer.

Sifting through Feist’s “Multitudes,” and rocking out with Daisy Jones.

Following Deftones from start to finish, and understanding beauty with Zadie Smith.

Making progress with The Hold Steady, and stepping into “The Undertow.”

Returning to the wonder with Lonnie Holley, and learning to be a poverty abolitionist.

Getting red and white all over again with The White Stripes, and reading Mahogany Browne.