Down by the river

Away from his day job as The National’s lugubrious frontman, MATT BERNINGER has reached back into his Ohio upbringing for a ruminative new solo record. But behind the childhood tales of gang fights, drowned train cars and Christmas tree farms lurks midlife melancholy. “I’m writing about trying to understand my own fear,” he tells Laura Barton

When sudden tragedy struck, NATALIE BERGMAN found solace in the New Mexico desert. Shedding indie rock for psychedelic gospel-soul, music played a big part in her healing – while her latest album finds fresh hope in new life. “People form bands because we’re lost,” she tells Kevin EG Perry. “We’re like: ‘Hello, we’re looking for our home here on Earth.’”

When Rivers Meet: oozing star aura. When ...

Before The Future LOST SOUND TAPES/SELF-RELEASED 8/10

The Dead Daisies Lookin’ For Trouble SPV ...

Meet the Neil Young-influenced Canadian looking to spread his success outside Canada.