No Depression (Paperback)

Talk of international music often veers either toward vague “world music” or the ways in which artists around the globe interpret American music. No Depression, however, prefers to focus on how traditional music is being updated to inspire new art. So the summer international issue, “Over Yonder,” explores music culture around the world, seeking innovative artists who revitalize tradition for contemporary audiences. Among them: Aboriginal songwriters in Australia who blend indigenous music culture with acoustic guitars, a Chinese band that attacks ancient-style stringed instruments with punk-like fervor, an American expat who has found a new voice during a decade in Argentina, and more.

This issue also features the second installment of a year-long fellowship series by Sarah Smarsh about Dolly Parton’s career-spanning influence on working class women.

Long features:

Music life in Cuba (a photo essay) / Shedding light on China’s folk-punk scene with Abigail Washburn, Hanggai, and more / Q&A with David Broza on music in Israel and Palestine / How ancient Indian kirtan music has spread in the West / Celebrating music at Italy’s Umbria Jazz Festival

Short features:

Angelique Kidjo / Richard Shindell / Lau / Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Tinariwen, and more on touring in the US / Yirrmal, Gurrumul, and Archie Roach / Janka Nabay, Aurelio, and Ani Cordero / Bluegrass 45 / Afghanistan’s all-girl Ensemble Zohra / Amira Medunjanin / Parekh & Singh

Essays by Alison Brown, Dave Wilson of Chatham County Line, and Mary Gauthier

Art:

Cover by Craig Carry / Illustration by Drew Christie and Colin Sutherland / Photography by Jill Kettles and Steve Ford