Megafaun has released three albums since they formed from the ashes of DeYarmond Edison back in 2006. However, it's the Durham, North Carolina/Los Angeles, California, group's self-titled fourth album, released in September on Hometapes, that has earned them a fresh start as a band. They visited FUV's Studio A for a session.

Laura Marling's first two albums garnered her critical huzzahs, Mercury Prize nominations and even a Brit Award, but her third release, the astonishing A Creature I Don't Know, is not only her masterpiece to date, but one of the best albums of the year.

Singer and songwriter Sharon Van Etten quietly released one of the more extraordinary albums of the last year, the mutable and deeply moving Epic, which not only showcased her knack for textured yet organic composition, but her ferocious, pining vocals. She chatted with The Alternate Side over email while in London and updated us on her road trip, her work with The National's Aaron Dessner on her third album and how she plans on surviving SXSW in a month.

Genre-defying musician and theatrical innovator Laurie Anderson has been one of New York's most influential artists, experimental or otherwise, for four decades. She talks here with Kara Manning.

New Zealand's punchy popsters Lawrence Arabia, who will be touring with Crowded House this summer, dropped by Studio A during a recent stop in New York.

Shearwater began as a side project of Okkervil River members Will Sheff and Jonathan Meiburg. Over time the two decided to part ways, Will remaining with Okkervil River and Jonathan focusing on Shearwater.

Philadelphia's own grass roots rockers Dr. Dog released their sixth album Shame, Shame last month. The Alternate Side caught up with bassist and co-founder Toby Leaman in Austin - literally in an alley behind a venue - and he revealed what he thinks is part of the band's appeal and longevity.

Discussing the bandmates' deep affection for one another, the mysteries of Conor Oberst's basement and the unique camaraderie (fueled by sparkling water) which shaped their debut album.