LHB’s Shorties (Josh Ritter, Foreign Born, and More)

The Louisville Courier-Journal profiles singer-songwriter Josh Ritter.

Ritter is a literate songwriter who makes smart use of historical references in his lyrics, befitting a graduate of Oberlin College, a refuge of Midwest creative types (and other singer-songwriters including Liz Phair). He's the son of two neuroscientists, and he fled to Oberlin from northwestern Idaho with the intent of joining the family business.

Decider New York interviews Foreign Born's Matt Popieluch.

D: Foreign Born does feel “very L.A.,” but it’s a hard thing to put a finger on. How would you describe that quality?

MP: I think Fleetwood Mac embodies L.A. in the way we would hope to, though I wouldn’t presume to say we’ve achieved that. Actually, whenever I think of Foreign Born in regard to the city, I picture David Hockney’s pool paintings. There are those bright, vibrant colors on the surface and a definite darkness lurking underneath.

NME lists 10 tracks you have to hear this week.

Slate offers the three reasons music magazines are dying.

Drowned in Sound reviews the Pitchfork Music Festival.

Lullabyes is sharing mp3s of 12 Rilo Kiley live performances. Find even more at the RKNet forum.

NPR's All Songs Considered's poll of readers' best songs of 2009 (so far) is finished.

The Rawking Refuses to Stop! lists the most anticipated albums of the second half of 2009.

Obits visit The Current studio for an interview and streaming performance.

Waxploitation is auctioning signed CDs and music memorabilia to benefit Darfur.

- David Gutowski