Since Maraqopa came out yesterday, I thought this would be a good opportunity to plug the interviews I did with Damien Jurado and Richard Swift for my “day job.” (That’s in quotes because it’s actually a nighttime gig…irony, right?)

During the FPK After Dark conversations, a number of topics were discussed. We talked about everything from Swift’s time in Starflyer 59 to Jurado’s love for the Grateful Dead. And no, that’s not a typo.

We also talked at length about Maraqopa and the nuances of their relationship in the studio. Plus Swift used the term “grown ass woman” while discussing Captain Beefheart. That counts for something.

:: First those damn Black Eyed Peas ruined music. Then they ruined the Super Bowl. Now they’re ruining school.

:: The National is curating another album for charity. This time, it’s… wait for it… a Grateful Dead cover album. “It’s not going to be like jam bands cover the Dead,” bassist Scott Devendorf admitted. “We’re also trying to think of unusual [acts].” Hmm, like Weird Al or Ray Stevens? I sure hope so.

:: We’re finally getting a new Toxic Holocaust album.

:: We’re also finally getting a new gummy brain stuffed in a gummy skull that contains a USB drive with Flaming Lips song on it.

:: Go get a free ticket to Austin Psych Fest.

:: Goldblum at Coachella! And yes, that’s all real performance footage.

:: Oh snap, Apple might beat Google to the music cloud thing deal.

These United States released a new album today, Everything Touches Everything. And not only did the band allow Buzzgrinder to stream the whole thing today, but the guys were also kind enough to take over posting duties for the day. So the staff gets to sit at home and eat too many caramel-glazed, custard-filled donuts.

Seven records I bought unheard last tour — total price: $10

1) Gloria Lynne – Gloria Blue
I’d never even heard of Gloria Lynne, and there’s not even a picture or a date on this record. The song choices are mostly well-known standards, but she’s actually an excellent singer, and the arrangements are better than average. I’ll most certainly be seeking out more of her material.

2) Doug Sahm – Hell of a Spell
For some reason, ever-present organist Augie Meyers is nowhere to be found. Despite that, a mighty Doug Sahm turns in a great collection of blues. Recorded by Dan Healy (of Grateful Dead fame), it’s a tight, slick-sounding set. And despite the absence of recognizable players and a few questionable synths, it’s a gem of a record. Why Sahm isn’t a household name will always remain a mystery to me.

3) Duke Ellington – The Duke Plays Ellington
Duke Ellington solo piano — accompanied by minimal bass and drums. Different from any Ellington I’ve ever heard, and the perfect late night/early morning listen.

Read more about the albums I bought unheard last tour.

If you happen to be a Grateful Dead fan, then you’re smarter than a Lil Wayne fan. But not so fast Mr. Beaded Leather Vest. You’re not as smart as a Ben Folds fan. Or at least that’s what a study by some Caltech student says.

My question is this: What about Animal Collective or Weird Al? I know there’s not much of a difference between the two, after all.