News about Loudon Wainwright III

Karly Hartzman doesn't believe in the hype. As the frontwoman for Asheville's indie rock band on Wednesday, she knows how the band's distinctive mix of face-melting shoegaze and twangy country has drew more attention with each performance since its 2018 debut. The quartet has had a steady output since launching a new album every year since their endearingly lo-fi sophomore effort, I Was Trying to Describe You to Someone. More eyes (and ears) on them than ever before, especially after their breakthrough Twin Plagues and its low-key but charming sequel 2022 covers album. All this new interest, however, doesn't make a difference to Hartzman. Via Zoom, she explains from her North Carolina house's porch. "I feel the same as before we were signed [with the illustrious indie name Dead Oceans] at least when it comes to the music and writing. I'm not worried about anyone other than the band. If everyone detests this album, I'd still be proud of it, and I'd keep doing what was next. I don't think I would change direction if people were like, "This sucks." So I'm glad people love it, but I would have done it the same way even if the public opinion was different."

ADRIAN THRILLS: This week, the Queen Of Pop celebrated her 64th birthday in a familiar style. She took a few spicy selfies on Instagram and held a party in a Sicilian palace. She's also geared up for the unveiling of a new remix album today, which reaffirms her desire to spend summer under a mirrorball.