Iron Wine

According to Marketa Irglova, her latest album is a direct result of her making a conscious decision to make music.

Make no mistake about it: this week's state of music is stronger than any State of the Union -- I don't care if Republicans and Democrats sit together at the prom.

Best known for his monster hit "You're Beautiful," international superstar James Blunt is back with a new album, Some Kind Of Trouble, which he discussed with me recently.

This week, we feature music by Iron & Wine, the Hotrats, Ike and Tina Turner, Foghat, Pegi Young, and more.

After seeing some of Gov. Jan Brewer's mind-blowing meltdown performance during her debate with Terry Goddard, here's a playlist for a woman who lost her head, and a state that seems bent on doing the same.

This week's column features music by the B-52's, The Smashing Pumpkins, Nina Simone, Jeff Buckley, The Wallflowers and Pink Floyd.

So while we get excited about Conor Oberst and Iron & Wine, can't we make a little room for Maria Muldaur, Irma Thomas, and Taj Mahal without losing street cred? I say "YES!"