Bill Callahan and Edsel Axle

Bill Callahan, born in Maryland, emerged from the late '80s indie rock scene as Smog. Known for his contemplative style, he explores American West imagery. Albums like "Woke on a Whaleheart" showcase his evolution, blending genres like country and soul. Collaborators include Neil Hagerty and John Congleton. His intimate works like "Shepherd in a Sheepskin Vest" mark personal growth, while collaborations with Will Oldham highlight his creative range.

Edsel Axle is the instrumental electric guitar project of North Carolina's Rosali Middleman. Known for cosmic-minded compositions, her solo work features meditative Americana and psychedelic energy. The project's album, "Variable Happiness," showcases her unique guitar style, recorded to a four-track cassette rig. Popular tracks include "Her Wind Horse" and "Some Answer."