- The returns of several artists we hadn't hear from in a while, including The National, The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, Grizzly Bear, !!!, Chromatics (featured in Twin Peaks' return episode), and Don Bryant, who's dedicated his first soul release in over 45 years to his wife, the famed soul singer Ann Peebles.
- A number of new names here announcing their arrival in impressive fashion. See: Aldous Harding, Hoops, Bedouine, Blue House, Korgy & Bass, and Girl Ray, among others.
- The first song from the Fairport Convention-referencing Offa Rex, who is singer-songwriter Olivia Chaney backed up by the whole of The Decemberists. "Which Will" is Amber Arcades' very different take on the Nick Drake classic, from her new EP "Cannonball." Beach Fossils' "Tangerine," from their upcoming "Somersault," is not a Led Zeppelin cover, but features Slowdive's Rachel Goswell on vocals. Baio is the solo project of Vampire Weekend bassist Chris Baio. Lo Tom is the super group from members of Pedro the Lion and Starflyer (the history is a bit complicated, but here's a handy flow chart).
