Talk of international music often veers either toward vague “world music” or the ways in which artists around the world interpret American music. Here at No Depression, though, we prefer to focus on how traditional music is being updated to inspire new art. So, for our Summer international issue, “Over Yonder,” we’re exploring music culture around the world, seeking innovative artists who revitalize tradition for contemporary audiences. Among them: Aboriginal songwriters in Australia who blend indigenous music culture with acoustic guitars, a Chinese band that attacks ancient-style stringed instruments with punk-like fervor, an American expat who has found a new voice over a decade in Argentina, and so on. 

Long Features 

• Music life in Cuba (a photo essay)  
• Shedding light on China’s folk-punk scene with Abigail Washburn, Hanggai, and more  
• Q&A with David Broza on music in Israel and Palestine 
• How ancient Indian kirtan music has spread in the West  
• Celebrating music at Italy’s Umbria Jazz Festival

Short Features 

• Angelique Kidjo  
• Richard Shindell  
• Lau  
• Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Tinariwen, and more on touring in the US  
• Yirrmal, Gurrumul, and Archie Roach  
• Janka Nabay, Aurelio, and Ani Cordero  
• Bluegrass 45  
• Afghanistan’s all-girl Ensemble Zohra  
• Amira Medunjanin  
• Parekh & Singh 

Artist-Written Essays 

• Essays by Alison Brown, Dave Wilson of Chatham County Line, and Mary Gauthier 

Art/Photography 

Cover art by Craig Carry  
Illustrations by Drew Christie, Colin Sutherland, and Zoye Ruehl 
Photography by Jill Kettles, Steve Ford, and more