What? Best known for his 1999 project 52 Songs, for which he recorded and released a track online every week for a year, Michael Zapruder is certainly prolific -- but it's his songs' quality that's noteworthy. With the recent release of his new album, Dragon Chinese Cocktail Horoscope, Zapruder expands on his lilting, dreamlike folk.

What? When nine Staten Island, NY, rebels united in the name of hip-hop and brotherhood in 1992, a new musical dynasty descended on the music world. From Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) to the death of the ever-eccentric group's linchpin Ol' Dirty Bastard, the collective has weathered ups and downs, and unity and division too many times to count.

What? Not only is Alaska in Winter more deserving of the title "maverick" than its eponymous state's governor, the electronic project is also far more versed in foreign policy.

What? New Zealand-born popstress Ladyhawke is revamping the synth-driven '80s sound of Cyndi Lauper and Pat Benatar with sharper beats and guitars, glossier production, and new millennial stomp and sass.

What? For 30 years legendary Canadian hardcore outfit D.O.A. has released a steady stream of records that marry Black Flag's raw power, Bad Brains' knee-buckling speed, and Minor Threat's lyrical intelligence with the angst of the Sex Pistols and political messages of early Clash singles.

What? After Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain's tragic suicide in 1994, many of the decade's second-tier grunge and alt-rock bands faded away -- and yet, throughout the years, York, PA's Live has endured. From their eight-time-platinum 1994 breakthrough Throwing Copper to their 2006 set Songs from Black Mountain, lead singer Ed Kowalczyk and Co. have maintained steady momentum through the ever-changing musical climate. This week, Live celebrate nearly 20 years of solidarity -- and success -- with the Live at the Paradiso -- Amsterdam DVD.