In This Episode: Longtime New Order bassist Peter Hook reflects back on his first band: the short-lived yet influential post-punk group Joy Division. The band existed for less than three years -- and its story is tragic. But its influence on music over the last thirty-odd years has been enormous.

Plus: the powerful blues singer Trixie Whitley, daughter of the late musician Chris Whitley, brings her triumphant debut album to the studio. Watch a video of her performing the song 'Gradual Return.'

It's the most wonderful tiiiiiime of the month: New Releases.  Experience the pick of the piles, and the very best in digital promos on this New Sounds program.  There's new music from finger-style guitarist William Tyler, from his latest record, "Impossible Truth," along with acoustic folk and "systems music" from the English quartet, Spiro.  Also, listen to something from pianist Matthew Shipp, and a dance score from the composer/saxophone player Ken Field.  Plus, new music from Alexander Berne and the Abandoned Orchestra.  And more. 

Al Gore explains what six key things will shape the future—from shifting military power to scientific breakthroughs to climate change. Sam Roberts marks the 100th anniversary of Grand Central Terminal. Peter Hook, a founding member and bass player for Joy Division, takes us behind the scenes of the band’s three years together. And we’ll start off our show with Fabien Cousteau and marine toxicologist Dr. Susan Shaw, who discuss the biggest threats to the health of the world’s oceans and waterways.

Besides drummer jokes, there might be almost as many viola jokes tied for the lead in musical humor.  We'll put all that aside for this New Sounds program, where the viola takes center stage, not necessarily as a solo instrument in a concerto or a chamber setting.  Hear new works for viola, some for viola & electronics, and viola d'amore.  From a forthcoming record by new music champion Nadia Sirota, listen to a piece by Missy Mazzoli, "Tooth And Nail." 

Pianist Ah Ruem Ahn recently won the 2012 Paloma O’Shea Santander International Piano Competition. On Thursday, Jan. 31, she makes her American debut at Carnegie’s Zankel Hall. 

In This Episode: Rock began as the ultimate expression of youth, but musicians in their 60s and 70s are having a moment. In the last year we’ve heard from the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, and even David Bowie. Billboard editor Joe Levy ponders when, if ever, are you too old to rock?

Plus, Jennie C. Jones, an artist based in Brooklyn, is the winner of the 2012 Wein Prize, one of the most prestigious awards in American visual arts. She tells us how music -- specifically jazz -- plays a central role in her work.

And, cult songwriter Robyn Hitchcock, star of the Jonathan Demme film Storefront Hitchcock, discusses his favorite cinematic moments from the other Hitchcock -- Alfred.

Hear works for electric guitar on this New Sounds program, including music by Bryce Dessner (of the National and Clogs) and Glenn Branca (the leader of many guitar armies.)  Plus, listen to a piece by Nick Didkovsky from a private recording at a panel held in Philadelphia, and something from Steven Mackey as well.

In This Episode: the growing conflict in Mali has had an affect on the country’s vibrant music scene -- from festival cancellations to a complete ban on all forms of music in the northern portion of the nation. We hear recent songs that have been recorded as a form of protest, and we check in with a journalist who was recently there.

And, writer and historian Elijah Wald joins us to discuss co-authoring singer and guitarist Dave Van Ronk's memoir, The Mayor of MacDougal Street, which serves as the basis for the forthcoming Coen Brothers' movie, Inside Llewyn Davis.

Plus, the young Danish band Iceage plays a raw, punk set live in the studio.