Caught in the net: Ryan's porn again with punk band

Ryan Adams has formed a punk trio called Pornography, with singer Leah Hennessey and Johnny T Yerington (Getty Images)

Alt-country star Ryan Adams (pictured) has, over the years, released metal, hard rock and hip-hop among his prolific output, so his fans have become accustomed to the unexpected. Now it has emerged that he has formed a punk trio called Pornography, with singer Leah Hennessey and Johnny T Yerington.

Their 7-inch vinyl debut, 7 Minutes in Heaven, is out on 20 April on PAX-AM, Adams' own label, and you can hear this blast of power-punk (its opening track) “Last Nite at the Opera” at http://tinyurl.com/caqmmay. Anyone not keen can rest assured that Adams' upcoming 14th studio album and follow-up to Ashes & Fire will be released in autumn.

Sound of Silence from Savages

Post-punk all-girl London band Savages release their debut album, Silence Yourself, on 6 May on Matador Records and singer Jehnny Beth's record label Pop Noire, and have said of it: “Music and words are aiming to strike like lightning, like a punch in the face... This album is to be played loud in the foreground.” True to their word, the song “She Will”, previewed on YouTube at http://tinyurl.com/clrkrvt, is fierce, dark and menacing.

When singing goes swimmingly

The Fiery Furnaces singer Eleanor Friedberger releases her second solo album in June, and it was recorded with a twist. The album's title is Personal Record, not just because it features love songs, but also because she swam at least 20 lengths before each vocal was recorded. “I find that the vocals can be as good as possible,” she explains. “I decided to use swimming as a metaphor for an emotional test,” The album cover is a photo of Friedberger in the pool where she completed her laps. Download the punchy, summery “Stare at the Sun” for free at www.eleanorfriedberger.com.

Joyful news for country-folk couple

Big things are expected from Shovels & Rope, an American husband-and-wife duo, who have been likened to a countrified White Stripes for their raw, minimalist blend of country, punk, blues and bluegrass. Their debut album, O Be Joyful, is set for 6 May, with a gig at London's Dingwalls on 10 May. Their next single can be heard at http://tinyurl.com/br58b63.