One of my favorite lesser-known bands is the "orchestral rock" group A Whisper in the Noise. (Yes I know you've never heard that name, so go read my intro before your little sister "discovers" them and embarasses you with her keen sense for cool new bands.) The good news is that the next album is coming out this spring. The even better news is that they are opening for Arab Strap on their North American tour. West coast shows in LA, SF, Portland, Seattle, and Vancouver BC. Then East from their hometown of Minneapolis all the way to Montreal, then South along the coast to Atlanta. Check their myspace page for details. I will be at the LA show March 23rd. As far as I can tell there is no bad news.