This week’s Talkhouse Podcast episode features Okkervil River frontman Will Sheff in conversation with A.C. Newman, the lead singer and guitarist from the New Pornographers. The talk is a collaboration with the iconic Manhattan bookstore Strand Books, and was recorded live in their Rare Book Room to celebrate the release of Okkervil River’s new L.P., In the Rainbow Rain.

The old friends, occasional collaborators, and recent neighbors go deep into the writing, structuring and influences on Will’s new album. But they cover a lot more than that, including; predestination vs. free will; the joys and drawbacks of living in a political bubble; the magic of what A.C. calls “the nerd store;” and why the gig after New York City always sucks.

Check it out, and subscribe now to stay in the loop on future episodes of the Talkhouse Podcast.

—Elia Einhorn, Talkhouse Podcast host and producer

Today’s episode was recorded by Charles Mueller and co-produced by Mark Yoshizumi.