The annual Oxford American (“The Southern Magazine of Good Writing”) has just published its annual Music Issue, this year focusing on music from Mississippi. Always a great read — and listen. Its accompanying CD is usually a gem of diversity (and excellent music, of course).

This year’s issue features the above-mentioned Howlin’ Wolf on the cover (with article on him by Peter Guralnick), plus articles by Elijah Wald (on X-rated blues lyrics), William Gay on Mississippi John Hurt, Roy Blount Jr, Nick Hornby and many more.

It’s not always easy to find… those stores that carry are often sold out quickly. Soundscapes on College is usually your best bet.