Terry Gross

Ochs has one of the world's largest private collections of record covers. He has a new book collecting covers from the 1950s to the 1990s, "1000 Record Covers" (Taschen Publishers, Germany). He talks with Terry Gross about his favorite recordings though, and brings them for us to hear.

Garfield has reported on the oddities of America for "All Things Considered" and in his syndicated column. His new book "Waking Up Screaming from the American Dream" (Scribner) is a collection of stories about the bizarre measures people have taken to live the American dream.

The music of singer, songwriter, and guitarist Matthew Sweet is a mix of pop and alternative and has been likened to Revolver-era Beatles. His albums have enjoyed international critical and popular success. In his newest album, "Blue Sky on Mars" (Zoo Records), Sweet sings both lead and background vocals, as well as playing most of the guitars, keyboard, and bass.