Several years ago k.d. lang sent an email to Neko Case and Laura Veirs on a whim. It read simply, "I think we should make a record together." Unsurprisingly, the two brilliant indie and cross-over talents said yes, case/lang/veirs was born. 'Atomic Number' is the first taste of their self-titled forthcoming debut, which was recorded over two and a half years in Portland with Tucker Martine behind the desk, due for release via ANTI- on 17 June. The result of their collaboration is a gorgeous mix of the three artists' unique understanding of song-craft: picking guitars and swelling strings (fans of Laura Veirs will recognise) provide the country and folk-tinged bed for almost call-and-response type vocal work, and a stunningly layered chorus, which adds a punchiness to proceedings. If this initial outing is anything to go by, the special project will yield a one-of-a-kind record and we can't wait to hear more. -G.O'B.