Whenever the moon is just right, the Vague Panther picks his favorite MP3s from the web to bring you the “In the Know” series. If you’ve got a tip that might pique his interest email him at vaguepanther(at)strangerdance.com.

Portland’s Y La Bamba pairs an experimental folk sound with the stunning vocals of lead singer, Luz Elena. Their 2008 album, Alida St., is a slept-on gem that fans of CocoRosie and Devendra Banhart should check out.

Take a listen to the track “Fasting in San Francisco” or hear the whole album over yonder.

Adding to the pile of slept-on releases is Venice is Sinking’s AZAR. The Athens, GA band features an ambient, focused experimental sound that’s something like Broken Social Scene + Yo La Tengo.

If that sounds interesting, pick up AZAR first and then grab their recent EP Okay, which features alternate versions of tracks “Ryan’s Song” and “Okay.” Both are available for purchase on the band’s website.

Credit The Fader for this one. Tamaryn makes quality pot-pop that reminds me a little bit of Jesus and the Mary Chain – in other words, a really washy feel with booming drum echoes.

“Mild Confusion” is part of her recent 7″ that’s available through True Panther Sounds (and Matador). We’ll keep you posted of any upcoming full-length releases.