Spy Fiction, Disco Revolution

Studio 360

This week, it feels like the 1970s all over again. Eastern European spies grab headlines and flamboyant disco stars top the charts. Kurt Andersen talks with Alan Furst, author of the new thriller Spies of the Balkans. And a professor explains how disco changed music and American society way more than we think. Plus, the experimental bands Matmos and So Percussion get together, and music happens when they break out a cactus and a bucket of water.

Tell us about your experience accessing The World

We want to hear your feedback so we can keep improving our website, theworld.org. Please fill out this quick survey and let us know your thoughts (your answers will be anonymous). Thanks for your time!