Last year, the Big Ears Music Festival raised eyebrows after rounding up the likes of Antony and the Johnsons, Negativland, Matmos, and Dan Deacon and bringing them to Knoxville, Tennessee for its inaugural incarnation.

Building on that success, organizers behind the three-day festival have returned for 2010 with an even more mind-numbing lineup. After all, Vampire Weekend, Joanna Newsom, St. Vincent, and The xx will head the second annual Big Ears, set to take place from March 26-28 in downtown Knoxville. Also set to appear are Andrew W.K., The Ex, My Brightest Diamond, DJ/Rupture (both in the form of a solo set and performance with Andy Moor), jj, and the 802 Tour, which features Nico Muhly, Doveman, and Sam Amidon with Nadia Sirota.

What’s more, as previously announced, visionary American minimalist composer Terry Riley has been announced as this year’s artist in residence. Celebrating his 75th birthday in 2010, several of Riley’s compositions will be performed throughout the weekend, including an all-star ensemble for his seminal In C and performances by the composer himself.

And if that wasn’t enough, The National’s Bryce Dessner has signed on this year as a curator for the festival. He’s involved in selecting artists to perform during the weekend, commissioning new work, and conceiving of several unique programs.

Tickets for individual concerts and events will go on sale in early January. The Inner Ear Weekend Festival Pass goes on sale Friday, December 11, at 10:00am EST. The limited edition pass offers premium access to all Big Ears happenings throughout the entire weekend (subject to available capacity) as well as exclusive invitations and access to select special events. Buy ‘em here.