As was the case with Diamond Rugs’ 2012 self-titled debut record, much of the band’s sophomore album, Cosmetics, formed and grew in the studio. That’s an impressive feat, considering that Diamond Rugs is something of a weekender project for members of no fewer than five bands, all of whom keep moderate-to-ridiculous recording and touring schedules anyway: John McCauley and Robbie Crowell (both Deer Tick), Ian St. Pé (Black Lips), T. Hardy Morris (Dead Confederate), Bryan Dufresne (Six Finger Satellite) and the legendary Steve Berlin (Los Lobos, Blasters and about six dozen other outfits). The boys in the band will be guest editing magnetmagazine.com all week. Read our recent feature on them.
Berlin: My favorite (possibly) overlooked records of the last 12 months. I admittedly don’t get out much as I used to, so, if you are already tired of these, please forgive.
Barr Brothers Sleeping Operator
Definitely my most played record of the last year, so it must be my favorite. Employing a real harp, pedal-steel guitar and incredibly inventive songwriting, these guys make a stunning record that goes from country blues to Gnawa without forcing a single note.
The Notwist Close To The Glass
For a band whose native tongue isn’t English (they’re German), they sure write amazing songs. They have a way of incorporating synths and machines that make them sound utterly human. All their previous records are highly recommended as well, especially Neon Golden.
Matt Andersen Weightless
I freely admit I’m biased because I produced it, but fuck it. He’s a songwriter and singer of immense power who deserves a wider audience. If the world can call Sam Smith a soulful singer, then Matt certainly should get a listen, too.
Thundercat Apocalypse
Part of the Flying Lotus brigade, this is a shreddy record that somehow never loses the groove and, in the process, invents some new ones. It’s from 2013, but it’s new enough.
Hiatus Kaiyote Tawk Tomahawk
There’s something about Australian weirdoes that makes records super interesting and different (Tame Impala, Avalanches, UMO). Kinda similar to Thundercat in occasional shreddyness, but always in service to the song. Sonically astounding.
Video after the jump.
