We always hear about artists who take breaks from working with their bands to embark on a solo career, but Japan-born singer/songwriter Caroline Lufkin (known just as Caroline) did things the other way around. She took a five-year hiatus after releasing her debut solo album to tour the world and record several albums with Mice Parade. Now, at long last, her sophomore album, Verdugo Hills, will see the light of day January 25 on Temporary Residence. Caroline says of this mix tape she made for MAGNET, “This was inspired by the last couple months of my life, while I’ve been busy wrapping up my new record and touring with Mice Parade. When I started to make this mix tape, I thought, ‘This isn’t good. I haven’t been listening to new music lately.’ Then, I dug my iPod out of my bag and looked at some playlists and realized that I do in fact still listen to loads of music. It just happens to be the music of friends around me or music that finds me naturally.”
“Swimmer” (download):
https://magnetmagazine.com/audio/Swimmer.mp3
Mice Parade “Sneaky Red”
I was a huge fan of Mice Parade before joining the band. Since my duties on this song are minimum, when we play this tune, I get to mostly just watch the rest of the band wail away. I’m blown away each time. They are lucky that I am a shy girl or else I’d be wildly dancing onstage, making a fool of us. This song reminds me why I put myself through these punk-rock tours. Video
Dan Lippel “Gigue”
Bach + Dan Lippel = pure beauty. I feel that classical music is the foundation of my being, which is probably why Dan Lippel is my favorite musician in the world right now. He is classically trained with a punk-rock flair. The combination is unheard of and absolutely breathtaking. Audio
Jeff Buckley “Hallelujah”
One of the most beautiful performances captured on tape and my favorite song to sing during sound check. Cannot give Jeff Buckley full credit for this one. Leonard Cohen is the master of lyrics, which brings me to … Video
Leonard Cohen “The Stranger Song”
First of all, how the hell does he remember 10 stanzas of lyrics? His delivery of lyrics through static, concentrated singing and repetitive melodies is so effective. Jaw-dropping. Video
Silje Nes “Ruby Red”
Silje Nes is my new best friend. Although her music is gorgeous with sparkling, dark soundscapes, I just want to talk about how much I loved having her on tour with Mice Parade. Having her on tour added a girly, giggly, gossipy element. Don’t you love it when not only the music is wonderful but the person who makes it is?! Video
Her Space Holiday “Sleepy Tigers”
Earlier this year, Her Space Holiday and I played a show here in Tokyo and got to be pals. Since then, he’s replaced my early-Weezer obsession and we’ve been getting involved in each others’ musical projects. Oh yeah, and his unreleased new album is his best by far, in my opinion. Video
Rory Vallis “Sister”
Rory Vallis, a collaborator and guitarist I work with, is one of my favorite songwriters. He’s known for his powerful Thom Yorke-esque voice, interesting chord progressions and fascinating live performances where he builds songs on one loop pedal. Audio
Olivia “Cupid”
This is my favorite tune from my new keyboard player/back-up singer: my sister! It’s actually a collaboration between my sis and bro. We’ve been getting to know each other’s music very well now that we’re living in the same country. Video
Blonde Redhead “Black Guitar”
I have all their records and know every song. This record was one that came out while I was on tour and I think I listened to it almost every day while in the van. I must have been sending out good vibes in the air because soon after I got an email asking to open for them. Video
