Richard Buckner - "Loaded at the Wrong Door"

Listening to the first verse of this song lumber forward with all instruments perfectly in line, you can’t possibly be prepared for the chorus that awaits you in which everything spreads out on a bed of synth, the bass steps out of line, plays counterpoint to the vibraphone (so much power in the mere addition of one quarter note).

Every instrument is used sparingly, except Buckner’s weary voice. His vocals are warm, but removed - a fire seen through a delicate fabric. He sings with cobwebs in his throat. He is not in the least bashful about vocal flourishes, rarely limiting himself to one note per syllable. He’s the Mariah Carey of alt-country. [Buy]

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John McGlinchey - "Spider"

“Spider” is a playful song, in the way that the Unicorns were a playful band. That is, the song is playful, but not silly. Playful, but still serious, dark, spooky. It takes bizarre turns, follows unexpected, treacherous paths into dark woods and pitch-black back alleys. The off-kilter chord changes, guitar digressions, and multi-tracked vocal experimentation are reminiscent of Syd Barrett.

OK, but who is John McGlinchey?

John McGlinchey plays all of the instruments on “Spider.”

John McGlinchey emailed me this song a few days ago. His email was four lines long. It was at least curt, and at most hostile. He did not mention whether or not “Spider” is from an album, nor did he provide a website. He is pretty much unGoogle-able. He is a mysterious psychedelic troubadour who inspires fear in my tender heart. Say his name three times, I dare you.