Various "African Scream Contest" (2008)

This is a rebuttal to everyone who thinks that all African music in the 1970s sounded like Fela Kuti.  While certainly there are some similarities, this compilation is a reminder that there were many many sounds at the time.  And many that were just as exciting and vital as Egypt 70. 

Various "1970s Algerian Proto-Rai Underground"

Like so many of Sublime Frequencies' releases, this one is problematic in the way that it allows for a certain amount of noncontextual tourism.  Just look at the cover image:  guns, girls, exoticism... it's a heady blend ripe for appropriation. 

Hush Arbors "Hush Arbors" (2008)

A project of former (?) Six Organs of Admittance sideman Keith Wood, Hush Arbors plays a sort of dreamy hazy psychedelica very similar to some of the output of 6OA.  Perhaps too dreamy for some, I would recommend this.

Barbara Manning "Super Scissors" (2007)

This is a remastered reissue of Manning's long out of print early releases.  These recordings have an unmistakably 90s indie sound.  Take that for what it is, because "Super Scissors" exemplifies both the best & the worst of the time.

Ry Cooder "Into the Purple Valley" (1971)

Why isn't this album entered into the conversation when people talk about the early predecessors of Americana?  You hear about the Band, Dylan, Byrds, etc, but this album should be in the conversation as well.  Filled with interpretations of standards and country hits, this is an early conceptual look at the Great Depression and Dust Bowl.

The Bug "London Zoo" (2008)

This sounds like nothing more than the soundtrack to the gritty dystopian future that we were promised so many years ago.  Rough, paranoid, new and unfamiliar even as it sounded obviously like things you've heard before. 

Espers "Espers" (2004)

Does the cover really say it all?  While "The Weed Tree" was so loaded with covers that it put their influences out where they couldn't be missed, this initial release keeps those influences implied.  While probably not as strong as some subsequent releases, "Espers" is a strong effort right out of gate.  Highly recommended for those interested in this variety of folk rock.