8. Chris CohenOvergrown Path
I was trying to at least include some contemporary stuff. Chris Cohen was in a band called Deerhoof, which is probably my favourite contemporary band. I love them for their live performances. They’re the best live band I’ve ever seen. Without wanting to sound like a music snob, I’m just so blown away by their musicianship. I got to know Chris through touring with Deerhoof. I just think this is a little mini-masterpiece. He gave me the mp3s and I would find myself listening to it for hours. It was just on, all the time. A song like ‘Heart Beat’ – in my mind, he’s trying to make a Beach Boys album. The arrangements are incredible. He’s a really gifted musician and even though it sounds almost simple, it’s actually quite complicated stuff. A lot of musician friends of mine are really interested in that record and how he made it.