Due to some really, really dumb luck I had the fortune of running into Fugazi legend Ian MacKaye over the holidays. The brief meeting inspired me to check out some recent releases from Dischord Records, the D.C. label he started in 1980. And I’m glad I did because Faraquet’s anthology (1997–98) is just what I needed to take a trip down memory lane. I remember trying to play this on my guitar during ninth grade Jazz class…

Hot Chip has been up to some interesting things recently. Not only did they just release an EP featuring Robert Wyatt and Geese, but they also hooked up with Peter Gabriel to do a Vampire Weekend cover. Personally, “Made in the Dark” wins for me because it’s just such an elegant song with sneaky guitar swoons that get me every time. Add some Wyatt funktronic vocal stylings and you’ve got yourself a new makeout tune.

Am I the only one who thinks it’s funny for the frontman of a two-piece band to release a solo album? Ok, maybe I am. The Black Keys lead singer will be releasing Keep It Hid on February 10th, so consider yourself warned. You might get tired of listening to the Black Keys sound over and over, but this is truly Auerbach at his finest. Hopefully he keeps the distortion, wah-wahs and organs coming.

And the most random pick of the week goes to… Digable Planets. “Where I’m From” reminds me of a time when hip hop meant listening to smooth flow and even smoother jazz samples – god don’t you miss songs like this and Ahmad’s “Back in the Day?” You can guarantee this makes my New Years Eve party mix.