Covering Tracks: Lord RAJA

Covering Tracks is a regular series in which we ask our favorite producers and DJs to recommend ten new (and not so new) releases. This week’s selections were curated by a New York native who calls himself Lord RAJA. His debut album drops December 2 on Ghostly International.

Ramona Lisa – “Hissing Pipes at Dawn” [Terrible Records]

Maddening. Modern standalone, realized composition—observed terrestrially as a whisper from an origin that exists outside of linguistic and temporal contexts. I had the honor of seeing her perform this with original choreography. Hieroglyphic enchantment.

Tallesen – “Strike Silver, Love Green” [Software]

When Tallesen and I met at a really boring school, we immediately assumed a role as siblings, as we shared a mutual appetite for universal investigations through tangled mediums. I was making music on a custom made PC tower, and Cayman (Tallesen) expressed to me that he was interested in messing with sound. I already knew how gifted he was as a visual artist, so I figured his approach to sound would be just as natural and intuitive. I gave him my PC, and he took the sound libraries and programs to a whole new level. He is an all-around other worldly, inspiring artist. His upcoming LP on Software is great.

Kindness – “This Is Not About Us” [Female Energy]

This guy is just incredible. I discovered his music sophomore year of university, and now I’m looking forward to this LP. He inspires me, big time. Very kind and funky in person as well.

Heathered Pearls – “Raising Our Ashes” [Ghostly]

This track is too sick. It’s always a treat to see Heathered Pearls, whether he is performing or walking his dog. It’s an honor to work for him. Sometimes he yells at me on the phone.

Hailu Mergia – “Ambasel (El Guincho Club Alizé Edit)” [Awesome Tapes from Africa]

I guess I was catching some z’s. Quality as always.

Connan Mockasin – “I’m the Man, That Will Find You” [Phantasy Sound]

Real character.

Ariel Pink – “Put Your Number In My Phone” [4AD]

I love Ariel Pink. You really have to be a crazy genius to make some of the tracks he makes. I hope by the time I’m like, 30-something, I’m making shit like him. Whenever I’m real bored at a party, I hijack the system and put on “Round & Round” and I either dance or walk out.

Actress – “Gaze” [Werk Discs/Ninja Tune]

But of course.

Helado Negro – “Ojos Que No Ven” [Asthmatic Kitty]

This guy has had an exceptional output since the beginning—”Playas” is one of the greatest songs I’ve ever heard. His new record is just as phenomenal. When I finally met him, I was nerding out big time, and he gave me a bunch of cassettes.

Jeremiah Jae – “The Heat” [Warp]

Jeremiah Jae is in such a unique position as an artist. I enjoy his perspective, and I feel really connected to him. One day, we’re gonna unleash the tracks we’ve done together. It’s been a while since we’ve met up. I’m happy to say this his vocals will be featured on my debut LP.

Published October 03, 2014. Words by EB Team.