During the weekend of August 21-22, 2010, shortly after Damien Jurado and Richard Swift collaborated on Damien’s record Saint Bartlett, they gathered with a 4-track recorder and a Coles 4038 ribbon microphone to create a collection of cover songs spanning from John Denver to Chubby Checker to Kraftwerk.

The timing couldn’t have been better. Other People’s Songs Vol 1 showcases the early framework of what would later mark a creative turning point for the duo, culminating in the release of Damien Jurado’s Maraqopa, the first installment in his Maraqopa trilogy, less than two years later. The opening drum hits of "Be Not So Fearful," the falsetto in "Sweetness," and the Spaghetti-Western swing of "Radioactivity" have since become signatures of the Jurado/Swift sound, but Other People’s Songs Vol 1 serves as a transitional piece, highlighting the evolution of their collaboration.

This covers album is an absolute gem, worthy of a prime spot in your collection. It’s like the friend who shows up at the party with all the best snacks—everyone loves it, and you secretly wish you could take credit for discovering it. Trust us, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it—an absolutely favorite around here.