A keyboard with headphones in a tour bus: that’s how ‘Nootropics’ by Lower Dens was composed. One of the best albums of 2012 for us, the second instalment of their planned four-album cycle tackles themes such as the history of mankind and artificial intelligence, and is another work of monumental minimalism. The album is a grower, or as front woman Jana Hunter puts it: “You have to be paying attention.” As the numerous raving reviews of their Pukkelpop appearance this year will attest, that attention is largely rewarded in their live performances.

This year saw the release of Kiss The Anus Of A Black Cat's ominously titled fifth album 'Weltuntergangsstimmung' (Zealrecords). The band fronted by Stef Heeren, with a name that once figured in The Wire's top 10 of most absurd band names, has been praised by the fans and the press since their obscure beginnings. Their characteristic mix of folk and drone has undergone changes though, partly because of Heeren's acquisition of a Roland Juno 6. The latest record, also the second one to have been produced by Koen Gisen, will almost have you dance to its synths, drum computer and guitars!