Rodriguez

Sixto Diaz Rodriguez could've been a contender. The singer-songwriter, who can be described as a more streetwise and less fanciful version of Donovan, released two brilliant psych-tinged folk albums in the late '60s and early '70s. Virtually unnoticed during his time, the Detroit native became a minor cult figure in Australia and South Africa almost a decade later, on account of being played religiously by a handful of radio DJs. Coming From Reality isn't quite the stunning revelation that was last year's reissue of Rodriguez' heart-stopping debut, Cold Fact, but it is definitely a lost gem. The melodies are substantial and satisfying, the lyrics are socially conscious and trippy — no surprise, given the era — and the man's effortless coolness cannot be quantified. It's a damn shame that other guy effectively eclipsed Rodriguez, Donovan and other genius minds of a similar ilk during their musical prime. But here's to second chances.