Sparklehorse's Sad & Beautiful World

Dark Night of the Soul was originally given a limited self-funded run of 5000 copies as a book. Its commercial release this summer has added poignance since the news of Linkous' recent suicide. "I did get to know him a little," says Mercer. "A very reserved person I would say; it's very sad to comprehend that sort of misery." Here's a brief guide to the plangent, lo-fi highlights of a tragic life.

Vivadixiesubmarinetransmissionplot (1995)
The debut, which eerily combined dead of night floorboard creaking and angry guitar thrashing, was framed by Linkous' melodious yet bitter acknowledgement of his own brittleness. Not a commercial success, it was critically well-received, prompting Radiohead to invite him on their next tour.
Listen to: Someday I will treat you good

Good Morning Spider (1998)
While on tour with Yorke and co in 1996, Linkous a took a cocktail of alcohol, valium and anti-depressants which caused a heart attack that left him tecnically dead for some minutes and wheelchair bound for six months thereafter. This second album is a reaction to this episode, flitting between dreamlike states of innocent otherworldiness, and resolute defiance in the face of the darkness. Sonically diverse, with a distinct flavour of ambient electronica.
Listen to: Ghost Of His Smile

Dreamt for Light Years in the Belly of a Mountain (2006)
Fourth album, first Danger Mouse collaboration, and Tom Waits follows up his cameo on 2001's It's a Wonderful Life with a rousing reprisal. Possibly not as progressive as his early career trajectory suggested. It is, on the whole, a very serene work, suggesting a certain (although perhaps temporary) peace of mind.
Listen to: Knives of Summertime

Dark Night of the Soul (2009/2010)
A hugely ambitious multimedia art project, this collaboration with Danger Mouse, David Lynch, Vic Chestnutt (RIP), Julian Casablancas, Iggy Pop and many more was shelved as a consequence of a record label dispute. Wryly, Danger Mouse announced that when it did hit the shops, it would be in the form of a blank CDR, for burning the leaked versions onto.
Listen to (when it's released, naturally): Daddy's Gone