22 years ago, Nashville’s Sam Powers (briefly in Superdrag and who played bass with Guided By Voices on the band’s 2003 European tour) recorded the six songs that comprise The Thousand Yard Stairs. We kid Powers, a true Southern gentleman, but the EP—mellow in spots, rocking in others—is a joy. Apart from drums and some guitar on two songs, Powers plays all the instruments; one, “Waiting On A Holiday,” features GBV wizard Doug Gillard and is the highlight. Rumor has it that Powers still has some songs in the vault, so stay tuned in 2048 for the sequel. [The Thousand Yard Stairs]—Matt Hickey