Magnetic merger

Every so often, Swervedriver guitarist Adam Franklin surfaces from hiding, like a wanted man the authorities have been chasing for years. Now comes word the space-rock champion is teaming with Interpol drummer Sam Fogarino on a new project called Magnetic Morning.

Their self-titled EP, recorded with Claudius Mittendorfer, who engineered Interpol's latest release, Our Love to Admire, will fall to earth on April 19 — or as independent retailers call it, Record Store Day — and undoubtedly burn on re-entry.

A wizard with effects and distortion during his days with Swervedriver, the most rock-oriented of all the shoegazer bands of the early '90s, Franklin's otherworldly guitar work is one of the great hidden treasures of the music world. Do yourself a favor and pick up Raise or Mezcal Head, two of the best albums the '90s produced.

With Magnetic Morning, Franklin and Fogarino explore a dreamworld of ethereal, expansive soundscapes that unfold in astounding, cinematic beauty — "Don't Go To DreamState," "Cold War Kids Get Claudius," The Kinks cover "The Way Love Used To Be" and "Yesterday's Flowers" are highlights. To hear a taste of Magnetic Morning's debut, which comes out on the new L.A. indie label DH, visit www.myspace.com/magneticmorning.

Tour dates will be forthcoming. As for Fogarino, the guy's working overtime. In addition to extensive touring with Interpol, he's done some remixing for Nine Inch Nails. Dude really needs a hobby.