Smoking Section Exclusive: Listen to Handpicked Music from the Black Keys' Upcoming Projects

Carney was introduced to the Royal Bangs after the band sent him a link to their MySpace page. "I'm usually grossed out by the music I hear, and that's kind of what I was expecting. But they're really good."

Carney's Pick: "Cat Swallow"

Beaten Awake are all "really talented dudes who are 33 and live like they're still 18," Carney says. "That's pretty much what I've been doing, you know."

Carney's Pick: "Goin' Nowhere"

Also on Carney's label: fellow Akronites Houseguest.

Carney's Pick: "Midieval Affaire"

Texas quartet Hacienda gave Auerbach a demo several years ago that "blew my fucking mind." "They're Mexican-Americans who are obsessed with the Beach Boys," he says. "I told everybody about them" — including Doctor Dog, who guest on the album.

Auerbach's Pick: "Shake Ya"

Cincinnati rockers Buffalo Killers are another band Auerbach produced.

Auerbach's Pick: "Get Together Now Today"

After Auerbach's dad introduced him to the music of 18-year-old Jessica Lea Mayfield two years ago, Auerbach contacted her and the pair started recording her "super dark" bluegrass music immediately after meeting.

Auerbach's Pick: "We've Never Lied"