REISSUE: Tony Bennett – MTV Unplugged

 

The 90’s were a crazy time!  College dorm rooms and teenage bedrooms were plastered with posters depicting everything from Bob Marley to the Rat Pack.  Lollapalooza and festivals like it created an eclectic sense of style pre-internet.  Likewise, MTV also showcased different musical acts that at first, some may have thought were “uncool”.  And that is how we got a legendary MTV Unplugged performance from Tony Bennett, a 67-year old (at the time) jazz and pop standards crooner. 

In case you missed it, Legacy Recordings issued Tony Bennett’s Grammy-winning MTV Unplugged album on vinyl for the first time ever on Record Store Day this past April.  The 2LP set pressed onto black vinyl may still be available at your local record store.     

Recorded live in New York City in April of 1994, Tony Bennett was backed by the Ralph Sharon Trio - featuring bassist Doug Richeson, drummer Clayton Cameron and pianist Sharon – and assisted by special guest vocalists Elvis Costello (on “They Can’t Take That Away From Me”) and a duet with K.D. Lang (“Moonglow”).  Over the course of 21 tracks, Bennett showcased his smooth vocals and unique cadence as he put his own spin on The Great American Songbook, with classics such as, “Fly Me To The Moon”, “It Had To Be You”, “Rags To Riches”, “Old Devil Moon”, and “It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing”.  The set is highlighted by two songs that are synonymous with Bennett himself, with the melancholic “I Left My Heart In San Francisco” and peppy “Steppin’ Out With My Baby”, taken from his album of the same title, released just a year before.  

Ok, so maybe Tony Bennett on MTV wasn’t the epitome of cool to every teenager in 1994, but this 15 year old at the time fell in love with his performance on the Jon Stewart Show, begged for a cassette copy of Steppin’ Out for Christmas that year and set his VCR to record his MTV Unplugged performance.  So, I for one was excited to get this vinyl copy of Tony Bennett MTV Unplugged! 

Watch “Fly Me To The Moon (In Other Words)” here:

REISSUE: Alice In Chains – Alice In Chains (30th Anniversary)

The Seattle grunge rock band’s self-titled third album was released 30 years ago and in celebration, Columbia/Legacy has recently reissued the album on limited edition highlighter-yellow double vinyl that looks and sounds amazing! 

Led by the singles, “Heaven Beside You”, “Grind” and “Again”, the album was originally released in 1995 and would end up being the last album to feature original lead vocalist Layne Staley, who passed in 2002.  Though standout tracks such as the aptly-titled fan favorite “Sludge Factory” and the churning “Grind” bring the expected heaviness, the self-titled album saw Staley, Jerry Cantrell, Mike Inez and Sean Kinney tone that down slightly, to feature the more mellow acoustic-driven sound of their successful EPs, Jar Of Flies and Sap. The band was able to create a sound that incorporated both sides of the band seamlessly, with “Heaven Beside You” the perfect example, with its acoustic blues rock groove dissolving into a swirl of distorted riffs and fractured guitar solos alongside Staley and Cantrell’s trademark vocal harmonies and moody melodies.  Likewise, the lyrical honesty and heaviness remains as Staley battles addiction, depression, spirituality and relationships across the album’s twelve tracks. 

Alice In Chains’ third and final album with its original lineup is bittersweet as it documents a band that was fracturing under the weight of addiction but this new 30^th anniversary edition shines a new light on these songs that are deep with emotion and the perfect, total amalgamation of the AiC sound.

For more info: https://aliceinchains.com/

Watch the video for “Grind” here:

REISSUE: The Cranberries – Uncertain EP

 

Fans of The Cranberries have had it pretty good lately with the recent 30^th anniversary deluxe reissue of No Need To Argue and the long-awaited release of their amazing MTV Unplugged performance.  And now, the band has just surprise released a re-mastered re-pressing of their rare 1991 EP titled, Uncertain; out today on limited edition cranberry-colored vinyl via Island/UMe.

Originally released on an small label in 1991 - when vocalist Dolores O’Riorden was only 19 - the Uncertain EP was the first release by the Irish alt-rock band under The Cranberries moniker and it gives a glimpse as to what was to come, as just a few years later, the band would hit the mainstream with their debut album, Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We? and its smash single, “Linger”.

This striking EP shows a band that was eager yet unassuming as first; with slightly self-deprecating album titles but the EP’s opening title track is the perfect introduction to the band’s assured songwriting and O’Riorden’s inimitable ethereal and soaring vocal style.  “Nothing Left At All” follows and is a perfect slice of driving dream-pop with a hopeful yet heartbreaking mood; alongside layers of background vocals and beautiful bass harmonics.  The second side opens with the propulsive post-punk rhythm and jangly guitars of the catchy, Cure-like standout track “Pathetic Senses” which sounds like it was born to feature on MTV’s 120 Minutes.  The EP closes out with the early live favorite, “Them”, which burns slowly with a big, reverb-rich girl group-inspired drum beat and more of Dolores’s soon-to-be-trademark soaring vocals.

This new, surprise release of the Uncertain EP by The Cranberries is the perfect addition to fans’ collections.  Get yours today! 

For more info: https://thecranberries.lnk.to/UncertainEP

REISSUE: Bob Dylan – The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan

 

In case you missed it, on Record Store Day Black Friday, Columbia Records/Legacy Recordings released The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan on vinyl, as it was originally conceived with four tracks omitted before the album was released and with the original never-seen liner notes. 

Originally released in 1963, Bob Dylan’s second album - best known for the masterpieces “Blowin’ In The Wind”, “Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall”, and “Don’t Think Twice It’s Alright” - now includes “Rocks And Gravel”, “Let Me Die In My Footsteps”, “Rambling, Gambling Willie” and “Talkin’ John Birch Paranoid Blues”.  The latter four tracks were intended for release on the album but were withdrawn before release and while they’ve been previously released via The Bootleg Series, they now complete the album as it was meant to be.   

While Dylan’s breakout debut album was comprised of mostly cover songs, Freewheelin’ was where Dylan became the voice of a generation as he wrote nearly all of the songs on his second album which introduced listeners to his surreal sense of humor (the self-deprecating “Bob Dylan’s Blues”) and his politically-charged stance, best exemplified by the spiritual protest song, “Blowin’ In The Wind”.   

Of the newly-included tracks, “Rocks And Gravel” stands out with its full band accompaniment and funky, bluesy boogie; a stark yet welcomed contrast to the simplified arrangements of the other songs.  Another standout, is “Rambling, Gambling Willie” with its punchy acoustic strumming and catchy, sing-along refrain.  Even with the inclusion of these amazing tracks, it’s a little bittersweet, as the fan favorite “Girl From The North Country” and the protest anthem, “Masters Of War” are both omitted from this release.       

This new version of The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan mirrors the rare first pressings of the album and is the perfect companion to the recently released The Bootleg Series Vol. 18: Through The Open Window 1956-1963.     

For more info: https://recordstoreday.com/UPC/198029671216 & https://bobdylan.lnk.to/Bootleg18YD

Listen to a stripped-down version of “Rocks And Gravel (Solid Road)” taken from Through The Open Window here:

TOP 5 ALBUMS OF 2025

 Deftones – private music

 

The Head And The Heart – Aperture

 

Hamilton Leithauser – This Side Of The Island

 

Arny Margaret – I Miss You, I Do https://arnymargret.bandcamp.com/album/i-miss-you-i-do-the-sj-umst-edition-2

 

Pretty Bitter – Pleaser https://prettybitter.bandcamp.com/album/pleaser

REISSUE: Tears For Fears – Songs From The Big Chair (40th Anniversary)

 

English pop-rock band Tears For Fears released their brilliant sophomore album, Songs From The Big Chair 40 years ago and to celebrate the anniversary, Mercury Records/UMe has reissued the album as a special 2LP set.  Pressed onto transparent ruby red vinyl, the 2LP edition features an alternate album cover design and a second LP that compiles an alternate version of the album with different mixes and demo versions of the original album tracks.  At the same time, the album is out now on 1LP limited edition coke bottle clear vinyl.    

The duo of Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith incorporated guitars to brighten up their dark synth-led sound on Songs From The Big Chair and it proved to be a massive mainstream hit boasted by two still inescapable number one singles, “Shout” and “Everybody Wants To Rule The World”.  The album also includes the hit single “Head Over Heels” and standout tracks, “Mother’s Talk” and “The Working Hour”. 

For this 40^th anniversary edition, the original album is presented on the first two sides and the second LP houses the album made up of alternate, demo and single versions; with six of the eight tracks making their vinyl debut.  Side three opens with an alternative mix of “Shout” that is slightly stripped-down with different synth and drum patterns; the piano version of “The Working Hour” follows.  Next is an alternative single version of “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” with peppy synthesized horns and an early mix of “Mother’s Talk”.  Side four includes the previously released fan favorite - a soulful re-recording of “I Believe”; a demo version of “Broken”, the Hughes-produced 7” edit of “Head Over Heels” and a version of the album closer “Listen” with a glimmering, clean intro.       

With its huge pop hooks and a layered sophisticated sound, Tears For Fears proved they were way ahead of their time with Songs From The Big Chair.  This 40^th anniversary edition with the addition of the alternate versions and original unused album cover is the definitive vinyl version of the landmark album.   

For more info: https://tearsforfears.komi.io/

Watch the newly-created fan-made video for “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” here:

REVIEW: Bob Dylan – Through The Open Window – The Bootleg Series Vol. 18 1956-1963

Volume 18 of Bob Dylan’s ongoing Bootleg Series was recently released via Columbia Records/Legacy Recordings and it is titled, Through The Open Window and focuses on Dylan’s early years of 1956-1963.  The massive 8CD Deluxe set includes 139 tracks, highlighted by 48 previously unreleased performances and 38 rare songs along with a hardcover book including 100 rare photos and extensive liner notes from Sean Wilentz.  Also available are 2CD and 4LP editions that feature 42 selected tracks.

Out of all of the volumes of the Bootleg Series, Through The Open Window may be the most intimate and insightful with its collection of informal recordings from parties, coffee houses and smaller pre-fame nightclub shows that shed light on Dylan’s maturation process; beginning with recordings from the late 50’s in Minnesota prior to his arrival in New York City and ending with his breakout performance at Carnegie Hall in 1963.     

Today, I will be reviewing the 4LP edition which is housed in a hardcover slipcase and features a 24-page booklet with load of photos and a shorter but no less informative liner notes from Wilentz.   

The first LP opens with a short and very raw recording of Bob performing a rollicking piano-led cover of “Let The Good Time Roll” in a record store in Minnesota on Christmas Eve on 1956.   The last three tracks on the first side are outtakes and rehearsals taken from the Bob Dylan sessions in 1961, highlighted by a previously unreleased cover of Woody Guthrie’s “Ramblin’ Round”.  Side B is devoted to five tracks recorded on December 22, 1961 at the Minnesota home of Bonnie Beecher, with the first being a hilarious story told about an adventure in New Jersey and ending with a cover of Reverend Gary Davis’s “Cocaine”.  Though 2 of the tracks included – the great “Dink’s Song” and “I Was Young When I Left Home” – were previously issued on The Bootleg Series Vol. 7 – No Direction Home: The Soundtrack – the aforementioned story and other 2 tracks complete the package.   

The second LP opens with two tracks that were recorded in 1962 at the NYC night club Gerdes Folk City with the standout track, “Talkin’ New York” - a “talking blues” style song, which is one of my favorite Dylan styles.  Also included is a lively rendition of “Corrina, Corrina” that was previously only available on the rare The Copyright Collections release.  Another standout is a twangy cover of “(I Heard That) Lonesome Whistle” made famous by Hank Williams; an outtake from the Freewheelin’ album sessions.  Side D is highlighted by “The Ballad Of The Gliding Swan” which was recorded on a BBC-TV broadcast from January of 1963. 

The third LP is highlighted by a haunting cover of “House Of The Rising Sun” taken from and informal recording in 1963 as well previously unissued alternate takes of fan favorites - “Masters Of War”, “Girl From The North Country” and “Boots Of Spanish Leather” - from the sessions for The Times They Are A-Changin’.  The standout track from LP3 is a striking performance of “The Lonesome Hattie Carroll”, recorded at a party at Ben Shapiro’s home in Los Angeles in 1963, complete with its hurried, sped-up tempo.  The fourth and final LP features 8 tracks recorded during his legendary performance in 1963 at NYC’s Carnegie Hall, highlighted by “Blowin’ In The Wind”, “North Country Blues”, “Who Killed Davey Moore” and “Talkin’ World War III Blues”.   

The recordings captured on Through The Open Window provide the listener an unique opportunity to place themselves in close proximity to Bob Dylan, during intimate performances at record shops, friend’s homes and jam sessions as the 85 year old living legend was coming into his own as a both a performer and songwriter. 

For more info: www.bobdylan.com

Stream “Ramblin’ Round – Take 2” taken from, The Bootleg Series Vol. 18: Through The Open Window, 1956-1963 here:

REVIEW: Sloan – Based On The Best Seller

Sloan, the Canadian indie-rock lifers and power-pop purveyors recently released their fourteenth album, Based On The Best Seller, via their own Murderecords and Yep Roc.  Out now on clear gold vinyl limited to 2,000 copies worldwide.        

The excellent album opens with the nostalgia-tinged “Capitol Cooler” and its steady strums and propulsive rhythm followed by the strutting glam rock of standout track “Dream Destroyer”.  Led by jaunty piano, the Beatles-esque “Open Your Umbrellas” is boasted by an uplifting message.  Another standout - “Live Forever” - is the perfect example of a Sloan song with its layered harmonies, fun, sweeping melodies and undeniable charm and catchiness.  That’s just on the A-side and as we know, A-sides win.  The B-side proves just as memorable; highlighted by the blazing guitars and bouncing beat of another glam-inspired track “So Far Down”, the horn-assisted Pet Sounds-informed “Fortune Teller”, the grungy bass-led groove of “No Damn Fears”, and the bittersweet album closer, “I Already Know”.       

With their latest release, Jay, Chris, Patrick and Andrew once again emphatically prove that they cannot write a bad album with a three decades plus streak of consistency that every band should strive for.    

For more info: https://sloanmusic.com/

Stream Based On The Best Seller here:

REVIEW: The Cranberries - MTV Unplugged

 Finally, fans of The Cranberries get their wish!  Out now via Island Records/UMe is the official debut standalone release of the band’s legendary MTV Unplugged performance. 

Originally broadcast on April 18, 1995 (my 16th birthday, by the way!) the gorgeous acoustic performance by the Irish alt-pop band featured nine songs, highlighted by standouts, “Ode To My Family”, “Linger” and “Free To Decide”.  The album also includes non-album track “Yesterday’s Gone” which was written the day before the performance and has never received a proper studio recording.  The track worth the price of admission is the much lighter and subdued version of the normally heavy and explosive single, “Zombie”.  The heaviness of the lyrics remains though the distorted guitars and crashing cymbals are absent, revealing the stunning songwriting beneath it all.        

Dolores and crew were assisted by the string quartet Electra Strings (who steal the show on the beautiful “Linger”) and the intimate stripped-down renditions are the perfect opportunity to shine the spotlight on the inimitable vocals of the late O’Riordan.         

For more info: https://cranberries.com/

Listen to the stirring “Empty” from The Cranberries – MTV Unplugged here:

REVIEW: Greg Wheeler and the Poly Mall Cops – Slimephone Surveillance

 

The garage-punk trio known as Greg Wheeler and the Poly Mall Cops has returned today to issue their sophomore album, Slimephone Survellance, out now on High Dive Records on limited edition glow in the dark slime green or black vinyl.  Like a blinding blast of neon from the shadows, Wheeler, along with drummer Hutch and bassist/vocalist Jill Erin McLain create 10 noisy and frantic punk-fuelled bursts of garage rock with raw, snarling attitude on their new album, with a sound akin to The Cramps.   

The statement-making opening track, “Reception” which shifts between creeping carnival-like rhythms on the verse to a full-on rage-out on the screaming chorus, stands out along with the first single and quasi-title track, “Slimephone (You Can’t Hide)” with its propulsive rhythm, campy howls and catchy chorus.  Later, the trio stretches their legs a bit on “Fernweh” with its emotional vulnerability and extended jam session that ends the song on a high note.        

Matching in intensity with the music, the packaging is top notch, with a fold-out lyric sheet/poster and tattoo-worthy illustrations for each song created by Philliphines based artist Hex Aunzo.      

For more info: https://highdiverecords.bandcamp.com/album/slimephone-surveillance  

Watch the video for “Slimephone (You Can’t Hide)” here:

REISSUE: My Morning Jacket – Z (20th Anniversary)

My Morning Jacket celebrates the 20^th anniversary of their breakthrough fourth album, Z, with a newly remastered deluxe edition; out now on ATO Records and available as a 2CD or 3LP set on colored vinyl. The expanded edition comes in a triple gatefold package and features 14 unreleased bonus tracks including, outtakes and demo versions.        

Critics and fans alike, hailed the Kentucky band’s fourth album, released in 2005, as their “Ok Computer”.  That description fit as Z was much like the Radiohead classic in that it was expansive and experimental; it took their Southern indie rock to soaring new heights with danceable rhythms and new influences and instrumentation.  The stunning album was led by standout tracks such as the upbeat, reggae-inspired rhythm of “Off The Record” and the fittingly-titled infectiously-catchy sing-along, “Wordless Chorus”.

 In addition to the original album, 14 bonus tracks are featured, highlighted by four previously unreleased tracks, including, “Where To Begin” with its aching pedal steel, which was one of the first tracks recorded with Bo Koster and Carl Broemel (formerly of Atlas and the Anchor favorite Old Pike).  Other standouts include the buzzing bass-led “The Devil’s Peanut Butter with its sticky strings and the sullen strummer, “How Could I Know (Oxen)” with its silo-soaring chorus.  Also included are several drum machine-aided demo versions created by Jim James, highlighted by “Wordless Chorus (Demo)”, “It Beats For You (Demo)” and the booming dub-inspired beat of “Off The Record (Demo)”; with most of the tracks nearly fully-fleshed out in their demo form. 

Twenty years later and Z sounds just as fresh and groundbreaking as ever and this deluxe reissue only adds to the album’s legacy.

For more info: https://www.mymorningjacket.com/ & https://mmorningjacket.bandcamp.com/album/z-20th-anniversary-deluxe-edition

Stream: “Where To Begin (Demo)” here: 

REVIEW: THIMASTR – Muscle Memories

 Out now on High Dive Records is the new album from THIMASTR titled, Muscle Memories.  After a five year wait, the Lawrence, KS based band offers up a brand of shoegaze and surf-inspired psych-pop with danceable rhythms sure to make you move.    

Throughout the album reverb-rich guitars abound especially on the standout track, “Blood Potion”, with its psychedelic swirl of thumping toms and spoken-word mantras.  Likewise, the infectiously catchy single, “Nude Thigh” is built upon snaking, sing-along melodies and hand-claps.  Other standouts include, “Chuck Ranger” which is propelled by a galloping beat and evocative Western whistling that dissolves into psychedelic madness, and “Jack LaLanne” with its Spector-sized beat and dual male/female vocal melodies.    

Muscle Memories, the 9-song sophomore album - available on limited edition cassette and digipak CD -  is slightly less sunny and more moodier than their impressive debut; showcasing a more psych-tinged sound that remains as hip-shaking as ever.     

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/thimastrlfk/?hl=en

Stream Muscle Memories here:

REISSUE: Descendents – Milo Goes To College

 

Just as they did with the legendary Bad Brains, ORG Music has begun a new reissue campaign for California pop-punk pioneers Descendents.  Fittingly, the first reissue is of their 1982 punk classic debut album, Milo Goes To College, out now and available on vinyl, cassette and CD.    

While still in high school, vocalist Milo Aukerman, drummer Bill Stevenson, guitarist Frank Navetta and bassist Tony Lombardo created a seminal sound that blended super-catchy vocal hooks and harmonies with their blistering hard core punk rock rhythms along with funny, relatable and smart yet juvenile lyrics about life with parents, girls and food.  With no hyperbole, Descendents influenced nearly every punk band that came after them. 

Milo Goes To College was originally released in September of 1982 via New Alliance Records and blasts off with Stevenson’s propulsive drumming and Tony’s expressive bass lines, and doesn’t relent once during its 15 song, 22 minute run time; led by fan favorites such as the snarling sing-along, “Marriage” and the skate rock classic “Bikeage”.  Other standouts include the timeless stance of the explosive “M16” and the raging and enraging “I’m Not A Punk”.              

43 years later, this new reissue project proves that the Descendents were ahead of their time.  Be sure to check out Milo Goes To College and look for more reissues from the band and ORG Music soon!   

For more info: https://orgmusic.com/collections/descendents

Listen to “Bikeage” here:

REISSUE: Green Apple Quick Step – Dizzy: The Medicine Label Anthology

 

The criminally-underrated 90’s alt-rock band Green Apple Quick Step recently received the reissue treatment from Omnivore Recordings with Dizzy: The Medicine Label Anthology.  The 2-CD set offers up newly-remastered versions of the band’s major label debut Wonderful Virus and follow-up Reloaded alongside 13 bonus tracks, including 4 previously unreleased.  In addition, the two albums have been reissued on colored vinyl as well. 

The Seattle band – led by vocalist/guitarist Ty Willman - was signed during the 90’s major label feeding frenzy that began with Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Soundgarden.  Their 1993 debut for The Medicine Label (a subsidiary of Warner Bros.) shared the heavy grunge rock intensity of their peers but they delivered a sound their own with a focus on instantly catchy power-pop melodies and the male/female vocal melodies of Ty and bassist Mari Ann Braeden, which really took the spotlight on their 1995 sophomore album, Reloaded. 

Disc one features the charging debut album, Wonderful Virus (led by the stunning single “Dirty Water Ocean”) and is outfitted with 7 bonus tracks highlighted by an MTV Unplugged-worthy acoustic version of the standout track, “Feel My Way”, as well as energetic live versions of album tracks “Stereo” and “Pay The Rent” and a cover of “The Unheard Music” by X.  Celebrating its 30^th anniversary, disc two houses their second album, Reloaded (led by the jangly and infectious single “Dizzy” featured in the film The Basketball Diaries) along with its bonus tracks, of which highlights include, the previously unissued tracks “Restless”, “Pills” and the electrifying “Five Way Switch”.    

Green Apple Quick Step once had Mookie Blaylock (aka, a pre-fame Pearl Jam playing their first live show) open for them and Stone Gossard of Pearl Jam and Nick Didia produced Reloaded yet despite that and their heavy psychedelic power-pop sound, the band never quite took off like they deserved.  This new anthology serves to remedy that as the perfect introduction for new listeners and a comprehensive document for all of the fans that were there from the beginning.   

For more info: https://omnivorerecordings.com/shop/dizzy/

Relive the video for “Dirty Water Ocean” here:

REVIEW: deftones – private music

 

Honestly, I do not understand how it is possible - after over 30 years and 10 albums – Deftones, the 90’s nu-metal survivors, are still topping themselves and putting out new music that rivals the best of their catalog.  Their new album, private music, was recently released via Reprise Records and it is amazing! 

The 11-song album opens with the towering riff and propelling groove of the first single, “my mind is a mountain” and follows with standout after standout track including, “infinite source”, which is instantly one of Deftones’ best songs with its perfect distillation of dueling aesthetics; blending both chaos and calm with heavy riffs and soaring vocals melodies.  Other standouts include the uplifting drive of “milk of the madonna”, the dreamy pop of “cXz” and the blistering bellow of “cut hands”.  Additionally, Chino and crew seemingly call for doubters to “join our parade or be left out” on “locked club” and appear grateful, thanking their longtime fans and believers (“all of our dreams, all of your cheers”) on “infinite source”. 

Outlasting their 90’s peers, Deftones have proved to be highly-influential and everlasting with their inimitable shoegaze-drenched brand of alt-metal and their excellent new album, private music, is further proof. 

For more info: https://www.deftones.com/  

Watch the video for “infinite source” here:

REISSUE: Heatmiser – Mic City Sons (30th Anniversary)

 

Following the 2023 release of the archival compilation, The Music Of Heatmiser, Third Man Records recently released a deluxe reissue of Heatmiser’s third and final album, Mic City Sons, to celebrate its 30^th anniversary.  Heatmiser was the underappreciated early band of the late singer-songwriter Elliot Smith.  Here, the Portland, Oregon-based band’s swan song is newly remastered as an expanded 2LP set, complete with rare demos and previously unreleased tracks. 

Heatmiser consisted of vocalsist/guitarist Elliot Smith and Neil Gust along with bassist Sam Coomes and drummer Tony Lash; together, with producers Rob Schnapf and Tom Rothrock, they created a unique brand of indie rock that blended Smith’s trademark melancholy and ragged guitar style along with more upbeat, punk-flavored rock into a cult classic. 

The original 12-song album is doubled up with another 12 bonus tracks, highlighted by a demo version of the standout leadoff track “Get Lucky”, as well as a more straight-forward and rollicking version of album track “Christian Brothers”, an interesting untitled instrumental, and the upbeat but ominous “Dark Cloud”, a previously unreleased Gust-penned track.    

During recording sessions for Mic City Sons, Elliot Smith already had one foot out the door with his burgeoning solo career (his breakout, the Good Will Hunting Soundtrack would be released the following year) and the strained relationships are evident in the music but Heatmiser’s final chapter is a testament to the band they were and this new 30^th anniversary edition is the perfect introduction for new fans to carry on the legacy. 

For more info: https://ffm.to/miccitysons

Stream the Smith-led “See You Later” with its crunchy bounce here:

REVIEW: Sly & The Family Stone – The First Family: Live At Winchester Cathedral 1967

Sly & The Family Stone – led by the late Sly Stone - were pioneering figures in the late 60’s and 70’s with their innovative blend of funk, rock, pop and soul; and revolutionary social commentary.  In celebration of Stone’s life and legacy, High Moon Records recently released a previously unreleased live album titled, The First Family: Live At Winchester Cathedral 1967.  Featuring the original Family Stone lineup – highlighted by bassist Larry Graham, percussionist Greg Errico, vocalist Cynthia Robinson, saxophonist Jerry Martini, and multi-instrumentalist Brother Freddie Stone - the dynamic live recording captures a band totally locked in and ready to breakthrough;  just a year before their chart-topping single, “Dance To The Music”. 

This deluxe edition is highlighted by a 24-page booklet featuring tons of amazing photos, an in-depth essay by Grammy-nominated archivist Alec Palao, as well as incredibly insightful interviews with band members including, Sly. 

Many of the tracks recorded in March 26^th, 1967 are unique covers including lively renditions of Ben E. King’s “What Is Soul?”, Otis Redding’s “I Can’t Turn You Loose” and a fast-paced cover of the Joe Tex original, “Show Me”.  Side two opens with a rousing cover of “Baby I Need Your Loving”, originally made famous by The Four Tops.  The album opens with an original tune, an early incarnation of “I Ain’t Got Nobody (For Real)”, which would find its way onto their second album, Dance To The Music.          

The First Family: Live At Winchester Cathedral 1967 is the perfect addition to Sly & The Family Stone fans’ collections as an early document of Sly and his band and a tribute to their lasting legacy.   

Stream the album here:

REISSUE: 311 – 311 (30th Anniversary)

 

90’s alt-rock legends 311 recently celebrated the 30^th anniversary of their 1995 breakthrough self-titled third album with an expanded reissue of the “Blue Album”.  Out now on Volcano/Legacy Recordings, the 2LP set is highlighted by the inclusion of seven bonus tracks, taken from their comprehensive 2015 box set, marking the first time on vinyl for these bonus songs.  Featuring a “pearlized” embossed gatefold sleeve, the reissue is available on limited edition citrine or smoky blue vinyl. 

311 finally made the jump to mainstream success with the release of their self-titled album in July of 1995 with their seamless and unique blend of radio-ready rap, rock and reggae.  Singles such as “Down”, “All Mixed Up” and “Don’t Stay Home” were in rightfully in heavy rotation on MTV and rock radio and the Nebraska-based band – featuring Nick Hexum, SA, Chad Sexton and P-Nut - remain rock royalty, touring every year and have released 14 studio albums. 

Of the 7 bonus tracks, a few stand out including, the astro-disco grooves of “Gap”, the insanely infectious hooks of “Outside”, the fun and funny “Juan Bond” and the warped, mud-thick version of “Firewater (Slo Mo)”.  Be sure to grab this 30^th anniversary edition of 311! 

For more info: https://311.com/

Relive the video for “Down” here:

Stream the standout bonus track “Juan Bond” here:

REVIEW – skymender – skymender EP

 D.C.-based quintet skymender recently returned with a new, 4-song self-titled EP on Steadfast Records -  recorded earlier this year with legendary producer J. Robbins (Jawbox, Government Issue) - available on CD and very limited edition blue cassette.     

Building off of their brilliant 2023 debut album, If and Only, skymender creates a swirl of sounds where the lilting dream-pop melodies created by the male/female vocals of guitarist Kenny Grose and Ashley Scurto soar above molasses-thick shoegaze textures.  Standout tracks include the opener, “u.s.s.r.”, with its nostalgia-inducing 90’s vibes and stop-start rhythm, and the aptly-titled, “billows” with its hazy, smoke-thick atmospherics, chugging rhythm and cloud-scraping vocal melodies.    

So far, skymender hasn’t missed; delivering the goods once again and once again blurring the lines between blissful melody and chaotic noise. 

For more info, https://steadfastrecords.net/blogs/artists/skymender

Stream skymender EP here:

REISSUE: Clap Your Hands Say Yeah - Self-Titled (20th Anniversary)

 

This year marks the 20^th anniversary of Clap Your Hands Say Yeah’s excellent eponymous debut album.  To celebrate the band has self-released via a partnership with Secretly Distribution, a limited deluxe gatefold edition of the album on clear 140g vinyl with yellow, white and pink splatter.  The deluxe package also includes a 7” flexidisc featuring the original 2004 version of standout track, “Heavy Metal” as well as peel-off stickers on the “design your own” album cover. 

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah was released seemingly out of nowhere in 2005 and found immediate success from indie music blogs that touted their fun, ambitious and eccentric sound.  The band, led by Alec Ounsworth - and his unique voice - created a new brand of “kitchen-sink” indie rock beholden to Bob Dylan and Brian Eno and everything in between; with wobbly sea shanties (see, the carnival-barking opening track) and strange synths making their way into the raw yet immediately catchy indie-pop songs.  Standout tracks include, “Let The Cool Goddess Rust Away” with its buzzing, bass-led rhythm and the shuffling, danceable beat and bright, bendy guitar melodies of “The Skin Of My Yellow Country Teeth”; as well as “Is This Love” with its frantic energy, bubbling bass and ear-worming, sing-along refrain.     

For more info or to order: https://www.cyhsy.com/

Watch the newly-created video for “The Skin Of My Yellow Country Teeth” (the album’s first ever official music video) below; it was co-directed by filmmaker David M. Helman and David Henry. 

REVIEW: Goose – Everything Must Go

Connecticut-based jam band Goose recently released their eagerly-awaited fourth studio album, Everything Must Go; out now as a 3-LP set via Denver’s No Coincidence Records. 

Led by the lead single, “Give It Time”, with its spirit-lifting lyrics and tumbling tom-heavy percussion; the new album is chock full of their unique blend of prog-rock, funk, folk and indie rock.  Standout track, “Dustin Hoffman” follows with a lithe funk groove offset by blasts of horns and a danceable rhythm.  Next, “Your Direction” takes the band down a familiar path with sunny, laid-back melodies and “Thatch” provides another spaced-out funk jam.     

Later, “Animal” weaves in flutes and other World Music atmospherics for another standout moment.  “Red Bird” offers both acoustic drums and 80’s drum programming alongside shimmering synths and a sing along chorus.  “California Magic” sounds more like it was born in Louisiana with its swampy groove and liberal use of horns.  Finally, the last standout track, “Iguana Song” should prove to be an instant live favorite with its slippery rhythm and long, improv-ready jam that ends the song.       

While the initial album announcement was sullied a bit by the accompanying news of percussionist Jeffrey Arevalo’s abrupt departure, Everything Must Go breaks through the negativity with a positive message and another solid collection of songs that  - along with their beloved live show - cements their place at the top of their genre.

For more info and tour dates: https://www.goosetheband.com/

Stream Everything Must Go here:

 

REVIEW: focused – Devil’s Kiss EP

 

Out today on Steadfast Records is Devil’s Kiss, a 3-song EP from 90’s Christian hardcore band Focused.  The three tracks were recorded in 2000 during a short reunion and were previously only released as MP3s.  Steadfast gives this piece of unflinchingly heavy hardcore history its first physical release in the form of limited edition cassette, 7” vinyl and CD.  Originally produced by Bob Waddington in 2000, the songs were recently remixed and remastered by Steven Dail of Project 86. 

Led by the title track, the EP is a beast of 90’s era metallic hardcore that shows why this Southern California band was so influential to the Christian hardcore scene.  “Devil’s Kiss” opens with a haunting intro before unleashing righteous fury as vocalist Tim Mann bludgeons his vocal cords for our enjoyment.  The aptly-titled, “We’re Here To Show You How” follows and does just that with anthemic propulsion.  The EP closes out with the emotionally-charged “Fighting For A Soul” with its vulnerable yet passionately uplifting lyrics and matching guitar churn.   

For more info and to order: https://steadfastrecords.net/                  

Stream “Devil’s Kiss” here:

REVIEW: Rage Against The Machine – Live On Tour 1993

 In case you missed it, Epic/Legacy Recordings issued a new live Rage Against The Machine album as part of their Record Store Day offerings in April.  Simply titled, Live On Tour 1993, the double LP features three sides of raw and unmixed previously unreleased live performances taken from their first world tour.  As an added bonus, the fourth side features an etching of the flag draped over Tom Morello’s guitar amp. 

The 10-song track list follows in order their self-titled debut album; as the perfect companion to the legendary original.  Many cities and countries are represented with recordings taken from Paris, Toronto, Milan, Chicago, Atlanta and D.C., among others.  Included are meaningful song intros and dedications from vocalist Zach De La Rocha, for example, he dedicates “Bullet In The Head” to those fighting the war in the Persian Gulf at the time.  Elsewhere, Morello improvises on his already wildly creative guitar solos, for unique takes on the well known and loved songs. 

For those that were there and for those that weren’t, the intense and incendiary Live On Tour 1993 provides the perfect raw document to Rage Against The Machine’s beginning.  A must have! 

For more info: https://recordstoreday.com/SpecialRelease/18521

Though not from this release, listen to one of my favorite R.A.T.M. songs here: 

REISSUE: Shudder To Think – Pony Express Record

 

This review first appeared on Icon Fetch here: https://iconfetch.com/reviews/record-store-day-preview-shudder-to-think-pony-express-record-review 

Record Store Day is on Saturday, April 12 this year and Epic/Legacy Recordings is offering up a 30^th anniversary edition of Pony Express Record, the major label debut from D.C. alt-punk band Shudder To Think.   Originally released in 1994, this new edition is sourced from the original tapes and pressed onto vinyl for the very first time in the United States.  The expanded 2-LP set is presented on crystal clear vinyl and features 5 bonus rare live 2-track recordings from 1994 that revisit their independent catalog. 

Shudder To Think emerged from the D.C. based Minor Threat and Dischord Records-led hardcore scene of the 80’s with an experimental post-punk sound all their own.  The unorthodox yet highly-influential band - led by dynamic vocalist/guitarist Craig Wedren’s vivid vibrato and glam-inspired falsetto – blended unpredictable rhythms that stop and start on a dime and touches of jazz and metal with angular art-rock and sometimes dramatic, off-kilter power-pop melodies. 

Pony Express Record was produced by Ted Nicely (Fugazi, Jawbox) and mixed by Andy Wallace (Rage Against The Machine, Nirvana) and features the album-opening single, “Hit Liquor” with its slinky staccato groove and noisy freak-outs; alongside standout tracks such as “Kissi Penny” with its soaring vocals and guitars that alternate between a serene shimmer and a crooked crunch as well as their defining, critically-acclaimed single, “X-French Tee Shirt” and the romantic, jazz-inspired vibes of “Own Me”.

Alongside the original album, side D features the bonus tracks, “Heaven Here”, “Baby Drop”, “Lies About The Sky, “Day Ditty” and is highlighted by fan-favorite, “Red House”; all which were recorded live to 2-track tape in January of 1994 and are songs previously released via Dischord Records prior to their signing to Epic Records.      

On the heels of Pony Express Record, Shudder To Think also released the amazing album 50,000 B.C. in 1997, and the First Love, Last Rites Motion Picture Soundtrack in 1998 – the latter of which is also available on vinyl from Legacy for Record Store Day this year.

For more info: https://recordstoreday.com/SpecialRelease/18514

Watch the video for “X-French Tee Shirt” here:

REVIEW: My Morning Jacket – is

 

My Morning Jacket recently released their 10^th album, titled, is, via ATO Records.  After self-producing for years, the band brought in producer Brendan O’Brien (Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen) who was able to showcase the long-running band’s numerous strengths, including their warped experimentalism, resulting in a 10-song collection of some of their best songs in years. 

is opens with the stirring “Out In The Open” with its driving rhythm and soaring vocal melodies before giving way to standout track, “Half A Lifetime” with its jagged beat and catchy, sing-along vibe.  The album is led by the uplifting lead single, “Time Wasted” which incorporates a gorgeous piano part sampled from an album by pedal-steel player Buddy Emmons.  Other standouts include the easy-going 50’s rock romanticism of “I Can Hear Your Love” and the slinky funk/psych-rock hybrid “Squid Ink”.  

With is being released the same year as My Morning Jacket’s celebrated experimental album, Z, celebrates its 20^th anniversary, fans of the band can revisit Z and listen to the excellent new album and fall in love all over again. 

For more info, https://www.mymorningjacket.com/

Watch the video for “Squid Ink” here: