Below are some recommended holiday gift ideas for the music enthusiast on your list. The focus is on classic Eighties-era reissues by English and American bands.
The Replacements
Let it Be - Deluxe Edition
(Rhino/Twin Tone)
After The Replacements released their third full-length album (whose title was a private Beatles joke) in 1984, the Minneapolis four-piece became one of the most revered and critically acclaimed indie rock bands around. The jaunty single “I Will Dare,” featuring a guest guitar solo Peter Buck of R.E.M., topped playlists at more than 50 college radio stations.
Other songs showed singer/guitarist Paul Westerberg’s evolution as a songwriter as he adeptly tapped into youth and social issues (“Unsatisfied,” “Androgynous,” “16 Blue”).
This exceptional box set – available on 4LP, 3CD or digitally - includes the original album remastered, plus revelatory unreleased studio and live recordings. A complete Chicago 1984 gig, taken from audience tape and cleaned up, finds the ‘Mats in fine, raw form, previewing Let it Be material, an early version of “Can’t Hardly Wait,” and covering KISS, The Beach Boys, Bad Company, T-Rex and more in typical rousing style. There are several rare photos, a 20-page booklet with historical context essay and an interesting back story courtesy of co-producer/manager/label owner Peter Jesperson.
Info: rhino.com
Thompson Twins
Industry & Seduction: A Collection
(BMG)
Hailing from Sheffield, England, Thompson Twins – best known for major U.S. hit “Hold Me Now” - stood out from the new wave pack due to the classic lineup’s male and female, multi-racial makeup, and a penchant for unique, sometimes Arabian-tinged melodies.
The first compilation overseen by the musicians includes liner notes with single sleeve covers, seldom seen photos, and a new interview with principals Tom Bailey & Alannah Currie. The 2LP (there’s a cool limited edition orange/green variant) and 1CD formats include the major American and British hits, plus select deep cuts from gold/platinum albums Into the Gap and Here’s to Future Days (Chic’s Nile Rodgers co-produced the latter; Steve Stevens of Billy Idol fame added guitar firepower).
Serious fans will want the expanded 3CD or digital configurations for a broader career overview and California concert recording.
Info: amazon.com
Simple Minds
Once Upon a Time – 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition
(Universal Music Group/Virgin)
The Glasgow group released seven albums before an outlier single - “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” from “The Breakfast Club” soundtrack – went to #1 and finally got America to take notice. 1985’s high water mark Once Upon a Time followed and reaped all the benefits.
This stellar 5CD edition is handsomely packaged in a clamshell box with cardboard gatefold sleeves, fascinating historical liner notes, track by track commentary and ample photos. The main album and legendary Live in the City of Light from Paris ‘86 sound brighter than ever. Diehard fans will revel in the wealth of B-sides, rarities, and extended dance mixes. Standouts include “Alive and Kicking,” “Sanctify Yourself,” “All the Things She Said,” and “Ghostdancing.” Highly recommended.
Info: udiscovermusic.com
George Paul
