Terminal Tower

At the outset of their career, released some of the very first independent-label singles on their own (later ) label, which constitute some of their most celebrated and legendary work. gathers 11 tracks, mostly from the crucial / period (including the entire EP), plus a couple of later U.K. singles. This music's historical importance is undeniable -- not only because of the band's pioneeringly independent status in an area not as celebrated for its scene, but also because was one of the first bands to push their sound into territory later classified as , a testament to their forward-looking approach. None of that would matter if didn't hold up so well as a listening experience, but still sounds utterly original. ' unearthly voice mumbles and sobs the angular melodies over a backdrop of guitars, startling sound effects (from both guitar and synth), and odd dissonances. Moments of jarring, apocalyptic terror ( the creeping, crawling ) sit next to oddly beautiful introspection, sometimes on the same song (the aching angst and evocative guitar solo of ). Meanwhile, tracks incorporate those textures into a gleeful dada bounce. The two tracks unavailable anywhere else, and are slices of dementia that may make the collection worthwhile for devotees who already own the box, especially since this is such a strong, coherent listen. stands as the best introduction to the band not only because of its stellar material and relative accessibility, but also because it largely lacks the arty indulgences that popped up even on the group's most consistent albums. Now that it's back in print, it's essential, groundbreaking listening. ~ Steve Huey