A superb retrospective - God Save the BBC
Jesse Christopherson | 11/28/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Why did these performances stay in the BBC vaults for so long? They're brilliant! It's well known that singer Lee Mavers was unsatisfied with the sound of the La's only album. I'd like to know his reaction to this disc: the sound is crisp, the band is tight, the vocals are at least as good as on The La's. This is a great presentation of great songs - this release really breathes new life into tunes that have been on my playlist for fifteen years.
The track selection is a real insight into the band at its most vital. The singles are here, but so are a couple of b-sides and Calling All, which I haven't heard before. I'd go so far as to say that this should be considered a necessary companion to the (import, with bonus tracks) studio album - either one would serve as a compelling introduction to the band.
Now if they'd just tour the States!"
Finally!
Thomas Horan | Chapel Hill, NC | 02/21/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The La's always felt that Steve Lillywhite's high gloss, blended production sucked the life out of their Britpop skiffle, and these stunning radio sessions prove them right! Almost every track is superior to the previously released album version, conveying the propulsion and joy of live music with the bell clarity and razor precision of a studio recording. The harmonies are more prominent; the sound of each instrument more distinct; and the overall feel more energetic. For sheer song quality and performance value, The La's lone, self-titled full length will always be a classic, flawed or otherwise. But this new compilation, which includes a few b-sides and rarities, invites you to hear their timeless melodies again for the first time."
Track Listings (17) - Disc #1