Top-Notch Work
Kurt Harding | Boerne TX | 03/18/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Long-time Tindersticks fans may peruse the tracklist of this two disc set and wonder why they should buy these songs again. I did. The answer is that you should buy because of the historic connection to the BBC and the legendary John Peel since quality is almost guaranteed when he is involved.
The first time I played this set I gave myself a big pat on the back for deciding to buy. The clarity and intensity of these assembled sessions is simply tremendous. The orchestration is astounding. I like all the songs but naturally some stand out.
On disc one, the best cuts far and away are a penetrating rendition of Her which features a memorable guitar attack and a rousing Snowy In F# Minor. I also favor Drunk Tank, A Night In, Talk To Me, and the instrumental Vertrauen 2.
On Disc 2, the best cut is (Tonight) Are You Trying To Fall In Love Again? but I also favor Here, Seaweed, the instrumental Rhumba, a new version of Her with piano replacing guitar, and a rendition of Tiny Tears which I think is better than the one on disc one. I also like Travelling Light and Buried Bones though they lack the female vocal touch which makes them so appealing in their original versions.
The Complete BBC Sessions is a top-notch piece of work. If you are a Tindersticks fan, you should add this to your collection. If you are new to the band's music, this set offers a well-presented overview of the band's early songs."