In 1995, Rebound Records (a subsidiary of PolyGram Records) came up with an idea. Three albums would be released, each focusing on a different era of ‘alternative music.’ The albums that resulted were at times entertaining and interesting yet uninspired at others.
Alterno-Daze: Origin of the Species features twelve classic tracks that the creators call ‘alternative.’ Whether that term is apt descriptor of the tracks is certainly a matter of opinion. As with the other two albums in the series, there are both good and bad songs; some that I like and others that seem boring and lackluster. The most surprising thing about this Alterno-Daze album was the inclusion of a few very popular, and increasingly acclaimed artists ranging from David Bowie and The Velvet Underground to the Ramones.
While I can appreciate most of the songs on Alterno-Daze: Origin of the Species, I feel as though some of the tracks aren’t good representations of the artists (David Bowie, for example). In fact, I really do feel that a few of the songs are duds. It would seem that the people who put this album together could have located a few better songs to replace the crappy ones. Overall, I do think that the album is a worthwhile purchase (especially considering that it’s cheap—really cheap, we’re talking a new CD $6.50 here people) for music fans looking for a quick and easy fix. How hard is it really to hit skip on the CD player anyway…
1. Is She Really Going Out With Him? - Joe Jackson [Look Sharp! – 1979]
This is the song I think of when somebody speaks of Joe Jackson. He is one of those under appreciated artists who (especially on his 1979 album) made some great music. This particular example transcends any musical movement happening in the 1970’s. Jackson sounds very classy. The music is simple and the instruments are sparse. The combination of Jackson’s at times soulful vocals and his lyrics are what make this an outstanding example of ‘good’ music on this compilation album.
2. Pulling Mussels (From The Shell) - Squeeze [Argybargy – 1980]
This Squeeze track is one that stands out to me. It’s energetic and upbeat although it doesn’t come into it’s own until the chorus. The combination between lead singer Glenn Tillbrook’s smooth and emotional vocals and Chris Difford’s lyrics and guitar creates an overall complete vision. The music is appropriately moderate, and the song as a whole relies heavily on Tillbrook’s aforementioned vocal talents. One of the better songs on Alterno-Daze.
3. Whip It - Devo [Freedom of Choice – 1980]
To be honest, I don’t know exactly why this song was ever popular. Maybe it was because of the band’s sadomasochistic image on early MTV. Maybe it was because New Wave as a whole was rather lackluster. Whatever the reason, Whip It is a classic track. I’m annoyed by the synthesizer and the keyboards mixed with robotic rhythms and choppy vocals. I personally don’t think that the song has survived the ravages of time.
4. Sheena Is A Punk Rocker - Ramones [Rocket to Russia – 1977]
Joey Ramone sounds like the punk pioneer he is on this early Ramones track. As with all the rest of their music, it’s very fast and meant to be nothing more than fun. The song isn’t particularly abrasive nor is it offensive in the least. The four-chord melody, simple and catchy lyrics, and fast tempo make this a classic track. Seriously, you can’t go wrong with the Ramones or this track.
5. Love You Till Tuesday - David Bowie [David Bowie – 1967]
Most people didn’t know any thing about David Bowie until the later Ziggy Stardust era. This track is simple and strange. Bowie doesn’t sound nearly as creatively free as he did on later releases. The music accompaniment is also strange, with stringed orchestral instruments, a xylophone, and moderate drums all driving the song. Not the best Bowie track by any stretch of the imagination. You may even consider skipping this one.
6. One Step Beyond - Madness [One Step Beyond – 1979]
British band Madness combines ska rhythms, pop sensibility, a saxophone, and synthesizers to form this song that is strange at best. Almost completely instrumental, the only words ever uttered at any time are One step beyond. Since I am not a fan of instrumental songs, this offering is not in the least bit aurally pleasing. The only thing I can say I enjoy are the ska influences.
7. Broken English - Marianne Faithfull [Broken English – 1979] Marianne Faithfull had one of the most distinctive voices ever uttered by any female singer. This particular track was the title song from her comeback album in 1979. With a gravely, low, intense voice, Faithfull sounds very much unlike anything else you’ve ever heard. I’m not keen on this song but am very appreciative of her creativity and her ability to coax her voice into singing. Broken English is a mid-tempo rock track…nothing else. Nothing profound.
8. The Mirror In The Bathroom - English Beat [I Just Can’t Stop It – 1980] The Mirror In The Bedroom is representative of a truly new and creative band. They combined ska with punk sensibility. The resulting sound is pleasing and energetic. What results is a playfully political songs. In my opinion, this song is one of the best ones on this album. I enjoy guitarist/rapper Ranking Roger’s strange vocals.
9. I'm Waiting For The Man - The Velvet Underground & Nico [The Velvet Underground & Nico – 1967]
Let me begin this short review by saying that I am in no way a fan of The Velvet Underground. I certainly appreciate many songs from Lou Reed as a solo artist, but just have not exposed myself to his earlier work (for no particular reason). From an outsider’s prospective, this is a nice rock track. I enjoy Reed’s vocals and the overall feeling of the song. I’m not sure that it’s groundbreaking, nor am I sure that the music on the whole is for the most part creative. It seems very repetitive for my liking. A decent track, just not my favorite.
10. Wild Thing - Troggs [Wild Thing – 1966]
This seems to be a very strange track to have on this album. I realize that it was edgy in 1966. Today, it’s nothing more than an Animal House favorite. Everybody knows this Troggs version (among various other incarnations). I don’t see anything special about the song. The guitars, drums, and vocals are very repetitive. The vocals are nasally. Reg Presley’s voice is rather nasally. I also don’t particularly like the mid-tempo rhythm. It seems to not have much energy. Definitely not one of my favorite songs, although it’s reputation as some kind of classic earned it’s spot on Alterno-Daze.
11. Don't Touch Me There - The Tubes [Young & Rich – 1977]
I don’t like this song. It’s supposed to be a satirical look at early teen-focused rock music. I don’t like teen dream music, much less this reinterpretation of the entire genre. Sure, the sexual nature of The Tubes is humorous. Besides that, I’m annoyed. I enjoy the band’s later track She’s A Beauty. This, on the other hand, is purely crap.
12. Going Under Ground - The Jam [Dig The New Breed – 1982]
British superstars The Jam provide the last track. Fortunately, the song is one of the best on the album. At least I’m left with a good taste in my mouth. They are mod, energetic, and ultimately sound like a combination between punk and pop. Rather than relying totally on synthesizers they incorporate the use of electronic music and real instruments. Simply put…this is a superb offering.
There are some major problems with this album. Crappy songs paired with over-hyped bands ends up drowning this compilation. Sure there are some great tracks. I really do enjoy half of the songs. The first four are brilliant, as is the English Beat song and The Jam song. Besides that, you may or may not want to hit skip based on your personal musical preferences. I will recommend the album. It’s a great bargain. It also provides access to twelve songs that listeners likely don’t own a copy of elsewhere (save for The Ramones, The Velvet Underground, and Devo. There’s no question that if choices had been more carefully made that Alterno-Daze: Origin of the Species would be better than average.
Check out my reviews of the other two Alterno-Daze albums:
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