Never officially released but frequently bootlegged, this album clearly shows Alex Chilton reinventing pop music in a way that clearly spoke to the rise of "alternative" music. Two of the songs were later covered on the ground breaking "This Mortal Coil - It'll End in Tears" album from British indie label 4AD. The mix on this version is very well done and the heavy vinyl pressing makes the most of it. An album that was simply too far ahead of it's time to gain the recognition it richly deserves.

Unfortunately, the first time I heard this legendary record, I heard it on the Rykodisc CD re-issue.

Not to say that the music wasn't still enjoyable, but hearing it here on this outstanding, high-fidelity, 180g vinyl is a whole different experience. Plus, it's in the original order, so the authenticity here is another giant perk to this edition.

The transfer is superb- No noticeable noise or distortion, and a natural and warm tone throughout (but especially on acoustic guitar and on Chilton's masterfully shaky voice). "Blue Moon" was already one of my favorite Big Star tunes, and hearing it here was a lasting joy. Every track sounds better than ever.

There's not too much else to say except that this is a masterpiece and a must-own, especially on heavy-weight vinyl.

Definitely worth your money.

R.I.P. Alex Chilton

If you're familiar with Rykodisc's earlier remixed, resequenced version of this amazing album, then be assured that's what this is.

What this isn't is a CD version of the original LP (original mix, original track sequence) as recently released on vinyl by 4 Men with Beards. The only thing about this release that is accurate to the original album is its cover, which also includes the original track listing. But it has nothing to do with the actual contents of the CD.

Note: Rykodisc's bonus tracks are included on this release.