Jay Reatard’s latest collection of singles is a triumph. Having fully embraced the ephemeral nature of the contemporary recording industry, Reatard has found the freedom to create music that knows it isn’t going to stand the test of time and glories in it. This freedom has led him to write songs that blister and pop upon the listener’s consciousness in a way that is really quite bracing.
But the singles aren’t all punk fury. Acoustic guitars show up on the last three tracks, toning down the intensity of the musical attack, but not restraining Reatard’s lyrical vitriol (see the appearance of the c-word on “I’m Watching You”). And even when Jay’s vocal assault is backed by fierce guitar work, there hides, behind the damaged vocals and indie production values, real pop sensibilities. These are songs that would get airtime on MTV if they were sung by a handsome twenty-something with a faux-hawk, wrist tattoos, and eyeliner.
The fact that Reatard can make them palatable to the snottier indie crowd is a testament to his skill as a musician and songwriter. This collection is a testament to a prolific artist who deserves to have his day in the sun. Here’s hoping his next full-length displays the same mastery.
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