Basically, there are two general ways to make a retrospective compilation - one is a more or less random pile-up of songs of a certain band or genre for a quick cash-in due to current popularity (of either). The other is a detailed, meticulous, time-protracted (and often quite expensive) research and preparation, arrangement, along with equally well-prepared liner notes.
Unfortunately, the former usually sells better, while the latter often ends up solely with hardcore fans (and music lovers) who love a discovery of something that just might have been missed.
Well, there’s a brand spanking new three CD compilation of U.S. power pop titled I Wanna Be A Teen Again 1980-1989 prepared by one of key reissue specialists, U.K.’s Cherry Red lRecords.
Music tastes might change, but quality always remains
The compilation squarely falls into the latter category, which brings mostly unknown power pop goodies from some well-knowns, some one-hit wonders, and a pile of practically unknowns (unless you are a hardcore power pop fan) that certainly deserves the attention of any discerning music collector.
So what do we get here? As is usually the case with Cherry Red comps, it is glowing in detailed research, meticulous selection, chronological placement, and equally inspiring liner notes. Even when the included names are widely known (Ramones, the Knack, Cheap Trick, the Bangles, among others), the selection here focuses on lesser-known tracks that deserve attention.
Another focus is original tracks that you might have heard in another version that made it - prime example here “(I’m Always Touched by Your) Presence Dear” that made it as a version by Blondie, originally composed by the band's former bassist, Gary Valentine, who recorded it first with his band, the Know.
Yet, the bulk of over 75 tracks here is by names that might have scratched the surface of public attention (Eric Carmen, the Romantics) or simply didn’t register on the radar of a wider audience (the Floor Models, anyone?), and if you play the whole set through and through, you are hardly to find a dud anywhere here.
And yes, the power pop fans, a genre that just might not be the music flavor most in focus these days, will be the first to go for this one, and they are surely a few generations ahead of current pop lovers (hence the com title). But those who want to find out what they might have missed could easily start here. Those jangly guitars, infectious melodies, and harmony vocals can woo just any listener.