Marshall Crenshaw
Yep Roc, 2023
9/10
Largely considered one of the greatest albums of the ‘80s, this self-titled debut from Marshall Crenshaw quickly made him a well known name, and he spent plenty of time on the charts and in the ears of fans across the globe.
Forty years later, we’re treated to an expanded CD anniversary edition of the original album, seven bonus tracks (five of which are previously unreleased), including home demos, B-sides, alternate mixes and live recordings.
The reissue leads with the bright melodies and pop meets New Wave spirit of “There She Goes” and “Someday, Someway”, his breakthrough hit, follows with an infectious jangle and playful dreaminess that made this a constant on the FM dial.
Further on, “The Usual Thing” is harmonically rich, warm and immediately invites singing along, while the uniquely layered “Cynical Girl” embraces throwback rock’n’roll nods amid Crenshaw’s punchy, flowing song craft.
The original album ends on the dynamic and crisp college rocker “Brand New Lover”, and of the bonus material, the previously unreleased live version of “Look At What I Almost Missed” illustrates how well his energy translates on stage, and “(You’re My Favorite) Waste Of Time” offers a raw and upbeat demo that proves just how much his songs resonate even in their infancy.
Aside from his lengthy and exceptional solo career (he’s still active to this day), Crenshaw also co-wrote the Gin Blossoms’ hit “Til I Hear It From You” and even fronted The Smithereens for a bit. Here is where it all started for the legend, though, and 4 decades later it still sounds so great.
Travels well with: The Rubinoos- The CBS Tapes; Alex Chilton- Live In London: Encore Edition