Various Artists - 1980 Forward - 25 Years Of 4AD (4AD) album review

Over the last quarter century, 4AD has brought the world such undisputed underground figureheads as Pixies, Nick Cave (with The Birthday Party), Throwing Muses, The Breeders, Cocteau Twins and, er, Lush. The label even scored a surprise UK No1 in 1987, when Colourbox and AR Kane clubbed together as M/A/R/R/S and created the mighty 'Pump Up The Volume'. But rather than trot out yet another compilation featuring 'Debaser' and 'Cannonball' and whatnot, label founder Ivo Watts-Russell has delved into his enviable catalogue to create a joyously uncompromising, idiosyncratic treat. Not a hit in sight, but not a duff track either: TV On The Radio's 'New Health Rock', Tarnation's gorgeous 'Two Wrongs' and Pale Saints' 'Sight Of View' are but three singular gems hiding within.

Charlie Ivens

originally appeared in The Fly magazine, November 2005 issue