I want to go back to The Damned, but focus alternately that Seattle compilation album. I stumbled upon Another Damned Seattle Compilation in the early 90s when I was regularly perusing a variety of record stores. You know, during the time in your life when you have more disposable income than you realize and don’t fully appreciate until 20 years and several kids later.
Other than it being focused on The Damned, a band I rather like, there were a few individual participating bands that were selling points for me. The Young Fresh Fellows of course, but also Hammerbox, The Posies, Mudhoney, The Fastbacks and Flop were bands I liked so that was more than enough for me to plunk down my money and pick it up. Of course The Young Fresh Fellows on any compilation was just about enough to secure my money.
“Fan Club” (The Damned)
“Fan Club (covered by The Young Fresh Fellows)
Most of the songs here are “straight” cover versions of the original. Sure, the guitars are a bit fuzzier for the most part (remember when this was released) but the versions presented here don’t stray too far from the original. Hammerbox’s version of “New Rose” is an exception where the band puts their own spin on the song (as heard in last week’s post).
“I Just Can’t Be Happy Today (The Damned)
“I Just Can’t Be Happy Today” (covered by Love Battery)
I listened to this compilation a lot the first decade to so after it was released. Actually I think I’ve listened to it more than I have most of my albums by the band covered.
“Smash It Up” (The Damned)
“Smash It Up (covered by The Posies)
Sadly I have never heard any of these cover versions live. I have seen a number of the bands featured on this compilation numerous times, and not once was there a cover of The Damned. Shouldn’t have expected to, really.
“Stab Your Back” (The Damned)
“Stab Your Back” (covered by Mudhoney)
If you ever get the chance I do recommend picking this compilation up. A decent snapshot of the city in the early 90s as well as a tribute to one of the most pioneering and under-appreciated punk rock bands.