This is a really cool album. Albums where artists revisit old material can be annoying and redundant. This doesn't feel that way at all. The broad scope of the tracklist prevents this from ever feeling too much of a specific rehash. The production is generally impeccable.
The performances are superb, sounding both practiced and in-the-moment. This version of the band is absolutely killer. I'd be happy if this is the touring and recording configuration for the next couple years.
"Hung Bunny / Roman Dog Bird" is barely familiar. This rendition is roughly what they played on Melvins TV/Livestream Obscene. But with the high quality recording, acoustic instruments and spacious mixing here, the new harmonies and arrangement make this basically a new song.
"Halo of Flies" is the same version from Slithering Slaughter but remains a huge highlight.
"Oven" is wicked cool here. There's a voice in the middle section that might be Steven. Whoever it is, I was surprised at how young it sounds.
Much like the first King Buzzo album, there are delay effects, vocal processing, and some mixing choices that help keep the sound from being monotonous.
The new (and newish) covers:
"Everybody's Talking" is a solid version, featuring Pinkus banjo and vocals. The spirit of Nilsson is here, a true tribute free of any mockery or weird choices.
"Sway" a very laidback version. If this tune were played out of context for the first time and someone told me it was an outtake from The Spaghetti Incident, would I be able to refute it? Probably not.
"Woman" absorbs the second half of "Eye Flys" and it's another cornerstone of this album.
"Charlie" is Steven's song still. This version fits the record, but is probably inferior to the studio electric version from Escape From LA.
"Outside Chance" also the same as Slithering Slaughter. This tune has grown on me. It feels much more 'at home' on this sprawling record.
"Flypaper" I'll have to let this one sink in. I liked it but can't say I understand it yet.
Some other highlights so far: "Evil New War God," "Boris," "Shevil," "With Teeth," and "Civilized Worm."
