Various Artists - Metrojets, Vol. 1

All Music Guide

Like the Shake Some Action series of pop comps, this impressive CD throws together extremely rare A-sides from some of the unsung bands of the late '70s and early '80s. If you were lucky enough to have heard these singles the first time around, then enjoy them again. If you've never heard them before, then pull up a chair and enjoy. You'll love this if you love your power pop gooey and sweet From the unknown to the obscure, the 14 bands here may not have achieved fame and fortune, but they gave their fans a lifetime of memories. Some of the real gems here are the Realists' "I've Got a Heart," Straight Eight's "I'm Sorry," Stumblebunny's "When You Walk Away," the Boys' (not the British punk band) "(Baby) It's You," and the Blades' "Hot for You" (good song, bad title). Other bands with impressive tracks include Advertising, da Biz, Sponsors, the Fans, and Speedometers. Oddly enough, legendary music journalist Nick Kent delivers a substandard stab at new wave with his band the Subterranea...ns and their single "My Flamingo." Don't they say that all music journalists are just frustrated musicians? Anyway, this CD is a welcome surprise for pop fans looking for those real gems that may have passed them by the first time. (Whether this CD is legal and legit remains to be seen, as there are no copyrights listed anywhere on the CD.) - Stephen SPAZ Schnee, All Music Guide Read more Less