Collecting material from the beginning of the bands history (early demos, etc.) to recently recorded studio tracks, WE ALWAYS KNEW BETTER serves as a to-date collection of material they've recorded (a best of amongst demos, etc.). And on their debut release, too. With this in mind, the disc does a good job of showcasing growth and maturity inside of the band. The disc jumps from rough tracks that center around a loose band slowly maturing into a team, to a sound that shows they're capable of serving up a hot hook backed by a spicy upbeat.

Sliding between these two types of settings, one minute the disc starts to wear out on you, and then the next minute you're hooked -- dancing and singing along. The overall tone of the disc is that of a rough band that, although they've grown and become a band that sounds comfortable and able to produce a catchy track, they haven't reached their full potential.

With plenty of time to reach their peak, this disc is a good stepping stone into their world. Not always the catchiest, tightest, or most appealing, the disc definitely has some good moments that make it shine. I'll give it a C.

Freak Accident, The: The Freak Accident

Frederic Galliano and the African Divas: Self-Titled

[Issue Sixteen // January-February 1999]