Now, if that name isn't as instantly recognizable to the unabashed masses as, for example, their fellow Illinoians Cheap Trick, their SOUND surely continues to pop up a quarter century later in only the very best of musical contexts. Why, listen no further than the all-star cast herein (Matthew Sweet, SparkleJets UK, Shane Faubert and Masticators, to namecheck only four out of twenty-two) to hear how very fruitfully -- and downright faithfully -- The Shoes Sound continues to weave its very own melodic magic amongst all its six-stringed offspring the world over.

Of course, it IS the SONGS (stupid), and Shoesongs never were less than wholly durable. This magnificent collection proves that, once AND for all of you.

Various Artists: Saw - The Movie Soundtrack

VARIOUS ARTISTS: Shout!: The Revolutionary Rave-Up Alive 1997-2003

[Issue Sixty-One // July-August 2003]