China Drum
Xxx
This is about the XXX 30th-ish anniversary rarities release from China Drum; formally consolidating the bands releases (of predominantly) pre-Goosfair, amongst other things. And for someone who considers themselves a lifelong fan of the band; what an absolute delight it is to have this archive collection finally gathered together and released on one album! The artwork immediately shouts out to you and grabs your intrigue and attention. But press play, put the needle on the record, and youre treated to the wonderful, rich sounds of some real classic Drum gems! Original demos of songs that eventually were re-recorded for Goosefair, such as the piss-angry Simple; a reflective and contemplative, acoustic demo of Meaning; along with an acoustic version of the beautifully self-loathing Biscuit Barrel all make a very welcome and wonderful appearance in a very fresh and raw and also very pure presentation. And it was a stunning surprise to hear an earlier version of what I consider *the original* "curveball cover" of the band performing Kate Bushs Wuthering Heights!