“Better Than Something” is a loving look at Jay Reatard towards the end of his life. The 50 page booklet, the choice cuts on the LP and the DVD material was a three fold punch to the ears. While I’m not a fan of Reatard, I was familiar with the guy’s music due to being so close to his home area. However, it felt a little too rough at times.
As a guy who grew up on metal and punk, I was surprised that I found Reatard to be so rough. But, as the years carried on, it was neat to hear his sound evolve. Factory 25 has been releasing these DVD/Vinyl releases that cater to the most hardcore of audiophiles. Hopefully, they don’t puss out and start going after major artists.
This is a strong attempt at building a bridge between the obscure and the hipster consciousness. If we can get more of the Pitchfork crowd to start taking music like this seriously, then Factory 25 has done the Lord’s work. By the Lord, I mean Dio. Dio would approve of this release.
TRACK LIST
01 Jay Reatard: “Such a Shame” (TV Rennes 2008)
02 The Reatards: “Bummer Bitch” (Gonerfest 2005)
03 The Reatards: “No One Stands Me” (Gonerfest 2005)
04 Lost Sounds: “I Get Nervous” (VPRO 2005)
05 Lost Sounds: “Tyrants Head” (VPRO 2005)
06 Angry Angles: “You Call It Love” (Gonerfest 2005)
07 Jay Reatard: “Let It All Go” (SXSW 2007)
08 Lost Sounds: “Better Than Somethings” (1998)
09 Jay Reatard: “Fading All Away” (Studio Brussel 2009)
10 Jay Reatard: “Death Is Forming” (Crystal Ballroom 2008)
11 Jay Reatard: “Not a Substitute” (Stuy Town NYC 2009)
12 Jay Reatard: “Waiting for Something” (Walter’s 2009)
13 Jay Reatard: “Nightmares” (Studio Brussel 2009)
14 Jay Reatard: “Let It All Go” (France 2008)
Release Date: 8/14/15