Pavement - 'Wowee Zowee' (Domino) Released 06/11/06

Californian indie legends Pavement have collected together 50 of their finest musical offerings for the re-release of ‘Wowee Zowee’. One of the original bands to give rise to the term ‘indie’, they earnt worldwide cult status without the backing of major label. Originally released in 1995, it is often regarded as the fans favourite album. Taking their influences from The Fall and The Groundhogs, songs like ‘Brinx Job’ and ‘Serpentine Pad’ occasionally descend into insane ramblings.

‘Rattled By The Rush’ features their trademark quirky style and off beat guitars that build to a Pixies style showdown. Their mood stays downbeat on ‘Black Out’, though they always keep the same air of hope. Always slightly left of centre ‘Father To A Sister Of Thought’ sounds like Bob Dylan’s younger cousin with pedal steel guitars and half-mumbled vocals. Showing their ability to change styles ‘Best Friends Arm’ more punk rock, showing off their California hardcore influences.

On some songs, like ‘Grave Architecture’ their droning, monotone style can drag a bit, but quirky Ben Kweller style gems like ‘AT and T’ bring it all back.They famously slagged off alt rock bands The Smashing Pumpkins and Stone Temple Plots. Similar at times to the other scene hating band of the 90’s ‘Fight This Generation’ is positively Nirvana. ‘Pueblo’ sees them back to their singalong best, while they really rock out on ‘Half a Cannon’.

There’s a second CD of live sessions and unreleased songs, there are some gems like ‘Dancing With The Elders’ and ‘Easily Fooled’ but it’s probably more for the hardcore Pavement fan.

Following the demise of Pavement in 1999 Steve Malkmus has gone solo performing with his band The Jicks. While a reunion may be on the cards in  a few years, for the time being fans will have to be content with this trip down memory lane.