Entomology
The latest Domino reissue of obscure Scottish indie-pop is a 22-track look at the work of a group that was part of the exceptional, early '80s Postcard label scene. Booksmart enough to name themselves after an ill-fated Kafka protagonist, there's nothing pretentious about their music, a propulsive mixture of funk bass and angular guitars. It might remind the listener of the Bodines, Franz Ferdinand, Wedding Present, Big Flame, the June Brides, and of course label mates Orange Juice. The lyrics might lean toward the downer side, but this makes for a splendid contrast with the delightfully taut punk-pop the band made to the utter delight of almost no one (at the time). Even if you're lucky, smart, and/or old enough to own the group's original releases, you'll want this for its judicious inclusion of previously unreleased material. Make up for lost time and embrace these wonderful smartypants-es today.--Mike McGonigal