Ike Reilly's new album isn't really new at all, although the music is new, at least as it's being presented here. The two discs comprise a CD that includes five demos and alternate versions of old album tracks, a half-dozen song initially intended for, but not included on past albums, and a pair of previously unreleased numbers, alongside a second disc, a DVD containing three videos. The demos/alternates are a fascinating group, with three -- "Hip Hop Thighs #16," "Duty Free," and "Cash Is King" all brighter and more upbeat than the ones
Reilly utilized on album. In contrast, "Fish Plant Rebellion" is much more downtempo and stripped back musically, while "It's Alright to Die" is totally transformed, far removed from the rockin' R&B track that featured on
Sparkle in the Finish. All are worth hearing, but fans will be far more interested in the batch of never-before released in any form songs. The anthemic "Dragonflies" is the standout of the batch, with its upbeat message,
Rolling Stone-ish style, and
Phil Spector-esque production, although the title track "Poison the Hit Parade" is nearly as good. That's an aggressive song that lyrically brings chaos to a local college, and tips a hat to R&B even as it burns down
the Jam's "Funeral Pyre." "Janie Doesn't Lie" sounds even more dangerous, with
Reilly re-creating the fuzz guitars and edginess of
the Velvet Underground. The other numbers give way to the artist's twist on folk, with "Lust Song 78" crackling with electricity and "New Assassination Blues" bristling with a punk-y punch. Incidentally, the C&W-styled "The Train Bomber" with its ambiguous lyrics was actually written about
Reilly's young and, like most small boys, extremely destructive son. Only once or twice will fans understand why any of these numbers didn't make it onto disc, but will be grateful that now they all have. A superb set that captures
Reilly's many moods and musical adventures. ~ Jo-Ann Greene