Zum's second compilation features 21 of indie rock and pop's most engaging acts. The collection kicks off with
Sterling Silver's short and poppy "The Cliff," which is followed by the precise and instrumental "Strongdar" by math rock superstars
Dianogah, featuring two bass players.
Modest Mouse's "Buttons to Push the Buttons" is a definite standout, while California's
Mondo Crescendo features sultry and intriguing vocals by
Jennifer Taylor.
Grandaddy's "Ghost of 1672" is a short and simple track, while
Windsor for the Derby checks in with a frantic untitled effort. Drums and keyboards stand out on
I Am Spoonbender's song, while
My Favorite's "Absolute Beginners Again (aka The Preppy Murder Song)" flourishes in the band's retro-pop glory.
Aerial M's monotonous and trance-like "Lay" gives way to the somber "Sin & Death" by
Songs: Ohia.
Allen Clapp's brand of summery pop checks in on "In a Foreign Land," while
Doug Shepherd's "Living Backwards" closes the disc with an organ-laced, low-key approach. In the end, the disc is able to serve as a cohesive compilation of a variety of forward-thinking bands. The Berkley, CA-based Zum label released the disc in 1998.