Surfacing out of nowhere in 1996, {^Black Dots} turned out to be an archival release of the best kind, something truly rare and unheard that also captured a band at its best. The liner notes explain the origins of the release: In 1979, fellow DC locals {$the Slickee Boys} heard an even earlier rehearsal tape from {$the Brains} and suggested hooking up with now-legendary DC producer {$Don Zientara}, who had recently opened his {@Inner Ear Studios} in his house. The group duly booked time, set up in the fledging venue and put on a commanding performance. Nearly all the legendary early hits are here, including {&"Pay to Cum,"} {&"Don't Need It,"} {&"Regulator,"} {&"Banned in D.C.,"} {&"How Low Can a Punk Get?"} and {&"Attitude,"} while a number of otherwise unheard or never-recorded elsewhere numbers make {^Black Dots} easily the equal of the {@ROIR} cassette. Some of the changes and quirks are really fun -- {$H.R.}'s mock-cockney sneer throughout a number of songs is one of the last things probably anybody expected to hear. Aside from "new" oldie {&"The Man Won't Annoy Ya,"} the reggae side of the band went largely by the boards this time around, aside from the reedy inflections {$HR} throws in from time to time. Instead it's all monster-rock power -- {$Dr. Know} plays like a man possessed, {$Darryl Aaron Jenifer} does it low and loud, while {$Earl Hudson} overcomes for the slightly hollow drum sound with sheer manic smashes and just enough control. Absolutely necessary for {$Brains} fans or anyone who appreciates the power of live, loud electric music. ~ Ned Raggett, All Music Guide