First in a series of releases meant to, indeed, cover the band's many compilation appearances, this collection of material also serves as an overview of VanPortfleet and company's recording history. Subtitled "The Arizona Years," Compilation Appearances consists of material composed and recorded... [+] Expand

First in a series of releases meant to, indeed, cover the band's many compilation appearances, this collection of material also serves as an overview of VanPortfleet and company's recording history. Subtitled "The Arizona Years," Compilation Appearances consists of material composed and recorded from 1990 to 1994, when the group was based out of Phoenix. While more fractured than Lycia's full-length releases, given that the almost severe uniformity of mood the albums demand from a listener, the individual joys of VanPortfleet's darkly appealing music more than make up for it. Arranged chronologically, the collection begins with cuts from an early Projekt label sampler, done when Fair still worked with VanPortfleet. The aggressive drumming on "Down" alone marks out the song as distinct from the shadowy howl of Lycia's other early material, while VanPortfleet's vocal rasp is astonishingly clear, much different from his usual echoing shroud. From there the tracks include both outtakes and alternate versions from regular albums like Ionia and A Day in the Stark Corner and selections from aborted sessions and side projects. Perhaps the most fascinating material comes courtesy of a stillborn effort entitled "Dust." While consisting of the usual performers -- Galas mixed its five tracks, while Fair rejoined VanPortfleet to handle drum programming -- here Lycia aim for an in-your-face approach that's reminiscent of Bleak, but even more amped up and out for blood. Two intriguing covers come from the Of These Reminders release on Projekt, consisting of that label's acts reworking songs by its flagship group, Black Tape for a Blue Girl. The fusion of Lycia's performing style with Black Tape's emotional extremes makes for a thrilling combination. In light of Lycia's uncertain existence in the 21st century, this album makes for a must-have for fans and a reasonable start for newcomers alike. ~ Ned Raggett, All Music Guide [-] Collapse

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