At least this mediocre compilation of Vancouver bands benefits a worthy cause. Vancouver Special is a celebration of pop commemorating the small-time vintage shop The Good Jacket; Mint Records is also donating the proceeds to the HIV charity called "A Loving Spoonful."

Featuring a collection of indie acts who at some point played at The Good Jacket, the common tone throughout this compilation stretches from gentle to goofy to playful. A lighthearted presence remains on Vancouver Special; the standouts of female-fronted pop (the New Pornographers and Neko Case, Vancouver Nights, and Pepper Sands) are worthwhile. The rest of this release, however, is a collection of uninspired indie. One is moved to give their money to "A Loving Spoonful" directly instead of having this take up room in a CD collection. ~ Mike DaRonco, All Music Guide