The Celibate Rifles

Although it isn't a greatest-hits collection (like 1993's Sofa), Platters du Jour presents a more well-rounded picture of the Celibate Rifles' talent and versatility (which has only increased over the years). It gathers together all of the Aussie clan's singles -- A-sides, B-sides, alternate takes, remixes, and live versions -- onto one convenient disc. All four tracks from their hard to find 1982 EP, But Jacques, the Fish?, are even included in the mix. The basic sound is hard-rocking punk-pop. The mood is positive, unpretentious, occasionally humorous, and -- just when you least expect it -- socially conscious ("Rain Forest"). Taking their inspiration from the Ramones, the Saints, and the Rolling Stones, the Rifles add a little twang ("Out in the West Again") and surf ("Summer Holiday Blues") to the equation. Covers include a faithful take on the truck-driving classic "Six Days on the Road" (Dave Dudley), a garage-y "Dancing Barefoot" (Patti Smith), and a speedy -- downright exuberant -- "I'm Waiting for the Man," which drains every drop of darkness from the Velvet Underground original. The Australian LP came with a bonus single (sporting the tracks "Instrumental," "Disco Death," and "Junk No. 2"). ~ Kathleen C. Fennessy, All Music Guide