APB

For APB fans who thought all of the band's worthwhile tracks resided on the exceptional Something to Believe In, The Radio One John Peel Sessions proves otherwise. While a selection or two from the aforementioned Something to Believe In is included here, there is a healthy helping of uncommon tracks featured as well. Covering the years 1981 through 1984, the 19-track set captures APB at their artistic peak -- just as the Scottish band was becoming a regional sensation in the New York Tri-State area. As with several other new wave bassists of the era (Joe Jackson's Graham Maby, Gang of Four's Dave Allen), it's Iain Slater's funky four-string work that leads the musical charge here, especially on the set's opening one-two-three punch -- "My Love," "Higher the Climb," and "Crooner's Lullaby." And while the majority of the tracks on The Radio One John Peel Sessions have not been widely circulated, also included is the Something to Believe In standout "Danceability." It also becomes apparent that many of these tracks are comparable to the sound and approach of the first few Red Hot Chili Peppers albums -- especially "Crazy Grey." The Radio One John Peel Sessions makes a fine follow-up purchase to the aforementioned Something to Believe In. ~ Greg Prato, All Music Guide