Big Black

An indispensable compilation, The Rich Man's Eight Track Tape combines Big Black's monumental Atomizer LP with the following Headache EP and "Heartbeat" three-song single. While Atomizer undoubtedly remains one of the standout records of the mid-'80s underground scene, the Headache EP (released a year following) doesn't belong on the same playing field, although it's fine in its own right. Had Headache been released prior to Atomizer, it would probably be held in higher regard. Obviously not a fan of the compact disc medium, Steve Albini goes to great lengths in the packaging and on the disc itself to encourage the consumer to scratch, fingerprint, and eat off of the CD. He also reminds the listener that the format taking the title was state-of-the-art in the early '70s. Regardless of the medium and its supposed limitations, The Rich Man's Eight Track Tape is worth seeking out. ~ Andy Kellman, All Music Guide