SCIENTISTS - Swampland: Birth Of The Scientists CD

Formed in Perth, Australia, but later to relocate to Melbourne and then London, Kim Salmon's Scientists played a brand of minimalist punked-up swamp blues that saw them become legends on at least three continents. Just about everyone loves the Scientist, from Sonic Youth and Mudhoney (both of whom have asked the band to play with them) to Henry Rollins - in fact, the entire US alt-rock hierarchy. And what's not to like - this new compilation for the UK features the strongest tracks from the band's legendary Blood Red River recordings, notably 'Swampland', one of the most evocative and best loved Australian songs of all time.
But that's not all: as well as the studio recordings, with Kim's permission we've unearthed some dynamite live recordings from 1982 that have never been released anywhere before. The packaging includes a mammoth essay on the band's history written by Alex Ogg, with full co-operation and humorous asides from Kim, plus photos and memorabilia. A handy starting point for those new to the band, featuring as it does the cream of the Scientists' work from their acclaimed early Melbourne period, but spiced up with some amazing live tracks for the established fan.

Swampland / This Is My Happy Hour / When Fate Deals Its Mortal Blow / Set It On Fire / Revhead / Burnout / The Spin / Blood Red River / Nitro / Solid Gold Hell / Murderess In A Purple Dress / Backwards Man / Fire Escape / Perpetual Motion (Live) / Tiger Tiger (Live) / When Worlds Collide (Live) / Swampland (Live) / Strangers In The Night (Live) / When Worlds Collide (Live) / The Spin (Live) / Revhead (Live)