We all know that dream pop begins and ends with Mazzy Star. Specifically the opening track on this album. "Fade Into You" set the template that so many could only hope to fill. That country tinged heroin trip, punctuated by Hope Sandoval's haunting vocals and that ever present tambourine, rising and falling on a woozy sea of reverb, may never be matched. Perhaps it leaves the album feeling a little unbalanced, as there is so much more to Mazzy Star. Sandoval and producer David Roback's material has much more depth and propensity for abrasiveness than "Fade Into You" may suggest. Just check out their debut if you need further reference. The chunky, distorted blues of "Wasted" is a good place to look with this album. As is the title track, which slowly explodes into incoherence over its 7 minute plus running time. Don't be shy though, as Mazzy Star have much to offer you.

• violet splatter colored vinyl
• indie exclusive
• includes printed insert
• limited edition
• original release year: 1993
• music label: Capitol 2024

reviewed by Hank Ohs 01/2015