One highlight of Free Yr Radio is the amount of live material. Voxtrot's live version of "Stephen" is spot on, and Sonic Youth's live version of "World Looks Red" (a rare track itself) shows that this indie rock archetype can still rock. Many of the live tracks were recorded specifically for the Free Yr Radio compilation, making the CD that much more rare and significant for the hardcore fan.
There are a few duds as well. For example, Dinosaur Jr.'s lackluster "Yer Son" is on this compilation CD, a song originally included as a 7" single along with the Vinyl release of Dinosaur Jr.'s recent album, Beyond. Musically, it lacks the punch of Dinosaur Jr.'s latest comeback album, and doesn't fit with the rest of the CD's great tracks. Dntel's "The Distance (Metronomy Remix)" also doesn't fit with the album's aesthetic, but is still a great addition for the fan or collector.
Overall, Free Yr Radio is about supporting a cause, and along the way you get some excellent music. Fans of the bands participating will enjoy the rarity of the tracks on this album, and there is a guarantee that the money you put down for this will go directly to non-commercial radio. You can purchase the album at any Urban Outfitters store or online here. Also the Free Yr Radio Web site has a full track listing with information on each song.








Article comments