This collection randomly compiles Dada’s tenure on the now-defunct IRS label, making for a well-sequenced mix of the strongest songs from their first two albums, 1992’s Puzzle and 1994’s American Highway Flower. (Sorry fans — no alternate takes or rare bonus songs here.) Opening with the hushed and pretty “Surround” sets the tone perfectly while reminding everyone how much the early ‘90s retained studio production values from the late ‘80s — like drum kits that were so compressed, they tended to sound a lot like drum machines. “Pretty Girls Make Graves” undulates with watery psychedelia, close harmonies, and endearing Poetry 101 lyrics making for a tune that would sit well on a mix of ‘90s college rock bands like the Ocean Blue and School of Fish. R.E.M.’s subtle influence can be heard on the Rickenbacker jangle of “Feet to the Sun,” but it’s the Smithereens-by-way-of-U2-inspired hit “Diz Knee Land” that’s easily the most indicative of the band, its heyday, and the sound that blurred the line between college and commercial radio back then. “Dim” bookends the compilation with a catchy and successful foray into power pop.
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