Up from the Catacombs: The Best of Jane's Addiction

iTunes Review

“Been Caught Stealing,” Jane’s Addiction’s biggest mainstream hit, introduced many to the California band’s countercultural philosophy: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, in this case via shoplifting. It’s hilarious, and not just because of the video, with its turkey-swiping crossdresser. As Up From the Catacombs demonstrates, JA’s blend of metal guitars (Dave Navarro), punk attitude, and the general embrace of a slightly blurry “alternative” wasn’t always so bright. Collecting tracks from four studio LPs and a revamped “Jane Says” from the Kettle Whistle grab bag, the set captures many of Perry Farrell’s lyrical brainstorms matched with what was at its best a very powerful sonic blend. “Had a Dad” bemoans life under an apparently empty sky, while “Ted, Just Admit It” is Farrell’s overblown statement on a violent society. (“Ted” is Bundy, the serial killer who was still awaiting execution when the song was recorded.) Catacombs draws largely on a pre-Nevermind moment, but finds the quartet’s ethos still exciting. Turn it up.