SLINT Vinyl & CDs

Review: The 35th anniversary edition of Tweez offers a fascinating glimpse into Slint's early sound. Originally recorded in 1989 and produced by Steve Albini, this remastered version adds new life to an album that's raw and unconventional. Slint's unique blend of punk, indie and math rock feels unpredictable, as songs like 'Ron' explode with distorted guitar and shifting rhythms, creating an intense atmosphere. The album's eerie, unsettling vibe is further emphasised by moments of spoken dialogue and ambient noise, giving it a haunting quality. The newly included tweethan mix, remixed by bassist Ethan Buckler, adds an intriguing perspective to the original tracks. This version strips back some of the Albini production and delivers a cleaner, more direct sound that allows the intricate musicianship to shine. Though Tweez may feel chaotic at times, its raw energy and experimental edge make it a compelling listen, showcasing Slint's early brilliance and setting the stage for their seminal work, Spiderland.

Review: In many ways Spiderland is lucky to exist., Slint weren't exactly the most avid studio band in the world, only recording two full length albums during the five years in which they were properly active. They also disbanded around the time this record was released - 1991 - perhaps even shortly before, which could have scuppered any plans for their difficult second even after they managed to emerge from a recording facility with enough tracks.

But what tracks they are. Spiderland is rightly considered an absolute landmark, an LP that captures the spirit of rock 'n' roll in transition. Leaving one decade behind, and the hardcore punk that had dominated the underground guitar scene, while still retaining those ethics, it has one foot in grunge, another in experimental, another in garage and a fourth somewhere else. Enough limbs to mark it out as a real mutant.