(LTM)

www.ltmpub.freeserve.co.uk

This is a reissue of the 5^th record by the legendary Factory Records band, originally released in 1986. It was touted as the band's return to its funk roots (jazz too), with some deep, jerky grooves, and while the record eventually sank without a trace at the time it garnered some nice reviews from the (notoriously fickle) U.K. press. In addition to the 8 songs that appeared on the original record this reissue adds 5 B-sides.

"Only Together" opens things up nicely with some meaty bass and smooth vocals while "Naked and White" makes good use of some horn players, and the nearly instrumental single "Mickey Way" was a "Low Rider" for the anorak set. Later on we're treated to the pop gloss of "And Then She Smiles" and bonus tracks like a remix of "Bootsy" (by Robert Racic) and the brooding, driving "The Runner" which came via a rare Italian EP. At times the songs (or parts of the songs) seemed a bit too smooth (think ABC) but all things considered, for a sound this specific, the record has aged really well. Look for more A.C.R reissues coming later this year from the LTM label.

Standout Tracks: "Naked and White", "Mickey Way", "The Runner" TIM HINELY