Various Artists – Remain Alone (A Disciples Compilation)

Many years ago, I was enthralled with the music of 4AD artist His Name Is Alive, but lost track of what they were doing.  That’s a shame, as Warren Defever has continued to be involved in great music, and this one has to be one of the most interesting I’ve seen in a while, as it’s a paean to Roky Erickson and The Thirteenth Floor Elevators.

Defever isn’t the only star on this compilation, however.  Also featured are Phew (best known for her work with Can in the West) and Model Home, a band out of Washington, D.C., who left me feeling quite impressed with a sound that reminds me a bit of Suicide.  The comp is rounded out by Ian Masters of the Pale Saints performing with Nick Davidson as 3 Eyed Monkey, who bridge this album with a song loaded with farfisa-laden bliss.  For those who are happy to bridge shoegaze with garage rock.