Well Ive had this for a while now and thought I should put some thoughts down. A really nice addition to the collection but certainly no masterpiece. Not sure how it compares to EMD. The original songs on EMD are all outstanding and were the highlights of the cd but not so here.

Wide Open Road- I really enjoy this version. Not as good as the original but nor was it trying to be.

It's No Reason- Am I the only person that thinks this version is a complete dud. The version on the Easy single was so beautiful and there was No Reason to revist it here. Lacks life and warmth.

Reptile- Really love this. Probably my favourite reworking on either of the EM releases.

Tantalized- Dont particularly like this. Interesting on first listen but doest stand repeated listenings..

Electric Lash- fantastic, shame they didnt play this at the shows a few weeks ago.

After Everything- Love the original but dont find this particularly inspiring. To similar to the original but with less emotion.

Song In The Afternoon - Really cruisy bubbly little number that I love. Sounds like they really enjoyed recording this song.

Two Places At Once- Unlike churchcat, Im really glad they had another crack at this. Im a big fan of the original but the chorus is a little overbearing. They have corrected the imbalance here and this may very well be better than the original as a result. This and A new season from EMD would be the only songs from either album that I believe could be considered better than the original's.

Appalatia- actually this is probably better than the original as well but I can think of 100 songs that should have been reworked before this one.

Bordello - mediocre.

Pure Chance- Lovely and the female vocals are a great addition.

Grind- tremendous version. The live version a couple of weeks ago really had to be heard to be believed. Marty was going off like never before.

North, South, East and West- Wonderful stripped down version with lovely harmonies. A highlight of the cd for sure.

Comeuppance - Nice song to finish with.

I really like these cd's. I'd prefer new proper releases but will take anything they give us.

Obviously in making these cd's they weren't trying to better the originals but give us some alternative accoustic versions to enjoy and in this context I think they are wonderful.

They are also really accessable and good winning new fans or getting old fans to jump back on board.

Joffa