Jay Reatard — Matador Singles '08

Memphis miscreant Reatard released six slabs of seven-inch vinyl for Matador Records in 2008 and, to end the annum in barf-infused style, the label has assembled the singles in a single CD package with an extra track. The album runs short and the scorching garage punk just oozes effortlessly out of Reatard's mouth, proving his proficiency if there was any doubt. Reatard is one of the few punk artists of the '00s who's able to freshen the otherwise tired punk formula while retaining an undeniable urgency that recalls and, in some instances, trumps the efforts of such forefathers as the Buzzcocks, Johnny Thunders and early Replacements. This notion is best exemplified by white hot nuggets like "See/Saw" and "Always Waning More," but don't ignore the dirge-y weirdness of "Flourescent Grey" from hissplit single with Deerhunter — a sign that this Reatard might have a few new tricks up his sleeve for 2009 and beyond.

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