Stand Out Albums has been a showcase for my favorite albums across the vast performers that I love. Covering a little bit of everything from classic rock to country hits, much like Key Movies of My Life, it has been the albums that shaped me. This year, I am taking a slightly different approach by discussing the discographies of my favorite musicians, album by album, in release order.
Here we come to the end of our Marcy Playground albums, for now at least. Now normally I don’t include compilations and live albums in my reviews but there is something about this one that just demanded to be included. So, this is Lunch, Recess & Detention.
Why This Album?
There’s a bittersweet feeling that comes over me every time I listen to this album. While there have been rumors for years that John and team would be reuniting for another album, the longer that takes to happen makes this complication feel more and more like a way to let go of the past by presenting a retrospectives of everything that came before. From upbeat yet dark jangles like Bang, Bang, Bang to brilliantly simple covers of classics like Needle & the Damage Done, this album seems like it would be a mixed bag, but somehow it works in every single way. Plus, in some cases, you get to hear songs that you may not have heard before seeing as many of these tracks never made it to an album (i.e. Comin up from behind).
While this could never be my favorite of their releases (that honor keeps going to Leaving Wonderland), it is one that reminds me of who and what Marcy Playground is. The trio is one who can both have fun and remain serious in the same sentence then tell you things that you would never believe in the next. They are an eclectic bunch who clearly love making the music they have provided us all over the years and it shows each and every track.
Overall, Lunch, Recess & Detention is one for the fans while also being a tremendous introduction album to new generations who only know the band by their overplayed radio hit, Sex & Candy.
Favorite Tracks
Brand New Day. Originally from MP3, This song could be my favorite of theirs across the board. It’s just that good.
Up and Down. Way back in the MySpace days they provided this and a couple other songs for free. This is the first album release and it still slaps.
Comin’ Up From Behind. Originally from the Cruel Intentions soundtrack, this has always been one of my favorite tracks of theirs.
Ok, Where do I get it?
You’ll have to get this one via discogs because it too seems to be getting harder to find new. Or, as I do, listen via Spotify.
Next up, well, you’ll have to wait till next week wontcha?!
Late to the Game 1/18/22
Thanks for reading, If you would like to read more reviews I have a weekly series called Key Movies Of My Life that comes out every Thursday and also check out some retro tv goodness with the ongoing series Retro TV Reviews here. You can also find a few of my other Music Reviews Here.
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Late to the Game Blog 