Various Artists
Take Time to Listen, Vol. II
Reviewed by Chris Well
While this could easily have just been your usual record company sampler, what makes Take Time to Listen Vol. II stand out is the inclusion of special tracks. Kicking off with a previously unreleased track from the superlative Dime Store Prophets, "Come Back" is highlighted by both the sampled anti-rock rantings of a preacher and the hand-jive shuffle of the song itself. There is also a cool remake of the Posies' "I Can Dream All Day" by Seven Day Jesus. And there are two sneak previews each for three newly-signed artists: the ska-core group Five Iron Frenzy (although the roughness of these mixes do no justice to this incredible group); Dryve (the earthy rock and rich harmonies are amazing); and vocalist Sherri Jongeward. With the collection rounded out by the jangly, college rock of Black Eyed Sceva, the strange surf-wave pop of Yum Yum Children, the industrial praise of Mortal and the haunting, floating mood music of Rivulets and Violets, there is truly a smorgasbord of modern pop here, with something for most listeners. And, with all 16 songs selling for less than $5, this disc is probably the best deal you'll find today.