Absolute Classic Masterpieces documents the dark jangle pop of
Felt between the years of 1979 and 1985; it's a best-of collection for a band that always deserved more attention. The tracks run in reverse chronological order, starting with "Primitive Painters," a song that charts the territory where
the Cocteau Twins,
the Fall, and
the Smiths overlap, and ending with the very first demo single "Index." The order of the tracks means that you are listening to the band devolve into its influences, and the effect is enjoyable. "Primitive Painters" is a lost treat if ever one existed; along with the next three tracks, it was produced by
Robin Guthrie of
the Cocteau Twins. "Primitive Painters" also features
Elizabeth Frazer of
the Cocteau Twins on vocals.
Guthrie is not the only famed producer whose work appears here; three
John Leckie tracks are also included, from the Strange Idols Pattern & Other Short Stories album. While most of the slower songs appear toward the end of the album, making it a somewhat sleepy affair as it winds down, there are charms like "The World Is as Soft as Lace" to liven things up. "Penelope Tree" sounds a bit like
Lou Reed fronting
the Cure. There's great material to be found throughout the work of
Felt, so this collection would work regardless of its running order. Newcomers looking for their first
Felt album should start here, with the knowledge that there is quite a bit of dark atmosphere layered over the pop charms within. While these songs might not be masterpieces, as the album title would have you believe, there are many near-masterpieces of moody jangle pop just waiting to be rediscovered. ~ Tim DiGravina