Pitchfork

Here's a collection of various EPs and singles the Apples put out between the summers of '93 and '95. The thing about these types of collections is that they're usually comprised of stuff that didn't make it to albums for a reason. Not so, in this case. It truly is exactly what it claims to be: lots of good shit you would otherwise have missed out on.

The feelgood, happy melodies are quick and catchy, and your first taste of the goodness comes with "Tidal Wave", a song about splashing in puddles. The trip ends pleasantly still with the engrossing, body-shaking happiness of "Rocket Pad". Everything in between is equally charming. Science Faire's going to be taking a permanent rest in my CD collection somewhere between the Amps and the Archers of Loaf. Maybe you should check it out, too.