The Dream Syndicate

The Dream Syndicate Tell Me When It’s Over 12″

This UK-only release offers the title cut (taken from their LP) and three live tracks. I’ve heard them play a lot wilder than this. “Tell Me When It’s Over” presents the band in one of their earliest and probably tamest performances, as if they’re afraid they won’t hear each other if they turn up the volume. So you gotta play this loud enough to make any sense of it. Here, they kiss their garage band days goodbye, and the comparison to the VELVET UNDERGROUND holds less water. Great liner notes, though.

• Reviewer Ray Farrell
• Label Rough Trade
• Issue MRR #11 • January/February 1984

The Dream Syndicate The Days of Wine and Roses LP

The first album by this Southern California band lives up to and exceeds previous expectations. The sound has been polished since their first EP, but you still won’t find a better metallic guitar attack anywhere. New favorites for old fans are “Halloween,” “Until Lately,” and the title track. A “punk” record.

• Reviewer John Silva
• Label Ruby
• Issue MRR #3 • November/December 1982

The Dream Syndicate Sure Thing 12″

What more can be said about this record that hasn’t already been said? The power contained in this record is awesome. Guitar distortion and feedback, along with great songs make this one of the best discs of ’82. Reviewers have said it sounds like the VELVET UNDERGROUND, but your best bet is to listen for yourself. Watch for new LP soon.

• Reviewer John Silva
• Label Down There
• Issue MRR #2 • September/October 1982