Jesus Loves the Left

Album Review

This 20-track compilation includes everything from the Left's sole EP (1984's It's the World) and sole LP (1985's Last Train to Hagerstown), as well as the track they contributed to the 1983 compilation Train to Disaster ("You're So") and four previously unissued 1992 recordings. It's the complete legacy of a band who, though they didn't get a ton of press while active, stood up to much of what was recorded by better-known bands of the period that kept the punk flame burning. Close to, but not quite, hardcore, it was a pinch more melodic and indebted to hard rock, metal, and garage than much other punk of the time, though many hardcore elements were there in the pummeling rapid rhythms, defiant and nasty lyrics, sullen yet anthemic singing, and darkly brooding riffs. The four 1992 tracks are fairly similar in tone to their mid-'80s work, though these were done by a slightly altered lineup, with Rod Smith replacing Kevin Sefsic on bass. The CD also features historical liner notes, photos, and artwork done for their original vinyl releases.