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Sep 12, 2017 Web Exclusive By Matthew Berlyant

Although only two post-Big Star tracks that he recorded in 1974 and 1975 were released during Chris Bell‘s short lifetime, some of the recordings finally came out as I Am the Cosmos in 1992 on Rykodisc and again in 2009 as an expanded two-disc set on Rhino Handmade. The venerable Omnivore label has upped the ante once again with another double-disc set featuring 10 tracks not on either of the previous reissues. The new set also contains liner notes from co-producer Alec Palao and Replacements biographer Bob Mehr, as well as never before seen photographs. With great sound quality, it is the perfect place for neophytes to start and for long-time fans, it is a treat for those who don’t want to shell out or wait for the even more comprehensive, upcoming 6(!) album vinyl box set due in November and a great CD accompaniment for those who do. For those who have never heard this material, it is at times uncomfortable in its aching sweetness and longing, but never less than gorgeous. Like an alternate world Paul McCartney, he ranges from upbeat rockers like “I Got Kinda Lost” to more contemplative fare like the oft-covered title track and its great B-side, “You and Your Sister.” (www.omnivorerecordings.com/artist/chris-bell/)

Author rating: 8.5/10