If You're Frightened of Dying (Rec Records)

Reviewed by Theresa Killebrew

2004 is proving to be a great year in which to love music and live in Chicago. While two or three noteworthy songs can make a compilation well worth its price, especially when coupled with the added bonus of having the means to discover other new bands, this Rec Records 2004 release If You're Frightened of Dying is worth it's weight in platinum. Featuring tracks from the Ghost, and Brian Moss side project Hanalei, Long Distance Runner, Rescue and longtime Chicago survivors Tubring, the compilation pleads the case for diversity in music, literally, right on the liner notes. Patrick and Brandon, the masterminds behind Rec Records, have included a compelling letter to music fans in Chicago and everywhere. What is their brilliant idea? "We want to bring you music without baggage."

I'll take it. Although leaning toward heavier influences including Fugazi era punk and some pretty intense death metal vocals, the cd has strong tracks in several indie styles, from a spicy Pogues-like world punk offering by Tubring, to a Seattle early 90's era throwback from Divide by Zero. There's a little "screamo" and some straight up metal and the ladies are represented too. This compilation smartly plays to a commonly held and accurate belief that music lovers are not bound by the limits of one genre. A quick glance at an indie record collection will reveal this to be the truth. It's a good representation of what's going on in Chicago right now, and a good way to maximize your listening time in the car.

Originally posted in Issue 1.1, August 2004