Back catalogue: Rock

Review: The newly remastered deluxe edition of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' 1982 album Long After Dark is a fresh opportunity to revisit the album's classic rock energy. This edition is a 2xLP set pressed on 180-gram vinyl, which includes 12 rediscovered tracks, seven of them previously unreleased, like 'Never Be You'. With new liner notes by David Fricke, it offers context and insights into the era and Petty's impact. This album, featuring classic tracks like 'You Got Lucky', 'Change of Heart', and 'Straight Into Darkness', is quintessential Tom Pettyifull of straightforward, rootsy rock with a touch of heartland Americana. Petty's sincerity and dedication to his craft shine through, and the remastered sound enhances the listening experience, bringing clarity and depth to the instrumentation that was sometimes overshadowed by the production techniques of the early 1980s. The band's tight instrumentation, highlighted by Mike Campbell's guitar work and Howie Epstein's harmonies, reflects a seasoned group delivering Petty's personal and reflective songwriting with conviction. One of the highlights of Long After Dark is how it balances introspective lyrics with rock anthems. The previously unreleased tracks add a new dimension to this album, offering insights into the sessions and creative direction Petty and his band were exploring at the time. For instance, the track 'Deliver Me' has the Heartbreakers firing on all cylinders, with layered guitars and a propulsive rhythm section that underscores Petty's commanding vocal delivery. This remastered edition not only gives long-time fans a nostalgic trip but also introduces new listeners to the enduring relevance of Petty's music.

Review: Long After Dark by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is a standout album that often doesn't get the recognition it deserves. This nearly ballad-free record, released in 1982, is a cohesive, energetic breakup album. While none of its tracks are typically ranked among Petty's top ten classics, six of the ten songs are essential Petty numbers, filled with prime-era vocal performances and engaging musical arrangements. This new remastered versions comes complete with 12 rediscovered tracks, enhances the sound, bringing more depth to the instrumentation. It's essential listening for Tom Petty fans and highly recommended for lovers of heartland rock. Released on turquoise makes this package extra special. Tracks like 'One Story Town', 'You Got Lucky', 'Deliver Me', 'Change of Heart', 'We Stand a Chance' and 'Straight Into Darkness' stand out, showing the band's great musicianship and Petty's songwriting at its peak. Even the more understated songs like 'Finding Out' have a solid rock energy that excites.'The Same Old You' and 'Between Two Worlds' channel a Rolling Stones-like vibe. Overall, this album is still one of Tom Petty's best.