'Exile' reissue is essential
When it comes to the remastered version of the Rolling Stones’ “Exile On Main St.,” it’s pointless to discuss the original 18 songs. After being given a generally lukewarm reception upon its initial release, the album has become a career-defining moment for the Stones and has stood the test of time as a true classic. The real pearls come with the 10 recently unearthed bonus tracks.
While sorting through the 38-year-old master tapes, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards happened upon a disheveled collection of unfinished instrumentals and nearly completed studio recordings that would become the second CD in this set. In some cases, such as “So Divine (Alladine Story)” and “I’m Not Signifying,” Jagger had to write lyrics from scratch and record new vocals, but even with the added grooming, the extra songs remain worthy of release.
The opening one-two punch of “Pass The Wine (Sophia Loren)” and “Plundered My Soul” could have fit easily into any of the Stones’ mid-’70s releases. Both songs have the swaggering riffs and gritty lyrics that built the playbook for bands like Aerosmith and The Black Crowes. “Good Time Women” provides a glimpse into the main riff and chorus that eventually morphed into “Tumbling Dice.”
Two alternate takes, a slower version of “Loving Cup” and “Soul Survivor” with Richards on vocals, provide a fascinating look at the recording process and show the influence of producer Jimmy Miller on the project. An otherwise unknown name, Miller is real hero of the “Exile” project for wisely paring down two months worth of recorded output into the strongest 18 tracks that make up the double album. While the 10 bonus tracks on this remastered release are certainly worth hearing, Miller obviously picked the best of the lot for the final release.
All 10 previously unreleased cuts have the same torn-and-frayed-around-the-edges feeling that makes “Exile” a rock ’n’ roll masterpiece. None of the new/old songs surpass the core of the album’s original material, but the bonus tracks definitely add to the legend, much the same way as deleted scenes are added to a Hollywood blockbuster on DVD. At the end of the day, “Exile On Main St.” is essential listening for any music fan.
Rating: W W W W 1/2