The Undertones - True Confessions: Singles A's + B's

Most famous for their debut hit single, Teenage Kicks,  punk legends The Undertones have inspired a whole host of musicians for decades. This recently re-released compilation confirms why, packed full of memorable choruses and catchy melodies.

Not a greatest hits package as such, this is instead a chronological collection of singles, accompanied by their b-sides, spread over two discs. It’s an interesting approach, and is one that definitely pays off, as sometimes the b-sides outshine the singles they accompany.

Littered with short, spiky punk song, the first disc represents The Undertones as we have come to know and love them: hits like Jimmy Jimmy, Here Comes The Summer, and the aforementioned Teenage Kicks sit blissfully alongside brilliant b-sides like You’ve Got My Number (Why Don’t You Use It!) and the preposterously short-but-catchy I Don’t Wanna See (You Again).

As the compilation progresses onto the second disc, however, the Undertones’ sound broadens and diversifies, seemingly encompassing a wide range of musical genres. From the acousticy Wednesday Week and its rockabilly b-side I Told You So, to the soul-flavoured Got To Have You Back, this disc represents the more experimental later days of the band.

Not merely chronicling The Undertones’ finest moments, this album is a fantastic retrospective of an iconic punk band and the journey which their music took them on. Without a doubt, it’s one for hardcore fans and casual listeners alike.

ES