This is Music: The Singles

Remember the rush of hearing those first chords, that unmistakable blend of haunting melodies and gritty lyrics? The Verve brought an electric pulse to the ’90s alt-rock scene, a soundscape that still reverberates in the hearts of music lovers today. Now, with the release of That’s Music: The Singles, you have a chance to revisit that raw energy, this time pressed onto rich, vivid vinyl that captures every nuance of their artistry.

Originally released in 2004, this compilation album took us on a journey through the highs and lows of The Verve’s storied career, but in 2024—just in time for its 20th anniversary—it’s getting a spectacular makeover. This reissue is not just a nostalgia trip; it’s a full-bodied celebration of their evolution, showcasing the band’s most captivating singles in a way that vinyl was born to deliver. Imagine the needle dropping, the familiar crackle of this record as the opening track spins to life and transports you back to the era of oversized flannel shirts and smoky club nights.

Gone are the bonus tracks from the original release; they’ve been replaced with gems from the band’s powerful 2008 reunion album, Forth. With tracks like “Love Is Noise” and “Rather Be,” you can feel the same urgency and passion that made you fall in love with their sound in the first place. And let’s not forget the exhilarating, full-length version of “She’s A Superstar,” a track that runs over eight minutes of glorious sonic exploration, enabling you to fully immerse yourself in its transcendent journey.

This 2 LP set isn’t just another record; it is a shrine to the band’s legacy, a beautifully curated collection that speaks to both die-hard fans and newcomers alike. The rich, vibrant sound of vinyl adds layers of depth to each track, making you feel every moody lyric and soaring guitar riff as if you were experiencing them live. Feel the energy surge through you as you connect with the music in a way that digital formats simply can’t replicate.

Manufactured by Virgin, the quality of this reissue is nothing short of impeccable. Measuring at 12.27 x 12.22 inches and weighing in at a robust 1.09 pounds, that is a physical artifact meant to be cherished, displayed, and, most importantly, played. As you drop the needle, you’re not just listening; you’re partaking in a ritual that honors the very essence of what made The Verve a cornerstone of alternative rock.

So, gather your friends, dim the lights, and let That’s Music: The Singles breathe life back into your vinyl collection. Whether you’re reminiscing about the past or discovering this sound for the first time, prepare to be entranced by the magic of The Verve, a band that continues to resonate and inspire. Don’t miss your chance to own this timeless compilation when it hits shelves on November 27, 2024. Your record player is calling, and that’s the soundtrack it’s been waiting for.

For anyone who has ever found themselves lost in the swirling soundscapes of the 90s alternative rock scene, “This Is Music: The Singles” is not just a record—it’s a sonic time capsule that documents the incredible journey of The Verve. This compilation album, originally released in November 2004 and now reissued for its 20th anniversary, is a treasure trove of hits that captures the essence of a band that dared to dream big and deliver even bigger.

If you’re a fan of haunting melodies, ethereal guitar riffs, and Richard Ashcroft’s soulful vocals, then this record speaks directly to your heart. Ashcroft possesses a rare ability to blend vulnerability with raw power, making his music resonate deeply with listeners. The Verve was at the forefront of an era characterized by experimentation and a longing for transcendence, and it’s hard to overstate just how influential they were during that time.

You don’t have to be a die-hard Verve enthusiast to appreciate the emotional weight of this collection. Perhaps you’re someone who has found solace in music that feels both celebratory and deeply introspective. The tracks on this album—ranging from the melancholic “Bitter Sweet Symphony” to the sprawling narratives of “Love Is Noise”—offer an immersive experience that speaks to the heart. That’s music that you can turn up when you’re feeling low, using the sound of Ashcroft’s voice as a balm for your soul.

What makes this reissue particularly exciting is the inclusion of bonus tracks that were previously left off the vinyl format. The rearrangement showcases tracks from their reunion album, “Forth,” which brought them back to the forefront of music discussions in the late 2000s. “She’s A Superstar,” now presented in its full, unedited glory, is a testament to the band’s knack for crafting mesmerizing soundscapes that echo the highs and lows of life.

There’s a beautiful story behind this reissue as well. After a turbulent decade filled with breakups and difficult transitions, The Verve’s reunion was a powerful moment for both the band and their fans. It’s as if they took a collective breath and exhaled all the magic that had been building up during their hiatus. The reimagining of their discography is not just about re-releasing music; it’s about reconnecting with the fans who have carried their legacy through the years.

So, who should buy this record? If you’re a music lover who enjoys the rich layers of alternative rock, this collection is essential. For those who lived through the 90s and want to relive that nostalgic moment in music history, it is a must-have. If you appreciate artists who push boundaries while remaining true to their roots, you’ll feel like you’ve struck gold with this album. And for the vinyl enthusiasts out there, this long-awaited press will resonate as a beautiful addition to your collection.

In the end, “This Is Music: The Singles” isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the enduring spirit of The Verve. Each track carries with it stories of love, loss, and longing—a reflection of life itself. So don’t hesitate, let the sounds wash over you and remind you of what it feels like to truly connect with music.