For some, the winter holidays are a time of warmth and togetherness, shared with friends and loved ones. For others, it is a time of acute anxiety, insecurity and, sometimes, even ostracism. If you (or perhaps someone on your gift-giving list) fall into the latter category, then the season might just be the perfect time for the release of Please, Please, Please, a new compilation of tributes to the masters of angst-ridden romanticism, the Smiths. Washington outfits Solvents and Telekinesis have lent their talents to the 20-track ode to Morrissey et al, performing “Is It Really So Strange?” and “Sheila Take a Bow”, respectively. The album is due for release on Dec. 13 from American Laundromat Records.
-Kate Shepherd