Once dubbed ‘America’s best unsigned band’ by CMJ, New London, CT’s The Reducers spent much of their 34-year career skirting the edges of wider mainstream popularity. A brand-new international compilation, Rave On: A Tribute to the Reducers Vol. 1 (Good Sponge Records), coming Sept. 22, features 24 tracks that pay sound tribute to the band’s longstanding musical legacy.
Formed in 1978, The Reducers released three very well-received power pop "pub rock" records that propelled them to the national spotlight, where they found themselves touring the country opening for bands like The Ramones and The Replacements. Together for 34 years, the Reducers’ long run ended earlier this year with the death of bass player Steve Kaika, who died after a courageous battle with cancer. Rave On features tracks performed by bands and artists touched by the The Reducers’ music. Some tracks are reverent, almost note-for-note covers (particular care is paid to bassist Kaika’s renown "lead bass" lines), others are re-imagined in ways that showcase the timeless impact of the band’s songwriting.
There will be a CD release party for the album on Saturday, Sept. 22 at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center Rose Barn in Waterford, CT. The Oneill’s Rose Barn was the first venue the Reducers played together as a band in June of 1978. The CD release party will feature live performances. Doors open at 6:30pm. The show runs from 7:00-11:00pm. There is a suggested donation of $10, and CDs will be available for purchase. All profits from the event and CD sales will benefit the immediate family of Steve Kaika, who continue to work through medical bills and other challenges incurred during Kaika’s illness. Beer, wine and other refreshments will be available for purchase at the show.–The Deli Staff
Frigate — Boys Will Be Boys by chrisface
Track Listing:
1. Let’s Go – The Rattlers
2. Life In The Neighborhood – The Backstabbers
3. Better Homes And Gardens – Heap
4. Boys Will Be Boys – Frigate
5. San Antone – Rockbottom
6. Fashion Of The Times – The Manchurians
7. Nothing Cool – Paul Brockett Roadshow
8. No Ambition – The Gimmies
9. Company Man – Dave Rave & Lauren Agnelli
10. Out Of Step – Fran Fried w/The Backstabbers
11. Fistfight at the Beach – The Del Crandalls
12. Black Plastic Shoes – The Dogmatics
13. Rocks – P.C.2. (a.k.a. Paychannel)
14. Real Gone – Missy Roback
15. My Problem – The Rivergods
16. Sound Of Breaking Down – Birdfeeder
17. Don’t You Wanna – Tim Lee 3
18. Yeah Yeah – Big Fat Combo
19. Meltdown – Firestarter
20. All About You – Matt Gouette
21. Avoidance Factor – The Clothespins
22. Scared of Cops – Frantic Stuffs
23. Closing Time – Blonde Furniture
24. Endless Bummer – Male Curriers