USELESS TRINKETS: B-SIDES, SOUNDTRACKS, RARITIES AND UNRELEASED 1996-2006 - EELS
Few acts have morphed more often than Mark Oliver Everett’s Eels. From the group’s earliest work with the Dust Brothers more than a decade ago through to recent acoustic singer/ songwriter forays, the Eels are ever changing. All of which makes “Useless Trinkets: B-Side, Soundtracks, Rarities and Unreleased 1996-2006″ an eclectic and difficult, but ultimately rewarding experience. Among the album’s 50 (!) tracks are examples of the Eels’ best work, including “Altar Boy” and “Jennifer Eccles,” which provide moments of splendid, sparse beauty. And while others, like the Moog Cookbook remix of “Novocaine,” would be better off unheard, a vast majority of the album demonstrates incredible range and E’s often solemn, but singular songwriting. It’s not the best introduction for those unfamiliar with the band’s expansive catalog, but “Useless Trinkets” is proof that most acts would kill for the songs the Eels deposit as B-sides. Useless Trinkets: B Sides, Soundtracks, Rarities and Unreleased 1996-2007 (2CD+DVD)
