Poison Idea — The Fatal Erection Years 1983-1986

Adding to their already stellar catalog, Southern Lord Records has re-released some classic Poison Idea records. This cd consists of the legendary Portland hardcore band's first 7" (Pick Your King), the following 12" (Record Collectors Are Pretentious Assholes), four compilation tracks, and a previously unreleased live set from 1983. The 7", 12", and one compilation track (Laughing Boy) were originally released by Fatal Erection (hence the album title), and the remaining compilation tracks were recorded during the Record Collectors sessions. Ok, the title checks out, what about the music?

The first 13 tracks of the cd are from the Pick Your King 7". This was Poison Idea's first release and you can feel their energy. We're treated to thirteen tracks of rad, blistering, tight hardcore in a tad over twelve minutes. While the tracks are generally standard hardcore (though, very well done), Poison Idea keeps it fresh by adding in creative basslines, catchy grooves, interesting breakdowns, and lightning fast fills (This Thing Called Progress is a great example of their creativity). The tracks have been restored and remastered, and they sound great. All instruments are clear and audible, while the recording still maintains its crunchy nuts. I'll drink to that!

The following 8 tracks are from the Record Collectors Are Pretentious Assholes 12". Though recorded only a year and a half after Pick Your King, these tracks show a great level of musical development. What was once straight forward hardcore is now hardcore laced with interesting rock riffing and hints at what was to become crossover. Record Collectors is less intense than Pick Your King (8 tracks in 12+ minutes vs 13 tracks in 12+ minutes), but every bit as entertaining. The four compilation tracks that follow were recorded at the same time, for the most part, and play just like the preceding eight. Playing the first 25 tracks will make Poison Idea's musical progression very clear to the listener.

Finishing off the cd is a previously unreleased live set from The Met, Portland, 1983. This almost 30 year old soundboard recording sounds excellent, just like the rest of the cd. Figuring that live Poison Idea from 83 would most likely be a fan recorded bootleg, I was pleasantly surprised. I should say, too, that I am not a fan of live recordings, but this live jam is the highlight of the cd for me. The boys bring their intensity to the stage. Not only that, they have some fairly amusing comments between songs, but not too many to distract the listener. This recording is a nice surprise, and a must have for any Poison Idea fan.

Southern Lord did a great job with this release. Though, credit should be given to whomever restored and remastered it, too. This album sounds great and is an excellent document of early Portland hardcore. Poison Idea fans should seek this out for the great sound and added live set. Fans of hardcore surely wouldn't be disappointed if they did the same.