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Ahhhh. Three unheard tracks from 1988 by The Bodines get a release on Germany's Firestation Records nineteen years on. The Manchester based band who were originally signed to Creation in the early 1980's released a string of quality singles such as Therese and Heard It All. They then signed to Magnet Records releasing the indie-pop classic Played.

My guess, judging by the band line up, is that these tracks were recorded for a planned single before Magnet Records dumped the band. That makes sense as there is only a small progression here when compared to the tracks Played. That is in stark contrast with the tracks released on Playhard a year later although these were released with a different line-up.

That's the detective work over. Was it worth digging these tracks up and are they relevant today? It's a yes, yes and yes to each count. These tracks still sound remarkably fresh and alive with Shrinkwrap carrying the "Played" torch forward with Michael Ryan's voice shining over impressive jangling guitars. With You carries on in pretty much the same vein but Wake Me Up And Smell The Coffee is the star of the show, with an almost anthem like driving sound that soars to a great height. It is hard to believe how old these tracks are as it sounds like just yesterday to my ears.

You can hear the sounds in these tracks that have influenced a wide range of bands back then and even now. For example listen to tracks by Celestial and you will hear what I mean. Well recommended.

You can buy the single direct from Firestation Records. Those in the UK can get it from Rough Trade.