Search - Snakefinger :: Collection

Compilation that is worth getting for fans

David Fields | Lincoln, Nebraska United States | 07/10/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is not Snakefingers best work, but it does contain a few gems. Luckily, it starts out with two of Snakefingers best works, The Spot and Smelly Tongues. The version of Smelly Tongues in this album is a song I can listen to over and over again. Unfortunatly, it ends with some cuts from the Snake's worst album: Greener Postures. Highlights, outside of that mentioned before, are "Kill the Great Raven", "Here Comes the Bums", "Picnic in the Jungle". If you really want some good stuff by the Snake, look for the CD "Manual of Errors", and scrape around, and see if you can find "History of the Blues" on LP. Unfortunately, both are out of print, and both are sorely missed by us fans.If you're a Snakefinger or a Residents fan, get this album. If I could have, I would have rated this 3 and 1/2 stars. But, 4 will do in a pinch."

Tremendous inntroduction to an overlooked genius.

murph@interaccess.com | Chicago | 08/29/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Oh Snakefinger, why did you have to go? Snakefinger, was one of the most interesting and talented guitarists/songwriters ever to pick up an axe. This collection is a good place to start and, unfortunatly probably the end of the search. Most of this brainac's work is out of print. Given his virtual total obscurity in life, his death has done little to illuminate his talents. I will not bother reviewing specific cuts. They are all so diverse and marvelous, mere words fail. Make no mistake, this stuff is callenging and witty so only go here if you like to challenged and played with. He was the guitarist of choice for San Francisco greats The Residents and had a Crackerjack band anchored by keyboardist Eric Drew Feldman. (Where are his albums on this infernal web site?) Sankefinger is sort of a mix of Zappa eclecticism, the demented pop sensibilities of Syd Barret and mid-sixties Brian Wilson. Just get this record, if you dont groove on it, you are a mope. I welcome your comments. Wave your freak flag."

A vision that is at once frightening and funny

murph@interaccess.com | 09/25/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I can't say this collection ranks with Snakefinger's greatest work (I only wish Manual of Errors was here) but a great intro. I wish the production on these early tracks were better. If you can somehow find "Live in Chicago" on tape, these songs played with a traditional band are how should I say it... unbelievable!"