The Fall’s sound is a mix of repetitive rhythms, discordant guitars and keyboards, frontman Mark E. Smith’s idiosyncratic talk-singing, comedic narratives and paranoid rants. It takes a while to connect, but once it does, it’s hugely addictive. Though largely unheard in the States, The Fall has had Top 40 hits in the U.K.—largely due to radio DJ John Peel, who passed away last year. Peel had been a champion for new and unusual music since the 1960s. He introduced English audiences to glam, grunge, reggae, punk and hip-hop. The Fall was his favorite band, and this six-CD set serves as a fitting memorial. Neophytes are directed toward last year’s collection, 50,000 Fall Fans Can’t Be Wrong, but for those already hooked, this set is essential listening.
The Complete Peel Sessions 1978 – 2004
