Rational Youth - Cold War Night Life (Expanded) (1982/2019)

The long-overdue reissue of a classic album. Initially released on an independent Montreal-based label, this album has been out of print for years, although it was one of the largest-selling independent releases in Canada. From beginning to end, this album is brilliant, with wonderful songs played with emotion on synthesizers. Danceable, melodic, futuristic (for its time), and overall, a treat.

"Close to Nature," "Saturdays in Silesia," and "Just a Sound In the Night," among others, are amazing songs, played expertly, and now on CD sounding as they were meant to be heard. Actually, there are no weak songs on the CD, and the whole package comes highly recommended. Added to the CD reissue is the inspirational "I Want To See the Light" and the dance floor classic "Coboloid Race." This album was alternative in its day and topped campus charts throughout North America, and listening to it in 1997, one can firmly understand the fascination. Tracey Howe, Bill Vorn and Kevin Komoda breathed life into what could otherwise be a very cold sound, and they did it well. It is good to have this album back.