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Left Of The Dial: Dispatches From The '80s Underground
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Left Of The Dial: Dispatches From The '80s Underground Image
Metascore
85

Universal acclaim - based on 8 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 5 Ratings

  • Summary: This 82-song, 4-disc box set compiles various indie and alternative tracks from the 1980s across multiple genres, and includes music from both the decade's "biggest" names (The Smiths, R.E.M., Depeche Mode, Violent Femmes, etc.) as well as lesser-known artists such as The Raincoats, Green OnThis 82-song, 4-disc box set compiles various indie and alternative tracks from the 1980s across multiple genres, and includes music from both the decade's "biggest" names (The Smiths, R.E.M., Depeche Mode, Violent Femmes, etc.) as well as lesser-known artists such as The Raincoats, Green On Red, and The Lyres.… Expand

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    91
    Like the great college radio station that never was. [29 Oct 2004, p.69]
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  2. Stylus Magazine
    90
    Listening to these four discs, you can really picture an entire nation of college students and twenty-somethings promoting their own gigs, designing their radio station playlists and folding their own record sleeves while staying up late to watch 120 Minutes.
  3. AllMusic
    90
    The astute and eclectic programming makes for a better listen than other attempts that have been made to compile '80s alternative rock.
  4. E! Online
    83
    Provides a mind-blowing nostalgic trip for those who grew up with these songs.
  5. Billboard
    80
    A must-have for any fans of true alternative music and a primer for younger generations to see where their favorite bands got their inspiration.
  6. Rolling Stone
    80
    Virtually all of these songs and recordings have held up beautifully. [28 Oct 2004, p.104]
    All this publication's reviews
  7. Uncut
    60
    In short, it needs a rigorous editor. [Feb 2005, p.94]
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See all 8 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

Write a Review
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 3
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 3
  3. Negative: 0 out of 3
  1. BernardH
    Nov 18, 2004
    10
    Informative and representative of the time. Interesting style shifts. A lot of fun to listen to. Booklet is a great resource.
  2. KyleB
    Nov 15, 2004
    10
    GREAT!
  4. MarcD.
    Jan 11, 2005
    9
    Excellent mix of songs. Makes me miss the days of Richard Blade and Poorman in the mornings on KROQ.

Awards & Rankings

29
#29 Best Album of 2004