The Better Beatles - Mercy Beat (Hook or Crook) The altogether singular concept of this recording, and this band, is to reinterpret Beatles songs. Almost monotone deadpan lyrics are laid over unrefined, minimalist drum, bass and synth. A listener’s easily mistaken response towards it could be that an amateur band jams whilst a non-singer / songwriter merely reads Beatles vocals yet, because this release has resurfaced nearly 30 years after it’s recording, it lends itself to the belief that there is some cultural significance behind it. It should certainly be hailed for making the covers uniquely their own and, with the rare exception of a couple of numbers, are as far removed as could be, and bear no resemblance to the originals (“With A Little Help From My Friends” does embrace a crude approximation of the original’s melody, albeit played awkwardly slow, and almost randomly placed in the structure!!). Originally only surmounting to a lone 7” single, here is a complete collection of their recordings from their apparent 3 month existence. A true crusade against all punk despised about the popular music industry, this 1981 DIY relic attacks the music sensibilities of the crowned kings of pop and disposes of their lyrics with a blatant disinterest. Really worth listening to but unsure as to how many repeat listenings (especially in it’s entirety) will be needed. www.hookorcrook.com Will F. Next Past Reviews: March 07, April 07, May 07, June/July 07, Sept/Oct 07, Dec07, Jan08, Feb 08, Mar 08