International Pop Overthrow

Chicago’s Material Issue, led by singer-guitarist Jim Ellison, performed joyful ‘60s-inspired pop music that was never about an “Overthrow” but a continuation of a fine pop music tradition. Ellison, sadly, committed suicide before the ‘90s were out. But his classic debut album, with bassist Ted Ansani and drummer Mike Zelenko, is a classic that is finally back in print. The sheer simplicity of the joy behind the sound of “Diane,” the simple rock ‘n’ roll lesson of “Renee Remains The Same” and the forward motion of “Li’l Christine,” where the group sounds like an urgent Marshall Crenshaw,  are the pillars of this sublime album. There are plenty of pop confections worth hearing. “This Far Before,” “Very First Lie,” “Out Right Now” and “Valerie Loves Me” are hit singles that never were. Likely had they been originally released in 1966 and not 1991 they would’ve found a home on AM radio. The band may have been, arguably, out of time, but the songs were really timeless. The 20th Anniversary Edition includes eight bonus cuts. Covers of Thin Lizzy’s “Cowboy,” Sweet’s “Blockbuster” and Paul Simon’s “The Boxer” are great fun.