Sorry Ma, I Forgot to Take Out the Trash (Expanded Edition)

Originally issued in 1981, The Replacements’ debut album came at a time when punk rock was slowly morphing into ‘80s indie rock. Singer-songwriter Paul Westerberg shows hints of his poignant rock ‘n’ roll heart with “Johnny’s Gonna Die,” but mostly settles for the fearless and free speed and aggression of “Takin’ A Ride,” “I Hate Music,” and “Shutup.” The band’s genuine irreverence would turn them into one of the decade’s most unpredictable and, therefore, exciting live bands. However, at this early stage, no one could’ve predicted that they’d even be together long enough to make a second album. Their bassist Tommy Stinson was all of 12 years old when he joined the band with his older brother Bob and wasn’t yet 16 upon the album’s release. This expanded edition includes 13 extras: the demos Westerberg handed to their eventual manager / label head Peter Jesperson in 1980 in hopes of landing a recording contract, along with outtakes, studio demos, a powerful alternate take on “Customer,” a ridiculous “Basement Jam,” and the excellent acoustic b-side “If Only You Were Lonely.”