Nick Lowe: Jesus of Cool

Label: Yep Roc

In 1978, the U.S. release of Nick Lowe’s first solo album was marred with controversy when CBS Records changed the title of Jesus of Cool to Pure Pop for Now People to avoid offending some people. Thirty years later, Yep Roc Records are releasing a wonderfully exhaustive anniversary edition of the album with its original tile and packaging. Jesus of Cool explores many musical genres, from the reggae of “No Reason,” The crude rockabilly-punk of “Shake that Rat,” the power pop of “Born a Woman,” the rousing pub-rock of “Shake and Pop,” to the iconic new wave sounds of “I Love the Sound of Breaking Glass.” This edition features seven bonus tracks, including a live version of “Heart of the City,” so what more could you ask for? The must buy rerelease of the year! (Morgane)