The four albums Minneapolis’ The Replacements released for Seymour Stein’s Sire Records. Paul Westerberg, Chris Mars, Bob Stinson and Tommy Stinson made their Sire debut with 1985’s Tim. The had gotten about as far as they could on Minneapolis indie Twin/Tone Records and were in need of the help of a major. Impressed by Stein’s experience managing the Ramones, the band signed up with Sire. Stein enlisted Tommy Ramone to produce their first release for the label. Their sound moved away from their punk roots during their time at Sire, with Stinson leaving the band by their second album for the label. By the time of their last album, All Shook Down, Westerberg primarily recorded by himself with the help of session musicians. Regardless of the circumstances, the band’s output for Sire is well worth exploring. Includes the albums Tim, Pleased To Meet Me, Don’t Tell A Soul, and All Shook Down. Released by Sireon four LPs with the original cover art housed in a slipcase.

• limited to 8700 copies
• slipcase cover
• music label: Sire 2016

reviewed by First Avenue Fan Boy 05/2016