Wicked Witch - Chaos 1978-86 (2008)

This little dandy is a re-ish compilation from a bass player and all around musician Wicked Witch whose real name is Richard Simms. The music can range from being incredibly brutal ("Fancy Dancer") to super tight, example ("Vera's Back"). I find it interesting that "Vera's Back," was recorded in 1978, which shows the earlier material had a different focus. Its that not that I find the focus any more musical than the 80's material, just stretched to a thinner tighter production style, with Dukish arranging, full band and the lack of a drum machine. The 80's material is about dense layered grooves.

There is no escaping "Under Your Spell," a bedroom tape that might actually make Prince smile. Mr. Simms writes grooves that run and run while holding onto a keen sense of psychedelia to roll it and make it edible.

Sexuality is strong with this one as well, which is illustrated on "X Rated." With orgasmic Oberheim swells, a perverse vocal track, and an ending fade that makes you wish you had the whole reel in your hands.

This is truly a record you're gonna want to check out.