Game Theory - The Big Shot Chronicles (2016)

30th Anniversary Expanded Reissue of Their Revered 3rd Full-Length Album! Omnivore Recordings continues the re-examination and re-appreciation of Game Theory’s stellar 1980s catalog with The Big Shot Chronicles. Passionate fans of the group all have a favorite GT album, and the band’s drummer, Gil Ray, refers to The Big Shot Chronicles as his favorite in a revealing interview with set co-producer and Game Theory constant/confidant Dan Vallor in the new reissue’s liner notes. Once again helmed by Mitch Easter (R.E.M., Let’s Active), the 12-track album features an expansion of the band’s sound, and contains the MTV 120 Minutes staple, “Erica’s Word.” For its 30th anniversary, 13 tracks have been added—9 of which are previously unissued. From demos, outtakes, rough mixes, and live tracks, one can see the sonic trajectory the band was on—leading up to their arguable magnum opus, Lolita Nation. In addition to alternate versions of originals, this set includes a wealth of covers of songs by Todd Rundgren, Roxy Music, Big Star, The Velvet Underground, and more. Including some surprises. The CD and Digital versions contain 25 tracks, while the LP component (first pressing on lime-green vinyl) has the original 12-track LP, with a download for the entire CD program. Packaging again contains a plethora of unseen images from long-time group photographer “Photo Robert” Toren. Add in liner notes including the aforementioned Ray/Vallor interview, an essay from Jason Cohen, and a remembrance from The Magnetic Field’s Stephin Merritt, The Big Shot Chronicles’ 30th anniversary is everything it should be, and much more. The Chicago Reader said the album was “ambitious and elaborate . . . packed with sunny, ultracatchy melodies, sweet vocal harmonies, and soft-focus psychedelia.” So, take your first shot, or prepare for a bigger shot of The Big Shot Chronicles.