Los Planetas - Canciones para una Orquesta Química (1999)

This chronological two-CD collection of singles and EPs, B-sides, and alternate mixes from the Granada band's early 1993-1999 phase was probably intended for Spanish fans late in catching on to the band, but it's also a pretty good introduction and indicator of how Los Planetas' sound developed. The early material predictably is more direct -- "Mi Hermana Pequena" blisters, but the instruments haven't melded into the all-enveloping wall that develops later as a distinct lead-guitar melody (but not a solo) plays over rhythm guitar. "El Centro Del Cerebro" and "Cada Vez" sound a bit like the Velvet Underground's "Ocean," with guitar feedback adding melody noise -- "Brigitte" is somewhat in that vein with some U2 touches in the guitar lines of musical main man Florent. As usual with Los Planetas, those influences are dim echoes, like the hints of the Troggs' "A Girl Like You" in the rocking "Prueba Esto." "Que Puedo Hacer" shows a well-honed singles sensibility; "De Viaje" starts moving toward the wall of sound with incremental melodic and sonic detail; and "Nuevo Visita a la Casa" is the first taste of Los Planetas' dreamy side. Eric Jiménez's driving drum presence is really evident on the last four songs, from the Dios Existe! El Rollo Mesianico de los Planetas EP, especially the final power flurry that caps "La Guerra de las Galaxias." If a track named "Himno Generacional #83" doesn't tip you off, that EP title ("God Exists! The Messianic Affair of Los Planetas") shows that sharp, sly humor is part of the group equation, too. But that's just one reason why Canciones Para una Orquesta Química is far better than just a wrap-up collection of early career odds and ends.