“Let It Be” delivers teen angst through punk influence
The Replacements formed in 1979 as part of an early thriving punk and alt-rock scene in Minneapolis, MN. Their third studio album, “Let It Be,” marked the shift to a new, post-punk sound for the band.
“Let It Be” has been critically praised since its initial release in 1984. The songs feature coming-of-age themes often influenced by bassist Tommy Stinson, who at 18 was the youngest member of the band.
The opening track, “I Will Dare,” captures a similar feel as an early Smiths song, with jangling guitars and the same youthful offer of sneaking out of the house late at night.
At the closing, “Answering Machine” delivers lo-fi heartbreak with barely more than vocals and a guitar before introducing broken clips of the very same answering machine Paul Westerberg is lamenting.
In between these are gems such as “Favorite Thing,” “We’re Coming Out” and “Black Diamond.” On the 2008 reissue of the album, there are also strikingly well-formed home demos and a cover of “20th Century Boy” by T. Rex.
In my opinion, this is a defining album of the roots of alternative rock. I would recommend this album to anyone who enjoys some solid music delivered with real and honest teenage energy. I give it a rating of 4.9/5.
17hnorris@usd489.com
Hannah Norris is a senior starting her second year on the newspaper staff. She is a photographer. She is also involved in debate, DECA, scholar’s bowl,...
