Shiner, a key band in the Midwest indie rock scene, has released a newly remixed and remastered version of their track "Brooks" from their 1996 debut album, Splay. This track is part of a vinyl reissue project by Spartan Records, who will also release Splay on digital platforms on July 26. You can stream "Brooks" on YouTube or via this link.
Spartan Records plans to reissue Shiner's first four albums (Splay, Lula Divinia, Starless, and The Egg) on vinyl. These albums, which have been out of print for years, are available for pre-order now, with shipping set for mid-August. Fans can also buy these albums as part of a bundle that includes a new Shiner t-shirt.
In a statement to BrooklynVegan, Shiner frontman Allen Epley reflected on Splay's original recording: "We recorded with Bob Weston of Shellac at Steve Albini’s old studio in the first five days of '95. We always cherished this document but felt like it needed an update sonically." The band's bassist, Paul Malinowski, remixed the original tapes at his studio, Massive Sound in Kansas City. Epley noted that the remix brought a new presence to the bass guitar, enhancing the overall sound.
Malinowski, who joined Shiner after Splay was recorded, added, "The whole thing was recorded and mixed very quickly by Bob Weston at Steve Albini's home studio. It was great to transfer the tapes and remix the tracks with more time to get the mix together. The sounds were all great! Especially the drums. It sounds much more like the live band that I loved."
Spartan Records owner John T. Frazier shared his excitement about working with Shiner: "The 'full circle' moments I've experienced running this label make it all worthwhile. Working with Shiner, a band that has been transformative in my life, is just a dream come true."
Listening to Shiner is like stepping into a time capsule of the '90s indie rock scene, yet their sound feels timeless. The blend of heavy guitar riffs and melodic vocals creates a dynamic atmosphere that pulls you in. The raw energy in their music can make you feel nostalgic but also invigorated. Their ability to mix introspective lyrics with powerful instrumentation evokes a range of emotions, from reflective to exhilarated. Shiner’s music captures the essence of the era while still sounding fresh and relevant today, offering a unique and immersive listening experience.
Formed in 1992, Shiner quickly gained a loyal following. They toured with bands like Sunny Day Real Estate and Jawbox and released several influential albums. After a break, the band reformed in 2012 and released Schadenfreude in 2020. With Spartan Records, Shiner is excited to continue making new music and sharing their classic albums with fans old and new.
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