SQUiRE Tribute

Gathering artists from around the world, The Young Idea: A Tribute to Anthony Meynell & Squire is fairly evenly split between peers and new comers. Amongst those who need no introduction is British tunesmith and graphic artist extraordinaire Paul Bevoir (ex-Jetset, Small Town Parade) who performed in the U.S. alongside Meynell and also saw The Jetsets April May June & The Jetset released by Hi Lo Records. The Shambles of course have worked with Meynell throughout the years. Back when Kevin Donaker-Ring and I fronted Manual Scan, Meynell released our first album on his label. Later as The Shambles, weve covered three of his songs.Trash is another old friend under a new name, in this case Bob Andrews formerly of Canadas Beat Direction, and another former Hi Lo signee. Also back after a lengthy hiatus, the newly revitalized Mod Fun- who clearly have lost none of thier manic edge - were included on Hi Los American Heart & Soul compilation. Another old favorite returning with a vengeance after a bit of time off are Yeh Yeh. For my money the group was one of the best of the old guard and on the evidence of their most recent recordings, are even better today. The compilation also reaches back to include a mid-nineties track released as a single circa 1994 by Scotlands Deceivers as well as a cut of similar vintage by Australias Little Murders. But Meynells knack for writing pop hooks is also taken on by a new generation of artists. Certainly The Eddies Debbie Jones, adds an LA edge not far removed from the likes of 20/20 (no surprise considering Earle Mankey performs production chores here!) while Jeremys Youre The One manages to squeeze every last bit of jangle out of the tune. Just the tip of the iceberg here, as all 17 tracks bear repeated listens, and hold up well to the originals. No easy feat. Ive been honored to call Anthony a good friend for over two decades now, and I look forward to many more. Listening to this compilation Im reminded what a consummate song craftsman he is, and how criminally under rated his catalog of tunes has been. May this fitting tribute be the first step in spreading the word about the magic of Squire and opening up the music worlds eyes to the equally worthy projects he has worked on in the years since that band roamed the earth. Whether you dig the originals or groove to the remakes, you must agree these songs are meant to play loud, perfect for dancing or just jumping about, that rare artifact, the three minute pop gem.-Bart Mendoza / San Diego 2006ToolsForMySpace.com