The Jam Album: “Snap! [3-CD Limited Box]”

It's always been hard to understand why the Jam have not made a bigger impression in the US - I suppose they were just a tad more British than some of the contemporaries - it certain isn't for the quality, variety and depth of their songs. This collection is certianly re-mastered - it sounds great, amazing and clean without losing the raw edges. For true completists, there are also two UK collections of UK singles which contains a few tracks not collected here - though you'll notice where the tarcks repeat, the sound quality here is so much better ... of course, you'll just have to get both ...

Paul Weller is often seen as Daddy Britpop. Maybe even more than the Beatles, he was the main influence behind the Britpop revival in the nineties. Bands as Oasis, Supergrass and the Verve all got to pay their dues to Mister Weller and it all started with the Jam.

The Jam rose to legendary status during the dawn of Punk rock. Although they never sounded as raw as the Sex Pistols or the Clash they are considered to be one of the greatest bands of that generation. Their sound is deeply indebted to Northern Soul, Funky and thrilling. Their songs were Snappy pop gems, pure working-class poetry. Unlike other Punk Rockers, their image was pristine, with cool sharp cut suits or expensive leisure wear. They were almost a movement on their own within the Punk scene.

Snap was originally released as a double vinyl (remember those) and then comprised to a single disc. Because not everything of the original vinyl release fitted on a single disc eight tunes were cut form the release. The bonus EP that came with the original release disappeared all together. For decades fans had to make do with either the complete discography on disc or lacking compilations. This atrocity is finally set right with the re-release on disc of Snap in it original form, including the EP and a beautiful booklet. This truly is a must have for anyone interested in British music and an essential for any Punk Rock fan.