Last fall rock lost one of its true visionaries. John Peel was responsible for introducing the UK to acts like Pink Floyd, The Velvet Underground, The Smiths, The Undertones, Nirvana, The White Stripes, Napalm Death, Carcass, Extreme Noise Terror & Joy Division. How's that for diversity? It was an honor for any band to get to play Peel's BBC radio show. John Peel was a champion of the unknown and a true fan of music. American Radio DJs could certainly take a cue from him. Peel asked Hot Snakes to record with him on their first trip to the UK. On October 11th, 2004 they recorded 4 tracks for the legendary DJ. Hot Snakes were Peel's final guests. Two weeks later he died in Peru.
Swami Records has now released these four songs on an EP. Two songs were from Automatic Midnight, while the other two are on Audit in Process. These versions of the songs are a bit more raw that the versions that are on their albums. It really captures their snotty punk vibe.
If you're unfamiliar with Hot Snakes, they are members of bands like Rocket from the Crypt and Drive Like Jehu (amongst tons of others). In spite of their punk rock pedigree, Hot Snakes have formed their own identity. Taking cues from bands like The Wipers, The Screamers and early Black Flag; they play melodic punk with unforgettable hooks and throat-torn vocals. In some ways this is my favorite record the band has put out. It's four of their best songs recorded in the most appropriate manner I can imagine for a band full of record nerds. If you're a fan of Hot Snakes you're going to love it. If you haven't ever heard them and are looking for somewhere to start, this is a good place.
