The Blasters – Non Fiction

The legendary Americana band's 1983 album re-released with brand new liner notes and band interviews written by Chris Morris with rare photos and memorabilia images. The release recreates the band's third studio album complete with a replica of the inner sleeve with songwriter Dave Alvin's lyrics. The 11-track set features the four core band members-Phil Alvin, Dave Alvin, John Bazz and Bill Bateman accompanied by Gene Taylor, Lee Allen and Steve Berlin. Includes band classic cuts- "Long White Cadillac" (a hit for Dwight Yoakum in 1989), "Jubilee Train", "Red Rose" along with deep track covers of "Barefoot Rock" and "Tag Along", sung by piano player Gene Taylor. The album was critically acclaimed with positive reviews from The New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Boston Globe, Philadelphia Inquirer, Trouser Press, The Village Voice, Goldmine, and many others. The San Diego Union named it the eighth best album of the 1980s. The album marked a shift in their sound as the band incorporated more diverse influences, blending rock, rockabilly, blues, and country elements. While still maintaining the energetic roots rock style they were known for, "Non-Fiction" also explored a more polished and mature production compared to their earlier albums. The album stands out for its mix of upbeat tracks with thoughtful lyrics and a more reflective tone than their earlier, more raw recordings. The album is praised for its strong songwriting, and although it didn't achieve major commercial success, it remains a beloved album among fans.

Track Listing:
1. Red Rose - 2:31   2. Barefoot Rock - 2:29   3. Bus Station - 2:31   4. One More Dance - 2:26   5. It Must Be Love - 2:54   6. Jubilee Train – 3:00   7. Long White Cadillac - 2:54   8. Fool’s Paradise - 2:44   9. Boomtown - 3:34   10. Leaving - 3:26   11. Tag Along – 2:53

Personnel:
Phil Alvin (vocals, guitar, harmonica) , Dave Alvin (lead guitar) , John Bazz (bass) , Lee Allen (tenor sax) , Steve Berlin (baritone sax) , Gene Taylor (piano, vocals on 11) , Bill Bateman (drums)