Pavement still sounds fresh a decade later

I approached “Quarantine the Past,” the new collection from Pavement, with some reservations. Could possibly the greatest (alternative) band of the ‘90s translate what made their albums so fantastic into a “best of” collection? That answer is yes, yes they can.

“Quarantine” gets things right from the start by not sequencing the songs chronologically. The band’s five albums are consistent in quality, but the style changed a bit with each release; by mixing the songs together, there isn’t an awkward division between each stage of their career. If anything, the sequencing shows how great the material is – there is not a dull moment on this compilation.

None of the songs on “Quarantine the Past” are brand new, with most originating on the full-length albums. However, this disc might still be of interest to Pavement fans who don’t own the EPs or the band’s contribution to the “No Alternative” compilation.

The band is expert at mixing the crunchy, squealing guitar with Stephen Malkmus’ thoughtful and often funny lyrics. Each track holds a joy and exuberance that is infectious.

Hopefully, this album will introduce people to Pavement (as gently as possible), but for existing fans, it might just make them want to listen to all the old albums again. Either way, everybody wins.