Along with Between the Buried and Me‘s Alaska, Misery Signals‘s second full-length, Mirrors, has long been criticized by fans for its poor production. Ironically, the album it is packaged with in this deluxe, double LP set, is the “overproduced” (well-produced in my opinion – you just can’t please everyone all the time, can you?) Controller. The fact that both are available in one set for a modest price – if you get it at a Misery Signals show, like I did – is a bonus.
The LP’s main selling point is that both albums were remastered for vinyl, meaning that Mirrors finally gets somewhat of a new mix. It is a fairly standard change to a more balanced, clear record sound. Nothing major, but it is good enough to warrant a recommendation for those who are annoyed at the farty bass on the CD. Controller‘s remaster is the same – nothing major, but since it is on vinyl, it does sound better.
In terms of packaging, the gatefold is a plus. Controller is on a nice, semi-clear blue vinyl, while Mirrors resides on a more opaque grey vinyl. The artwork is largely based on Controller, but has a unique feel to it.
If you are a fan of Misery Signals, this is a must have, but anyone who is looking for a drastic change in sound might be a bit disappointed. Check out the images for a look at the packaging.
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