The Replacements – Tim

Sorry Ed, after comparing, original mix still rules for me!

I own the “Let it bleed” boxset. I got this because I wanted the original mix on vinyl and not on CD. Vinyl is lighter than on the “Let it bleed” edition. I A-B’d them both and they sound really close. However, the Ed Stasium vinyl on the “Let it bleed” boxset is a bit better quality and I feel has a tad more definition. Perhaps because the record is heavier (maybe it’s just fairy dust haha).

Honestly, when I listened to “Tim” on Apple Music, I much preferred the Ed Stasium mix. In part because I find the 2023 remaster sounds outdated and muddy in comparison.

But on this RSD release however, the 2023 remaster has much more definition and clarity which makes both mixes a complete tie for me. The Ed Stasium wins for its in your face punk rock approach. The guitar work is much more enjoyable and the solos shine. The vocals are also much more personal since they have less reverb. But on the 2023 remaster, it wins for its nostalgia and moodiness. Especially on songs like “Swinging Party” and “Here Comes A Regular”. The reverb does add to these songs IMO. They feel like 2 completely different records to me. And I listen to them both equally depending on the mood I’m in.

Not much to complain about on this release except for the rough edges on the wax and the lacklustre packaging. Poly lined sleeves are nice. But they should have included a booklet with some information on the new mix. Perhaps not as extensive as the really nice booklet that’s in the “Let it bleed” edition but at least something. Even a poster would have elevated this release. At a bare minimum they should have done a gatefold with some info in the middle and some artwork.

All said though, the vinyl colour is really nice. Kind of a plum translucent. But it really is all about the music, and the music is top tier on this release.

TT: Fisher MT-6225
Amp: Harman/Kardan hk495i
Cart: AT-VM95ml
Speakers: Tannoy C-8

Great pressing, new mix is great, a different listen, I enjoy it but I still prefer the original mix. The remaster is pretty well done, although I have to say, as others have mentioned it feels like there’s a blanket in front of the speakers… my ‘85 US copy is cut louder, definitely harsh at times, IGD, but I still prefer it to the remaster, which I repeat is really good, I’d say it’s a tamed version of the OG, but clearer, less distorted, you can crank it up and get a great sound. It goes down to preference I think, but if you can find a cheap ‘85 copy I’d get it.

Annoying, oversized sleeve. Discs can fall too far inside and get stuck, or they can fall out too easily. Morrissey's You Are the Quarry CD/DVD from 2004 had oversized outer sleeve similar to this, but it had a plastic inner sleeve for each disc, and the whole thing worked perfectly.

Not impressed by Ed Stasium Mix. But then again, the Original Mix doesn't sound as great as I either. Maybe this is more of a late summer, early autumn kind of album than an April 11 kind of album?

Great release of one of my favorite albums. I was a sophomore in college when this album was originally released. A kid across the hall had it and it blew my mind. Our band soon covered Left of the Dial. So I have a history with this music and love it. The raw energy of the original mix is awesome, but the sound is harsh, and detail can be lacking. The original is great, don't get me wrong, but the Stasium mix is the revelation I always wanted to hear. You lose a little of the punk edge, but you gain wonderful separation and clarity, revealing more detail and nuance. You can hear Paul and Bob's guitars more distinctly, the vocals are more forward and clear, and Tommy's bass is more present to ire (like his great plaing on Swinging Party). Pressing quality seems very good to me.

If you like this album, this is a must buy. That said, the packaging is minimal at best. A little information on the recording and remix would've been nice for a 40th anniversary edition.

I can't argue with the merits of the Stasium version but I think it loses some of the power of the original, which sounds almost mono by comparison. Which is why I'm really glad the 2023 remastered original mix is included here, it's way better sounding than the 1985 pressing. Thanks Chris B!

Absolutely killer! Pretty sure kids in ‘85 or 2025 and everywhere in between struggle the same and I hope everyone who needs this album finds it.

I stalking this page for a decent price to pop up but it never did. Until the RSD version came out haha

Don’t know if I have a strong preference for the new mix, but new mix aside I honestly don’t think this is a very dynamic pressing. A bit meh. Also, super basic packaging, cheap sleeve. Subpar overall compared to, say, Rhino HiFi realeses at the same price point.

Honestly believe this is the single greatest album by an American rock band. The hype matches the reality on this new mix. It’s astonishing and the remaster of the OG mix is pretty solid as well. Can’t listen to this album enough in a lifetime.