Filter, known for their gritty and industrial sound, made significant waves in the ’90s alternative rock scene. Their ability to blend aggressive industrial elements with more melodic and accessible rock components allowed them to stand out. The Very Best Things: 1995-2008 compilation captures the essence of the band’s journey through the alternative rock and industrial metal scenes during that period. It is a compelling collection that encapsulates the most influential years of Filter, combining their biggest hits with some rare gems that fans might not have previously encountered in a standard studio album. It is not just a walk through the band’s hit singles but also a deep dive into their contributions to various popular soundtracks, showcasing their versatility and broad appeal. As part of Craft Recordings RSD selections, The Very Best Things: 1995-2008 will receive a limited-edition Mercury Swirl (silver & blue) vinyl pressing.
Kicking off with the raw energy of “Hey Man Nice Shot,” a track that became synonymous with Filter’s gritty, industrial sound, the album sets a high bar. The song’s intense delivery and memorable hook perfectly encapsulate the mid-’90s alternative rock ethos. In contrast, the album also includes softer, more introspective hits like “Take a Picture” from Title of Record, which contrasts sharply with the band’s usual intensity, highlighting their musical range.
The collection also revisits “Welcome to the Fold” from Title of Record and “Where Do We Go From Here” from The Amalgamut, tracks that further cement Filter’s reputation for crafting songs that are both anthemic and deeply personal. These songs are symbolic of the band’s evolution from their initial, more abrasive industrial sound to a more polished rock aesthetic. Significantly, the album underscores Filter’s contributions to major film soundtracks, featuring “(Can’t You) Trip Like I Do,” a collaboration with The Crystal Method from the Spawn soundtrack, “Jurassitol” from The Crow: City of Angels, and a unique cover of Harry Nilsson’s “One” from The X-Files film. These tracks highlight the band’s ability to adapt their sound to different contexts and their impact on the broader cultural landscape of the ’90s and early ‘00s.
The Very Best Things: 1995-2008 serves as both an introduction for new listeners and a nostalgic collection for long-time fans, offering a well-rounded view of a band that mastered both the charts and the art of impactful, evocative music that transcends the conventional boundaries of rock and industrial genres. This compilation reaffirms why Filter was a defining force in their heyday and continues to resonate with fans across generations. With every song on the album remastered, this RSD edition looks cool and sounds amazing.
