Swing Out Sister first burst onto the music scene in late 1986 when they released their worldwide hit Breakout they followed this success releasing their debut album It’s Better To Travel in 1987 which reached the top spot.
With 2012 marking the 25th anniversary of this musical masterpiece it has been re-released as a 2CD deluxe edition, the audio is newly re-mastered and includes the original album, plus a CD of B-sides, rarities, and remixes. This newly enhanced 2CD package has been compiled by Swing Out Sister (Corinne Drewery and Andy Connell) and the brand new booklet features sleeve notes written by the band along with some carefully selected photography.
It’s Better To Travel is an exceptional collection of electro-pop songs infused with the sound of jazz and is an album that set Swing Out Sister apart from the rest; cool and relaxed with the blend of horns, carefully thought out synths sounding like strings, drums and xylophones all accompanied with the instantly identifiable vocals of lead singer Corinne Drewery. A selection of laidback songs, like the lounge bar sounding After Hours and Communion 'fused together with some upbeat tempo tracks such as the lively Breakout, jazzpop number Twilight World and Blue Mood. Not forgetting the wonderful brooding track Surrender and Everything80s favourite; It’s Not Enough featuring a well-crafted musical and vocal arrangement that captures you from the opening guitar riff.
It’s not surprising that this album spawned two Top 10 hits, achieved platinum status along with earning the band two Grammy nominations and a host of critical praise. This classic album is a timeless body of work with a natural flow that takes you on a journey, one that doesn’t stay within a particular musical direction but gives you a selection of reflective instrumentals, superb vocal performances as well as a distinguishable sound that is synonymous with Swing Out Sister.
This album will without a doubt sharpen the desire with loyal fans as well as present itself successfully to a new generation. The second CD is full of electrifying material and gives us some B-Sides, alternative mixes, extended versions and edits many of which have never before appeared on CD, from the relaxed slick instrumental of Communion to the fantastic bubbly synth pop sounds of Wake Me When It’s Over.
With their unique blend of cinematic jazz pop it’s no wonder that Swing Out Sister have had huge international success. It’s Better To Travel the 25th Anniversary re-release is now available.
Track Listing
CD1
1. Breakout - (3.46)
2. Twilight World (Superb, Superb Mix) - (6.27)
3. After Hours - (4.48)
4. Blue Mood - (4.18)
5. Surrender - (5.53)
6. Fooled By A Smile - (4.06)
7. Communion - (4.40)
8. It's Not Enough - (3.46)
9. Theme From It's Better To Travel - (4.32)
10. Breakout (N.A.D. Mix) - (5.50)
11. Surrender (Stuff Gun Mix) - (6.40)
12. Twilight World (Gas Distress Mix) - (6.13)
CD2
1. Breakout (A New Rockin' Version) - (5.52)
2. Surrender (Roadrunner Mix) - (6.17)
3. Fooled By A Smile (Ralph Mix) - (6.10)
4. Blue Mood (Dubbed Up Mix) - (6.48)
5. Communion (Instrumental) - (4.43)
6. Dirty Money - (4.09)
7. Fever - (4.33)
8. Who's To Blame? - (5.13)
9. Wake Me When It's Over - (4.34)
10. Another Lost Weekend - (5.27)
11. Blue Mood (Growler Mix) - (6.52)
12. Breakout (Horny Mix) - (4.33)