What is the quintessential quick listening experience? Obviously, that's going to vary for everyone, but for me I think it has to be something that doesn't exist in a single emotional state or single place in time. Maybe it's that short recording that leaves you with something you always need.
Inconcerated Live is a promotional release (from what I can tell) from the Replacements composed of 5 live recordings and one album track from Don't Tell a Soul ("Achin' To Be"). The copy I possess has a radio station's call letters printed directly on the disk. This may not be the easiest item to find. Perhaps I'm not supposed to have this.
I would really like to be able to say I'm a huge Replacements fan, but my personal collection is a little limited. And, my familiarity with their older stuff is minimal. I really like Let It Be, but, I also really like Don't Tell a Soul. With this background in mind, some 'Mats fans might have a different view. But, in my opinion, it would be hard to dabble better in the world of the Replacements then this little promotion.
Leading with "Talent Show" and ending with "Achin' To Be", it's pretty clear this is Don't Tell a Soul-era advertising. The magic, however, is between these two. "Answering Machine" has a wonderful, sparse beginning with expressive and clear singing by Paul Westerberg that really conveys the beauty of this piece. "Anywhere's Better Than Here" is full of life and has these wonderful audience moments at the chorus. "Another Girl, Another Planet" is an excellent cover of a song originally recorded by The Only Ones. And, "Here Comes a Regular" is an awesome live version of one of the great songs, in which audience participation, lyrical variations, and impassioned singing combine to create a very special experience. It is clear that the people in that room love that song.
I listen to Inconcerated Live when I want something on which I can't quite put my finger. By the time "Here Comes a Regular" finishes, I feel alive and emotional. A perfect quick listen.