Photo by Kevin Westenberg
The Breeders are about to cause a seismic wave, heralding the 30th-anniversary celebration of their epoch-making album, Last Splash. They’re not just dusting off old vinyl but infusing it with fresh vibrancy, releasing previously unheard tracks that promise to be a gift to long-time fans.
Last Splash is known best for its resounding hit “Cannonball,” which etched The Breeders’ name deep into the bedrock of alternative music. Adding a delicious layer of symmetry to the festivities, original bandmate Tanya Donnelly is set to step back into the spotlight, this time with her own group, Belly. It’s a poignant nod to the past when Donnelly, as part of The Breeders, gave us the unforgettable “Pod” before Belly took root and blossomed under her stewardship.
This isn’t just an anniversary tour; it’s more akin to a séance, invoking the spirit of uncompromising 90s ferocity. For longtime fans, it’s a nostalgic nod to their alt-rock roots; for those yet to dip a toe into The Breeders’ back catalogue, it’s an invitation to unearth the sonic artifacts that came to define a whole generation of music.
4AD has announced the release of Last Splash (30th Anniversary Original Analog Edition) on September 22nd. Music enthusiasts will be able to savor this feast in digital formats, on CD, and in true retro style – on both black and clear vinyl.
What makes this release noteworthy? It’s the first remastering of the album from the recently discovered original analogue tapes, according to the label. The vinyl iteration, meticulously cut at half-speed at Abbey Road, offers a unique auditory experience via a 45 rpm, 2LP pressing. It’s a loving homage to a record that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences with its raw power and timeless charm.
The new reissue can be pre-ordered now via 4AD’s store.
The vinyl reincarnation of the reissue promises an even richer experience, hosting an exclusive one-sided, etched 12-inch that brings two previously unheard gems to the forefront. According to the label, both of these tracks are time capsules from the original 1993 recording sessions, and they’ve remained in oblivion until now. It was only in the process of unearthing the sessions to forge this new master that these long-lost tracks were rediscovered. They include “Go Man Go,” co-scribed by Kim Deal and former Pixies compatriot Black Francis, and “Divine Mascis,” an alternate cut of “Divine Hammer,” featuring J Mascis of Dinosaur Jr. on lead vocals.
These additions are more than bonus tracks; they are glimpses into the creative process of a seminal band at the peak of its powers. They provide a fresh take on an already beloved album and offer fans a rare opportunity to delve deeper into the band’s rich musical history.
“Go Man Go” has the classic hallmarks of a Black Francis/Frank Black number, with the Deal sisters’ effervescent voices carrying it into the stratosphere. (Pixies fans, blare this one on repeat!)
Watch the performance video below:
The CD edition of the Last Splash reissue boasts a distinct flair, featuring a Japanese vinyl replica sleeve adorned with the original LP art. This version will house a high-definition master of the album, and just like its vinyl counterpart, it too includes the pair of previously unreleased tracks.
The Breeders, with their Last Splash-era line-up — Kim Deal, Kelley Deal, Josephine Wiggs, and Jim Macpherson — reconvened in 2012 to coincide with the 20th-anniversary reissue of the pivotal album. The reunion wasn’t just a brief encore; it set the stage for the group’s fifth album, All Nerve, which came to life in 2018 after substantial touring. Following this, The Breeders took a nostalgic detour with a cover of His Name Is Alive’s “The Dirt Eaters,” which was a part of the Bills & Aches & Blues (40 Years of 4AD) collection, released in 2021.
To further commemorate the 30th anniversary of Last Splash, The Breeders are gearing up for a string of special performances in September and October, where they’ll play the entire album live for their fans. These shows will see them sharing the stage with Belly, Screaming Females, and Horsegirl, depending on the date. Alongside their own headline shows, The Breeders will be firing up crowds as an opening act for the Foo Fighters and making their presence felt at various festivals.
The Breeders Tour Dates:
* Opening for Foo Fighters
** With Horsegirl
*** With Screaming Females
**** With Belly
LAST SPLASH
A1. “New Year”
A2. “Cannonball”
A3. “Invisible Man”
A4. “No Aloha”
B1. “Roi”
B2. “Do You Love Me Now?”
B3. “Flipside”
C1. “I Just Wanna Get Along”
C2. “Mad Lucas”
C3. “Divine Hammer”
C4. “S.O.S.”
D1. “Hag”
D2. “Saints”
D3. “Drivin’ on 9”
D4. “Roi (Reprise)”
BONUS 12-INCH
A1. “Go Man Go”
A2. “Divine Mascis”
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