GUIDED BY VOICES – Devil Between My Toes (2022 Reissue) – LP – Coloured Vinyl – Default Title

LP Limited Edition Coloured Vinyl

(Housed in a tip-on jacket sleeve.)

Devil Between My Toes was the debut album by Guided By Voices, originally self-released by the group in February 1987 in an edition of 300 copies. Disillusioned by the lukewarm reception to the bands debut EP the previous year, Robert Pollard resolved that this record would be conceived for an audience of one: (it) is strictly for me and me only. Because no ones going to buy it, no one gives a fuck, but Im still gonna do it. So I might as well put only what I want on it, for me. An album for me.

Even amongst the 30-odd proper GBV albums, Devil Between My Toes remains unique, and not simply because it was the first to be released. Much like its out-of-focus cover photo of the mean rooster next door (Big Daddy), the albums vibe is dark, minimalist, and mysterious. Most of the album was recorded as a trio, and it contains more instrumentals than any other GBV album, but like the best LPs in their catalog, the sequencing renders these tracks essential to the flow and mood of the LP.

While there are the expected Brit Invasion hook-fests sprinkled throughout, were also treated to career highlights like the monolithic A Portrait Destroyed by Fire (Tobin Sprouts first GBV appearance) and Cyclops, a track that would be right at home on Vampire On Titus had it been recorded more crudely.

Tracklisting:

A1. Old Battery
A2. Discussing Wallace Chambers
A3. Cyclops
A4. Crux
A5. A Portrait Destroyed By Fire
A6. 3 Year Old Man
A7. Dogs Out

B1. A Proud And Booming Industry
B2. Hanks Little Fingers
B3. Artboat
B4. Hey Hey, Spaceman
B5. The Tumblers
B6. Bread Alone
B7. Captains Dea