Yip! Jump Music [Remaster] (CD - 1983)

As for his early music, Yip/Jump Music may be the best place to begin immersing yourself in the world of Daniel Johnston. Extremely primitively recorded with little instrumentation other than keyboards, Johnston's upbeat mood makes this a funny, sometimes moving exercise in obsessive behavior. Two things he thinks about a lot, the Beatles and Casper the Friendly Ghost, are the subject of songs, along with his usual examinations of unattainable love. Not the easiest record in the Johnston canon, but a rewarding one nonetheless. ~ John Dougan

This 20-song set collects songs originally self-released as cassettes on Johnston's own Stress label. Johnston's songs are honest and direct, delivered in a style that is all his own. He finds inspiration in both his love of music and his lifelong struggles with mental illness. Johnston's songs have been covered by a number of other artists, including Yo La Tengo and Kathy McCarty (the latter devoted an entire album to his material, DEAD DOG'S EYEBALL).

YIP/JUMP MUSIC is primitively recorded, as Johnston provides musical accompaniment with cheap keyboards. However, his sense of pop dynamics, hooks, and song structure help bring about song after memorable song. Tracks like "Sorry Entertainer," "Speeding Motorcycle," and "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Your Grievances" are full of hope, optimism, and unquenchable love. minimize