Up from the Catacombs: The Best of Jane's Addiction [PA] (CD - 2006)

Personnel: Dave Navarro (guitar, keyboards); Eric Avery (acoustic guitar); Stephen Perkins (drums, percussion).

Audio Remasterers: Dan Hersch; Bill Inglot.

Liner Note Author: Gilbert Kaufman.

Photographers: Roger Viollet; Hugh Brown.

Released in 2006, UP FROM THE CATACOMBS has the distinction of being the first comprehensive overview of the seminal alternative-rock act Jane's Addiction. Fronted by the ever-transgressive vocalist Perry Farrell, the L.A.-based group created a strangely compelling mix of punk, funk, and goth, all channeled through some serious Led Zep worship. This collection hits many of the ensemble's high points, ranging from the frenetic "Stop" and the stomping "Mountain Song" to the moody, dynamic opus "Three Days" and the definitive live version of the folk-tinged "Jane Says," all of which showcase guitarist Dave Navarro's remarkably versatile skills. Though some fans may take issue with early-era exclusions and latter-day inclusions, the compilation is a solid sampler of the Jane's catalog, making for an ideal introduction to the wildly innovative band. minimize