For Completists Only

Archives Series Vol. 2 is the latest release from Iron and Wine (AKA Sam Beam)—a seven inch vinyl single with only one song on each side, both covers. This follows Sing into My Mouth, a collection of covers, and Archives Series Vol. 1, a collection of rarities—specifically, home recordings that were cut out from sessions in 2002 and 2003. In an era when it is all too easy to record any and all studio output, when reams of work can fit on a thumb drive, the novelty of previously-unreleased material and session outtakes has greatly diminished. For the jaded, a limited pressing of seven inch records can feel like a money grab. For the slightly less jaded, it can feel like overt fan service. If you’re a true believer or an Iron & Wine completist, go right ahead and try to snap up one of the 2000 limited copies.

Even if breathy, bedroom-style recordings aren’t your style, it may still be worth your effort to track down the digital release of Beam’s rendition of the Four Tops’ classic, “It’s the Same Old Song.” When the hook kicks in, the familiarity of the original contrasts with the unusual arrangement to create an extraordinary effect. Unfortunately, his version of Neil Young’s “Albuquerque” is significantly less interesting.

If you want a limited release oddity to brag about to your friends, then by all means, go ahead and seek out the vinyl version of this record, complete with it’s garish pseudo outsider/street art jacket. Otherwise, stick with the digital versions, or wait and see if the tracks are released on a full-length compilation.