“Genius + Love = Yo La Tengo” is a 2-disc album by Yo La Tengo, consisting of rarities, alternate versions, and out-takes, spanning 1988 to 1995. The album was originally released on Matador Records in 1996
Back in print for the first time in over 20 years, the compilation assembles more than two hours of hard to find and unreleased Yo La Tengo music from 1988 – 1995. If there’s anything Yo La Tengo have in spades, it’s a superb music taste. This collection of outtakes and demos guides you through the inspired moments of creativity that they share. ‘Cast A Shadow’ covers K Records head honcho’s group Beat Happening brilliantly. ‘Speeding Motorcycle’ goes one further – it has the actual Daniel Johnston featuring on it as well as being a cover. The latter came from his fifth self-released cassette tape, Yip/Jump Music. There’s also a Ramones, Wire “Too Late”. and John Cale “Hanky Panky Nohow” cover.
We think you get our point – astounding references. Of their own material, ‘Sunsquashed’ – a 26-minute jam that emphasizes their experimental and improvisational nature is a must. Free from the shackles of producing an album in the traditional sense, what you end up with is a fantastic and imaginative collection, which hammers home just how brilliant Yo La Tengo are for indie rock.
The second disc consists entirely of instrumental pieces. Included are songs previously recorded by the group (such as an 8-second drum solo), and covers, such as the Urinals’ “Surfin’ with the Shah,” and a wedding-band-like rendition of the Ramones’ “Blitzkrieg Bop.”
The Fat Angel Sings 