Jem Records Celebrates Jagger / Richards / Various

2024 collection. The JEM stable of artists have given a baker's dozen worth of Stones classics and deep cuts a fresh coat of sonic paint, paying homage to the songwriting genius of Mick and Keith while simultaneously giving their songs a swift little boot in the ass. Several of the song pairings here are particularly inspired: hearing the Cynz apply a bit of spirited punky raunch to the already lyrically smutty "Star Star" is perfect, for example, while the two contributions from everyone's fave psych-pop heroes the Grip Weeds are just what the doctor ordered. (They play "Dandelion" relatively sweet and straight while transforming "We Love You" into a veritable aural feast, with all-over-the-map vocal harmonies, sharp-edged guitar, and some typically fantastic Kurt Reil drum breaks.) Nick Piunti offers a faithful rendition of "Ruby Tuesday" while the Anderson Council's reading of "Connection" is one of the disc's highlights. And speaking of pure pop, the King of Power Pop, Paul Collins, is onboard for the ride with a wonderful version of "Tell Me," and the Weeklings combine Stonesy swagger, guitar crunch and their signature sweet vocals on a sublime "Rocks Off."