In The Presence Of Greatness

There just aren't that many classic power pop tales that begin with, "straight outta Rhode Island," but the clam neck state offered up Velvet Crush in 1989 and they'd work their way into one of the decade's oft overlooked gems. To be fair the band actually got it together in Southern Illinois college towns, where the band's Paul Chastain was helping care out a sound running the Picture Book label. The band picked up roots and headed to Providence, but nabbed some help from friend and fellow power-pop impresario Matthew Sweet. Sweet would record In The Presence of Greatness as well as play guitar on the LP. The band share's a considerable crossover with his love of The Raspberries and Big Star, showcasing a similar love for the jangled, classic version of the genre on their debut.