Originally released 1996, CD Only
2026 Geffen, First vinyl pressing
x2 Dark Indigo LP
Cut at Black Belt Mastering by Levi Seitz
Clarity: 4.1
Dynamics: 3.6
Tonality/Balance: 3.5
Soundstage/Image: 4
Pressing: 4
I've had this on CD since '96 and never liked the mix/mastering. When Greg Calbi remastered it in '98 it was a significant improvement but no vinyl...until now. Cut by Levi Seitz at Black Belt Mastering and this beats the OG disc and '98 CD. What makes this more immersive than the '98 CD (which is pretty damn good, BTW) is the headroom and separation. Thankfully, Mr. Seitz didn't boost the low end and crush the midrange like so many modern pressings. This is hot, crunchy and well-balanced with very tight bass. It still reveals the limitations of the original mix at times, but this is a new experience for those of us very familiar with the music. The 3D soundstage is wonderful. Holy Hell, listen to that pedal steel!! WOW!
Final Grade: 3.84