‘Everything in Transit: 10th Anniversary Edition’
Jack’s Mannequin (Rhino)
4 stars out of 5
A decade ago, the sky appeared to be the limit for Andrew McMahon. When his Something Corporate bandmates decided to take some time off, McMahon poured his energy into solo side project Jack’s Mannequin. The result was 2005’s sublime “Everything in Transit,” a ridiculously catchy piano-pop album — featuring Motley Crue’s Tommy Lee on drums, no less — that gave every indication that Jack’s Mannequin was going to be the next big thing.
As fate would have it, however, McMahon was diagnosed with acute lymphatic leukemia on the day he completed the album. A summer tour had to be scrapped as McMahon underwent treatment for the cancer and Jack’s Mannequin’s momentum — at least for the time being — stalled. Happily, McMahon made a full recovery and continues to tour and record to this day … but he’s never again matched the sheer awesomeness of his debut album.
The folks at Rhino are celebrating the anniversary of “Everything in Transit” with a special two-CD edition of the platter. Disc 1 is a remastered version of the original album — and standout cuts “Holiday From Real,” “The Mixed,” “Bruised,” “Dark Blue” and “Kill the Messenger” have never sounded better. Disc 2 features eight rare recordings, including six previously unreleased tracks. Among the highlights are non-album single “The Lights and Buzz,” live readings of “Kill the Messenger” and “I’m Ready,” and a dynamite acoustic version of “Bruised.” Highly recommended. (Jeffrey Sisk)
Pittsburgh In Tune 