Thirty-six (!) years after its original release, Adam And The Ants’ landmark sophomore release has arrived with a spiffy new deluxe edition, complete with remastered sound, bonus tracks, and an extra disc full of live tracks. The amazing thing about this reissue is the sound. Right away from opening track “Dog Eat Dog,” the sound just comes right at you; in short, it flippin’ sounds amazing! “Dog Eat Dog” is quite the opening track and still holds up very well all these years later. “Antmusic,” the other main single from the original album, sounds like an ’80s track, but again the new sound makes everything feel fresh and full of life.

Tracks like “Los Rancheros” must’ve sounded like they were from another planet when first heard and damn if they don’t impress to this day. It’s clear listening to this record that this was a band destined to do things their way at whatever the cost. After hearing these tracks, it’s clear why Adam And The Ants are way more revered and remembered than say, ABC or Flock Of Seagulls.

It cannot be unstated that Marco Pirroni is one of the great unsung guitarists of the last 50 years of rock. Just so punishing and so understated at the same time, he is a musician that needs to be heard, particularly on “Jolly Roger” and “Don’t Be Square (Be There),” to be believed.

Among the album’s extras, the B-side “Physical (You’re So)” just cries out to be included on the original disc. Very punishing, very heavy, not like say, “Friend Or Foe” or “Goody Two Shoes,” it definitely stands out as one of Adam Ant’s boldest musical statements.

The second disc comprises a live set from Chicago in 1981. While it sounds very raw, it maintains its original feel, without having any added sounds or instruments to the mix. Despite the rawness, the primitive power of the music still comes through. Suffice to say, I was very blown away by this new package and now have a completely new respect for Adam Ant. This is very easy to say but damn if this isn’t one of the most amazing and mind-expanding records of the early ’80s.

Rating: B+

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