Recorded at the height of the Demented Era, the first Rude Awakening tape offers an oral example of this time. Done in a recording group format, the RA attempts to transcend the Demented Era to a musical form. Even though it is not true literature, it easily demonstrates the mood of the time. The forces of insanity and boredom clash head on in a soul-baring orgy of surrealism that leaves the listener breathless. If someone needs an initial taste of the Demented Era, all he/she needs to do is listen to the lyrics of "Sauce", "Spam", "Juice" and "Erotic George". "Pick a Service" and "Charlie Brown" are both adequate, but really should have been left out. "Kooky Encyclopedia" is completely abstract and surrealistic, and is led by Jones' throat-ripping vocals. Perhaps the funniest is the spur-of-the-moment "Naked Kip". Under ten seconds in length, this song may have the best timing of anything the RA or the Keasman have done. All in all, this tape is a classic example of the Demented Era and richly deserves to be listened to.

Outtakes and rehersals done at David Taylor's country hideaway. Though they lack the vitality of the original recordings, they certainly are creditable - for hardcore RA devottees only. Notable only for "Poot Father".

CM