I like what little bits I have heard of Joel R.L. Phelps and the Downer Trio. Where would be a good place to start in checking them/him out? Which is the rockingest? Which is the mellowingest? Etc, etc...

Thanks in advance, soldiers.

It's all good stuff frankly.

I find a good introduction is the self titled EP from 1997. It has a couple of his best songs, namely 'Good Advice for Dogs'. It's quite chilled so it's nice and easy to listen to. '3' is along those lines but overall quite downbeat by comparison. Personally, 'Blackbird' is the highlight of the discography. Some rocking material up-front and the rest is more contemplative, traditionally dour Phelps. 'Lost Continent' may well be my fave Phelps song overall.

Customs and Blackbird are the most rockin' of Joel's post-SKWM albums. Both are excellent records: great songs, great recording, great playing. What more could you ask for?

The only other record I'm familiar with is 3 which is more mellow, but still very good.

The first song on Blackbird, called "Then Slowly Turn", is probably my favorite song that Joel has written.

tommydski wrote:'Lost Continent' may well be my fave Phelps song overall.

He didn't write it. It's a Comsat Angels song, I think.

I did not know that!

I haven't heard anything by that band, I'll have to check them out.

Yeah, Lost Continent is Comsat's.

Tommy, there is a good little assortment of Comsat Angels songs on the sendspace thread towards the beginning. I think mr arrison might have posted it.

They are all really good, in my opinion. I like Customs the most. Last time I checked the record stores around here didn't have any of his stuff, just so you know.

"Razorback" is one of my favorite songs in the world.

"3" is my favorite.

Joel Phelps the Downer Trio are fucking amazing. It's to the point that I feel guilty when I realize how much I like that band and that voice.

Join eMusic for the free trial and download what you can since it's a pain in the ass to used-bin this stuff.

Just buy everything. I listened to Silkworm for years before I decided to dig into the Trio and I wish I would have done it so much earlier. I think 3 is gorgeous and the self-titled EP is perfect.

I remember hearing Joel's cover of Skwm's "The City Glows" on some realaudio webcast years ago. Anyone else?

Ooh looky. Some videos.

'When Will We' (Acoustic, Solo)

'Who Can I Burn?' - (Acoustic, Live)

Making of 'Customs' - (Montage)