2000 Great Songs #1347: All For The Best

Seems like a million years since we talked about "The Backyard," the wonderful jangle-pop classic from the 1984 Miracle Legion EP of the same name. So now we're circling back to what is, both musically and lyrically, a sequel of sorts. If "The Backyard" was a wistful, longing look back at childhood memories and the impact of imposing family figures--a parent? an older sibling?--"All For The Best" seems to pick up right where that one left off. The track, off 1987's debut long-player Surprise, Surprise, Surprise, offers more lovely, melodic jangle, a bit darker, but once again weaving together family memories with acquired wisdom. It's a gorgeous, sentimental tune, specific in its touchstones but general enough to embrace as your own. And the little drum breaks, giving the tune some breathing room, are remarkable in their simplicity.

Live 1996:

Solo acoustic cover from Radiohead's Thom Yorke:

Live, here at San Francisco's intimate Chapel, 2017:

Frances Cone cover:

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