Heartbeat

Big Black were massive Wire fans, so it came as no surprise that they would cover one of Wire's songs. While Wire covers became extremely common years later -- even disguised with new titles on many occasions -- Big Black chose one of the band's lesser known numbers, the hushed "Heartbeat" from Chairs Missing. Lo and behold, they make it cranky and raucous. "Things to Do Today" takes its inspiration from the Billionaire Boys Club (not a band) and plods along to no great effect, sounding like a disregarded toss-away. "I Can't Believe" is a swaggering instrumental of Minutemen-like length, a decent workout but nothing special. ~ Andy Kellman