Out of print for years, the 30th Anniversary Edition of Manic Compression has been remastered from the original 1995 master tapes by Jack Shirley at The Atomic Garden and updated with meticulously reconstructed artwork by Melinda Beck.
A defining record of post-hardcore innovation and a landmark of the ’90s alternative rock landscape, Manic Compression shows Quicksand expanding on the foundation of their debut with sharper dynamics and streamlined aggression.
from the label
If you’re checking out Manic Compression, you may also want to explore:
• Slip (Standard Edition) | 30th Anniversary Edition of their debut LP
• Manic Compression (Deluxe Edition) | expanded gatefold pressing
• Manic Compression (Book Edition) | deluxe LP + hardcover companion book
About the Album
If Slip announced Quicksand’s arrival, Manic Compression proved they weren’t just a moment — they were a movement. Released in 1995, the record builds on the tension and intensity of their debut with a tighter, more dynamic set of songs that helped carry post-hardcore into broader alternative and rock conversations.
Opening track “Backward” throws listeners into an immediate surge of slashing guitars and rhythmic intent, while “Thorn in My Side” captured considerable attention with its raw urgency and melodic urgency. Across tracks like “Landmine Spring” and “Delusional,” Quicksand balances jagged riffs with atmospheric space, threading a unique sound that influenced bands across genres.
Upon release, Manic Compression earned the band wider recognition and helped solidify their place in the 90s rock and post-hardcore landscape. Its enduring influence can still be heard in groups from Cave In to Thrice and beyond.
Track Listing
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Backward
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Delusional
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Divorce
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Simpleton
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Skinny (It’s Overflowing)
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Thorn in My Side
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Landmine Spring
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Blister
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Brown Gargantuan
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East 3rd St.
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Supergenius
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It Would Be Cooler If You Did
Credits & Production
Recorded by Walter Schreifels (Gorilla Biscuits, Youth of Today), Tom Capone (Beyond, Bold), Sergio Vega (Deftones, Moondog), and Alan Cage (Beyond, Seaweed).
Produced by Wharton Tiers (Sonic Youth, Helmet) and Don Fury (Sick of It All, Agnostic Front).
Remastered for this anniversary release by Jack Shirley at The Atomic Garden.