Before
the Goo Goo Dolls evolved into the modern-rock superstars who would record late-'90s radio smashes, such as "Name" and "Slide," they were an energetic trio of drunken nobodies, spewing forth a mixture of relentless thrash and sloppy punk. First Release exhibits a carefree attitude and a sense of humor, but little sign of what was to come. "Livin' in a Hut," "Beat Me," and "I'm Addicted" are undeniably catchy, and
the Goos' rowdy covers of "Sunshine of Your Love" and "Don't Fear the Reaper" are entertaining, but none of the material matches the efforts displayed on later releases such as
Hold Me Up and
Superstar Car Wash. In fact, the uninitiated may be amazed to realize that the same band who recorded a sensitive ballad such as "Iris" would be capable of writing a song entitled "Don't Beat My Ass (With a Baseball Bat)." Stylistic differences aside, this release is unique because it is the group's only album on which bassist
Robby Takac handles all lead vocals. Later, as guitarist
Johnny Rzeznik grew into his role as the
Goo Goo Dolls' visionary, the band's songwriting and musicianship dramatically improved with each release. Still, First Release is an enjoyable introduction to a band with better days ahead.