The Rolling Stones - Exile on Main St. (Rarities Edition) (Universal Music) ****

This is not a new record by The Rolling Stones, but at the same time the material is being released for the first time. Much has been said about this legendary album, originally released as a double LP. This set features the unreleased tracks and some alternative takes. The spirit of that time is still here, and can be heard. The band certainly played great, and that undisputed rock attitude is still lurking here.

Listening to this album, one quickly realizes how The Rolling Stones were able to maintain their staying power, and why they are one of the most successful acts to this day. There is magic in these songs. They sound great as a whole; this is like a sport team. Great as a whole, and that’s how they were meant to be heard. Despite some very popular tracks, this is a record and the band meant for you to experience the process.

These rarities were obviously not included in the original release, but these are still vital tracks. The band had a lot of good material on their hands, and they still picked a killer record. The left over tracks do not lack any quality, they are as good as the tracks that made it, they just weren’t as lucky.

Mark Kadzielawa