The Replacements “Let It Be” (1984): Twin/Tone

Did the 1980s produce a better band than the Replacements? Say what you will about London, New York, Seattle and Athens, Ga.; I’ve always considered Minneapolis to be the capital of the post-punk era, chiefly because of Husker Du and the Replacements.

“Let It Be” is the first of the Replacements’ Holy Trilogy (which also includes 1985’s “Tim” and 1987’s “Pleased to Meet Me”), albums that established this band as not only fun but great. Through their first three records before the band’s breakup, these guys were lovable drunks with attitude. With “Let It Be” came melody and, for leader Paul Westerberg, songwriting craft. But they hadn’t gotten out of the garage yet and certainly were as sardonic and irreverant as ever (as borrowing the title from a relatively well-known record would indicate).

Everything that was wonderful about the Replacements is on display here. “I Will Dare” and “Favorite Thing” are pure pop heaven. “Androgynous” is a hilarious and touching love ballad. “Unsatisfied” is a furious post-punk anthem of Angst . We also get a healthy dose of the band’s trademark humor/anger hybrid: “Tommy Gets His Tonsils Out,” “Seen Your Video” and “Answering Machine.” Oh, and for good measure, we get a snazzy little cover of a Kiss song (“Black Diamond”).

“Let It Be” can be taken seriously or not at all, and either way is equally rewarding. Which is what the Replacements were all about. God, I miss ‘em.