Daniel Johnston’s ‘Artistic Vice’ Reissued on Deluxe Vinyl with Unreleased Tracks
Five years after his passing, Daniel Johnston remains a beloved figure in DIY, lo-fi, and outsider music. His dedicated cult following continues to grow, and his influence on independent music is undeniable. In a testament to his lasting impact, Johnston’s 1991 album Artistic Vice is being repressed onto double vinyl and will include a collection of previously unreleased songs from Johnston’s archive. This highly anticipated deluxe reissue is a tribute to the Sacramento artist’s unique voice and creative genius.
Artistic Vice: Johnston’s First Studio Album
Before the release of Artistic Vice, Daniel Johnston had already developed a significant cult following. He spent years recording DIY releases onto cassette tapes, distributing them within the local music scene from the McDonald’s branch where he worked. These DIY releases showcased his distinct voice, raw sound, and unconventional recording techniques, helping him establish a loyal fanbase. Artistic Vice marked his first full-length studio album, released after years of self-produced cassettes.
While Artistic Vice was Johnston’s first studio-produced work, it followed 12 DIY albums and cassettes he had recorded prior. The album was released shortly after his stay at the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, offering a unique perspective on his mental health struggles. Unlike some of his earlier, darker releases like 1990, Artistic Vice provides a more complex and optimistic outlook, all while staying true to Johnston’s lo-fi aesthetic.
The Deluxe Vinyl Reissue: Unreleased Tracks and Special Features
Fans of Daniel Johnston will be excited to learn that the upcoming deluxe edition of Artistic Vice will feature a wealth of new material. In addition to the original LP, the double-vinyl release will include an entire record of unreleased tracks, consisting of demos, rehearsal outtakes, and songs that were cut from the final mix in 1991. One of these unreleased tracks, ‘All Good Children Got to Die’, has already been released ahead of the album, showcasing the emotional depth and genius of Johnston’s songwriting during this period.
This collector’s edition of Artistic Vice is more than just a musical experience. It will include a brand-new lyric booklet and rare photographs of Johnston and his collaborators, The EYE Band, with whom he worked on the album. This release also features contributions from the band members themselves, with quotes and anecdotes reflecting on their time working with Johnston.
Artistic Vice: The Evolution of Daniel Johnston’s Sound
Artistic Vice represents a significant milestone in Daniel Johnston’s career, as it was the first time he worked with a full band rather than recording solo. The collaboration with The EYE Band brought new layers to his already distinctive style, enhancing the lo-fi sound that Johnston had become known for. The album’s unique blend of raw production and heartfelt lyrics continues to resonate with fans, solidifying Johnston’s place as one of lo-fi music’s most influential figures.
The remastering of Artistic Vice for this reissue was handled by Johnston’s longtime collaborator Kramer, who originally published the album through his Shimmy Disc label in the 1990s. Kramer’s involvement ensures that the remastered edition retains the authenticity of Johnston’s original vision while improving the overall audio quality for modern listeners.
Release Date for the Artistic Vice Collector’s Edition
The deluxe vinyl reissue of Artistic Vice is set to release on October 18th, marking the first time since its initial release that the album has been fully reissued on its own. In the years since its debut, Artistic Vice has often been paired with 1990 in compilations, but this new edition gives the album its own spotlight.
For fans of Daniel Johnston or collectors of lo-fi and outsider music, the Artistic Vice Collector’s Edition is a must-have. With unreleased tracks, new visuals, and remastered audio, it’s a comprehensive celebration of one of Johnston’s most significant works.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the significance of Daniel Johnston’s Artistic Vice album?
Artistic Vice is Daniel Johnston’s first studio album, released in 1991. It marked a transition from his DIY cassette recordings to a more polished sound, all while retaining his signature lo-fi style.
2. What new material is included in the Artistic Vice deluxe reissue?
The deluxe reissue includes a second vinyl record featuring previously unreleased demos, rehearsal outtakes, and tracks cut from the original 1991 album.
3. When is the Artistic Vice Collector’s Edition being released?
The reissue is scheduled for release on October 18th, 2024. It will be available as a double vinyl set, featuring remastered audio and special bonus content.
4. Who worked on the remastering of Artistic Vice?
The album has been remastered by Kramer, Johnston’s collaborator and the original publisher of Artistic Vice through his Shimmy Disc label.
5. What is included in the collector’s edition of Artistic Vice?
The collector’s edition includes a deluxe double-vinyl set, a lyric booklet, rare photographs of Johnston and The EYE Band, and unreleased tracks.
6. How can I listen to one of the unreleased tracks from the reissue?
One of the unreleased tracks, titled ‘All Good Children Got to Die’, has been released ahead of the album’s reissue and can be streamed on select music platforms.
External Resource:
For more insights into Daniel Johnston’s life and music, visit Hi, How Are You Project, an organization that celebrates his legacy and supports mental health awareness.
