Best albums of the week: Local H’s reFISTED

Local H celebrates the 30th anniversary of their first album in a bold move by releasing “reFISTED,” a full re-recording of their 1995 classic “Ham Fisted.” This new album represents a defiant do-over for the band. Founder and frontman Scott Lucas describes the process as a “fistfight with myself at 24 years old,” showcasing a decision to revisit and reimagine songs written three decades ago.

The band approached the original recording of “Ham Fisted” as a demo, but “reFISTED” sees them taking the opportunity to radically rework and rearrange tracks, sometimes aiming to create even meaner and heavier versions of the originals. Recorded and mixed with Greg Norman at Steve Albini’s legendary studio Electrical Audio, “reFISTED” aims to recast the record as a release from the early ’90s Touch & Go label, adding a nostalgic touch to their new sound.

To breathe new life into these songs, Lucas enlisted a range of collaborators representing the band’s entire history and fresh talent. The album features guest appearances from past bandmates and musicians Lucas has collaborated with in other projects, like Eric Oblander (Five Horse Johnson, Clutch) and Max Crawford (Poi Dog Pondering). Additionally, the album introduces new faces like Deanna Belos of Sincere Engineer and members of Tuff Sudz, blending nostalgia with vitality and ensuring a fresh perspective on Local H’s enduring power.

Ultimately, “reFISTED” stands as a testament to the band’s ongoing strength and vitality, offering a fresh take on the raw energy that catapulted Local H into rock ‘n’ roll history. The album showcases their evolution over the past 30 years, showcasing their ability to reinvent themselves while staying true to their roots. With an array of new arrangements and guest appearances, “reFISTED” is a celebration of Local H’s journey through the music industry and a nod to the sound that defined them.