Hi Sheriffs of Blue, untitled singles compilation (12" EP)

The Hi Sheriffs of Blue released two 7"s, in 1980 and then 1981, before collecting the four songs on to this 12" EP, which is packaged in a plain black disco-sleeve.  Only a year later, in 1982, the group, with an expanded line-up, recorded a more polished four-song EP.  That EP featured more careful musicianship and a sonically clearer technical quality.  The original singles document the group in its simpler and more primitive state.  Mark Dagley's involvement with the Girls traces a more direct line here, with similarly atonal and narrative vocals.  In addition to Dagley's past band, these songs draw from both their no-wave counterparts and blues-based rock.  The style foreshadows the way '90s bands from the Blues Explosion to Royal Trux loosely and creatively drew from blues-based influences in a more abstract and primitive setting.  Hi Sheriffs of Blue did not assume an ironic posture, but took a more literal path to chaos that feels closer to their peers in New York at the time.  The A-side songs, from the first single, are more driving rockers, while the two parts of "Cold Chills", from the 1981 single, employ starker arrangements.