Oasis (2) – Whatever

Part of the batch of reissues released to mark the band getting the rights to their music since Creation Records closed up shop, this single marked a turning point in the group's career. Originally premiered between the first & second album's by Oasis, 'Whatever' was the group's first taste in the true Britpop sound, hosting a catchy singalong chorus and a string sections as back up creating what would be considered an atypical view at the state of rock n' roll in the mid 90's. Seen as a decisive piece between the fans 'Whatever' still manages to hold it's own within the group's back catalogue, showcasing what was to come (both in it's style and length).
First up on the b-side roster is the down and dirty '(It's Good) To Be Free' which moves from pillar to post with it's Northern ego held firmly inside their fist, only to give way to an impromptu sea shanty towards it's climax which comes out of nowhere. Then there's the acoustic beast 'Half The World Away', known by many as the eventual theme tune for long running comedy series 'The Royale Family' this softly sung ballad sees Noel doing what he does best by sitting in a corner and playing to himself. The track is top tier Oasis and a part of their massive back catalogue of B-sides that could have held it's own on an album as a deep cut, or even better a single!
Last is a song from the group's debut album 'Definitely Maybe' - a favourite among fans and the band 'Slide Away' is a wonderful swansong and holds a beautiful sense of nihilism within it's wistful lyrics, creating a perfect closer to the releases' runtime. Together this makes for a release from a legendary act that is a must have, with the only difference between this and the original outing being the change in label it doesn't really matter which version you obtain, but sometimes it's just nice to have a matching set, so you know... whatever.