The Jam like any major band or artist, have seen their back catalogue endlessly exploited since the band split in 1982. There seems to have been a never ending stream of releases with numerous compilation albums of Greatest Hits, Best ofs, live recordings etc. This may keep the cash flowing for the record company, but offers nothing to the real fan who probably has all the recordings in one form or another. This is why "Extras" is such a good compilation, it is a real treasure trove for both the obsessive Jam devotee and for the more casual fan.
"Extras" is made up of various demos, b sides, alternate takes and cover versions, making for a fascinating and varied collection of music and with 26 tracks on the CD it offers great value for money. With such a varied collection it is difficult to pick out certain songs but highlights worthy of a mention are the alternate (and best) version of "Boy about town" the excellent "Tales from the riverbank" and Bruce Foxtons' finest moment "Smithers-Jones", of the many cover versions spirited renditions of Curtis Mayfield's' "Move on up" and The Small Faces "Get yourself together" stand out. The most interesting songs however have to be the demos, which feature raw versions of many Jam favourites featuring just Paul Weller and a guitar, highlighting a truly great songwriter at work. One of the best has to be the demo version of "The Eton Rifles" which went on to become a top three single and a true Jam classic but is played here as a work in progress in its purest form. Magic. If you are a Jam/Weller fan this is a must have album.