Also: Read our feature on Centro-matic, which plays the Georgia Theatre Friday, Dec. 5 as part of the band’s farewell tour.
1. Redo the Stacks (1996)
The songs on Centro-matic’s debut fall somewhere between punk and abstract impressionism. Johnson’s voice is noticeably youthful, but the powerful, timeless songs will continue to resonate for anyone with a penchant for loud rock tunes nestled between carefully crafted acoustic arrangements.
2. Take Pride in Your Long Odds (2014)
Centro-matic’s final album should not be dismissed. From the lush instrumental title track that kicks off the record to the fuzzed-out “Salty Disciple,” the swan song is as polished and inspired as any of the band’s other records.
3. Fort Recovery (2006)
Engineered, as most of the band’s albums are, by drummer Matt Pence, Fort Recovery might be Centro-matic’s most representative work. The one-two punch of “Calling Thermatico” and “Patience for the Ride” is among the best music the band ever recorded.
4. Candidate Waltz (2011)
Johnson’s voice sounds absolutely haunted on this masterpiece, in the best possible way. “Estimate x 3” and album closer “If They Talk You Down” are bone-chillingly beautiful. This record was ready-made for a live setting, so it’s no surprise many of these songs became fast fan favorites.
5. Live at the Georgia Theatre, 4/9/2012
After opening for Drive-By Truckers in August 2011 to celebrate Georgia Theatre’s re-opening, Centro-matic returned the following spring to the venue where they will play their final Athens show. Sloan Simpson’s recording, available on Southern Shelter, showcases the band at its finest.
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