Name: Idiot Optimism
Brand: Van Duren

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

OVLP376

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Colour

Black

Colour details

Discogs ID

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Format Music GB

Limited edition

Release date

2020-10-30

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier GB

The Orchard

Tax rate GB

Standard:20

UPC / Barcode

816651018888

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Total Cap

2 / Extended format: No / LP / Rough Trade Exclusive: No / Signed copies: No / black

Artist

Van Duren

Genre GB

Alternative / Modern

Label GB

Omnivore

Omnivore Recordings is an independent record label based in Los Angeles, USA. Founded in 2010 by music industry veterans Cheryl Pawelski, Greg Allen, Dutch Cramblitt, and Brad Rosenberger, the label specializes in preserving legacies and music created by historical, heritage, and catalog artists. They are also known for releasing previously unissued and newly found "lost" recordings.

With a mission to honor the rich musical history of artists from various genres, Omnivore Recordings has acquired the catalogs of renowned musicians such as *The Buck Owens Estate*, *Big Star*, and *Game Theory* in 2017. This acquisition further solidifies their commitment to preserving important musical works that may have otherwise been forgotten or lost.

As a leading authority on archival releases and reissues, Omnivore Recordings ensures that fans of these artists can continue to enjoy their timeless music while introducing new audiences to their incredible talent. With a dedication to quality sound restoration and comprehensive liner notes, they provide listeners with an immersive experience into the artist's world.

Van Duren is synonymous with the 70's Memphis Power Pop scene, playing with the likes of Chris Bell and Jody Stephens and at one point auditioning as the 2nd guitar player for Big Star just before the band's demise. Van Duren went on to leave Memphis to record one of the great albums of the late 70's "Are You Serious?" and is still releasing albums and playing live around Memphis.

With a sound that captures the essence of power pop, Van Duren has established himself as a legendary figure in music history. His collaborations with notable artists such as *Chris Bell* and *Jody Stephens* have solidified his place within the influential Memphis music scene. Despite narrowly missing out on joining Big Star, Van Duren embarked on a solo career that resulted in the creation of his iconic album "Are You Serious?".

Continuing to make waves in the industry, Van Duren remains an active force in both recording and performing. With his distinct style reminiscent of bands like *Blue Ash*, *The Scruffs*, and *Prix*, he continues to captivate audiences with his timeless sound. Fans can catch him live at various venues throughout Memphis while eagerly anticipating new releases from this enduring artist.

Van Duren’s sophomore album, finally released with creative control from Duren. 

After the release of Are You Serious? Van Duren immediately returned to the studio—recording 14 tracks (one being a medley of two songs) that rivaled his tremendous debut. But, the album was shelved and didn’t see the light of day for two decades, when inexplicably, it was released in Japan without any input from the artist. 

The story is chronicled in the acclaimed documentary Waiting: The Van Duren Story. With full creative control from Duren, this reissue of idiot Optimism is packaged with new art, liners from Van outlining the story of the album, and many previously unseen photos. Featuring 14 originals and a cover of Chris Bell’s (Big Star) Make A Scene, this new edition is remastered from the original analog tapes. Idiot Optimism has never looked nor sounded better.

Idiot Optimism

Music GB