Pearl Jam
"vs. & Vitalogy 3 CD Deluxe Edition"
(Epic Records)
4 out of 5 stars

I have a running theory that the culture of the ‘90s is coming back in full force, similar to what the ‘80s did in the last decade.

Pearl Jam is doing their part to prove my theory correct with their re-release of their second and third albums, “Vs.” and “Vitalogy,” along with a live set of a 1994 show at Boston’s Orpheum Theater.

The two studio albums are remastered and packaged with some interesting artwork as well as previously unreleased bonus tracks and alternate takes of tracks. One that stands out in particular is a version of “Better Man,” on “Vitalogy,” performed using only vocals, guitar and organ, changing the song’s “vibe” a bit, but still showing a strong face.

Outside of those changes, the albums are largely the same as they were when they were released: solid, strong rock efforts. The “Live At The Orpheum” disc provides more novelty: live versions of some of their tracks from “Ten,” “Vs.,” and “Vitalogy,” as well as some unreleased tracks and covers, including an excellent rendition of “Sonic Reducer,” a classic of early punk music.

There’s nothing really revolutionary about this box set, but there’s plenty of good music to get. These albums are still as good as they always have been, and they’re worth picking up if you don’t have them already, or wanting the remastered versions.

— AJ Lansdale/The Daily