The Mommyheads achieved cult status in the 1990s, touring relentlessly, releasing five critically acclaimed albums, and influencing a generation of today’s alternative bands with their unique style of progressive, quirky, melodic, groovy pop. Disbanding in 1998, the band has continued to reward its loyal fan base with occasional shows and releases, including 2008’s outstanding You’re Not A Dream (Bladen County Records), and a remastered, bonus track laden reissue of Flying Suit on Dromedary Records.

In support of the reissue of Flying Suit, the band (Adam Elk, Dan Fisherman, Michael Holt and Jeff Palmer) embarked on a successful tour of Sweden, booked in part by ardent fans. “They were, like, ‘We’re going to make sure you get back together and come here,’” explained singer Adam Elk. “It was like getting the guys out of the old age home – let’s get the band back together!”

Full-Length Sample Tracks: “Work”, “Needmore, PA”

As part of the Swedish tour, the band assembled a CD compilation of their best work, to help generate fan interest and build a buzz. Enthusiastic and invigorated upon returning to the US, the band polished up a few tracks and added a few others to the CD. The resulting collection is Finest Specimens, a retrospective of the band’s entire career – from their late 1980s debut Acorn through their entire discography, and beyond.

Out October 19, Finest Specimens contains 21 songs, including previously unreleased live recordings, recently remastered tracks from the Flying Suit and Bingham’s Hole albums, a stunning live version of the classic “Needmore, PA” from their 2010 Swedish tour, and the hauntingly beautiful “When The Sun Breaks” – the band’s first new recording in two years.

The Mommyheads Fall 2010 Dates

• 10.22 Hoboken, NJ — Maxwell’s (CMJ Showcase with Dromedary label mates Stuyvesant, Shirk Circus and Jenifer Convertible)
• 10.30 Newmarket, NH — The Stone Church