Since announcing their Foo Files archival series back in July, the Foo Fighters have been gifting us with a slew of EPs featuring iconic covers and alternate versions of their own tracks. It seems the Foo’s vault really is a source of never-ending joy as they drop another surprise 4-track EP, titled 01020225, featuring a cover of the Psychedelic Furs’ “Sister Europe” and, most notably, a burning hot rendition of the B-52's “Planet Claire.”
Last month, the Foo’s released 01070725, a five-song EP from the archives that included covers of Arcade Fire’s “Keep the Car Running” and the Dead Kennedys’ “Holiday in Cambodia.” The new EP, 01020225 kicks off with the Foo’s own, “The One,” originally appearing on the soundtrack for 2002 film Orange County, and “Win or Lose,” which appeared on the soundtrack of 2001 film Out Cold.
However, the triumph of this EP comes from its closing track – The B-52's’ “Planet Claire,” recorded live at New York’s Supper Club during a 2002 Halloween show, and previously released on the “Times Like These” single. Pulsing surf guitars and soaring psychedelic lead lines are driven by a relentless rhythm section, building and building into something of a full-fledged alien invasion dance party. The in-imitable frontman of The B-52's, Fred Schneider, lends his vocal to the more heavy-handed, but true rendition of the kitschy, cosmic original.
The B-52's | "Planet Claire"
The band launched their vault series in July with the three-song set, 00950025, which included two rare songs from their 1995 Reading Festival set and “Next Year,” recorded at a 2000 show in Melbourne. They’ve also released 00111125 Live in London, 00070725 Live at Studio 606 and 00050525 Live in Roswell – all in the lead up to the 25th anniversary of their 1995 self-titled debut album which will be marked next year.
Word is, this rather special insight into the history of the Foo Fighters will continue, with the release of more hidden treasure from the Foo Files archival series expected in the coming months. We can't wait to hear what they serve up next! Until then, enjoy 01020225 on Spotify:
Listen to 01020225 on Apple Music:
