Various Artists

The Songs Of Tony Sly: A Tribute

When No Use For A Name frontman Tony Sly suddenly passed away last summer, a generation of skate punks weaned on early Warped Tour lineups and cheapo comps mourned his loss. Thus, this tribute was born, including Rise Against, NOFX and more, with selections ranging from NUFAN’s 1995 classic ¡Leche Con Carne! to more obscure cuts. (More than half of the source material comes from Sly’s two solo albums, which casual fans likely haven’t heard.) Highlights: Strung Out rip through “Soulmate,” Alkaline Trio turn “Straight From The Jacket” into a grunge sea shanty, Dance Hall Crashers’ Karina Denike contributes a haunting a cappella version of “Biggest Lie” and Swingin’ Utters strip down “Not Your Savior” to acoustic guitar and strings for a beautiful reinterpretation. There are a few duds (who let Simple Plan record a reggae cover of “Justified Black Eye,” anyway?) but it’s the thought that counts. We miss you, Tony.

Fat Wreck Chords http://www.fatwreck.com

Strung Out’s “Soulmate”