Secretly Canadian Unveils Essential Compilation of Richard Swift’s Work
The music world is buzzing with the announcement from Secretly Canadian regarding a new compilation dedicated to the late Richard Swift. Titled 4 Hits & a Miss – The Essential Richard Swift, this collection will hit the shelves on November 1, marking a significant tribute to the influential singer-songwriter and producer who passed away over six years ago.
This remarkable album spans his career and boasts 14 tracks, showcasing not only his well-loved classics and experimental pieces but also featuring the never-before-heard track “Common Law.” The compilation aims to encapsulate the legacy of Swift, who was known for his visionary work at the National Freedom studio located in Cottage Grove, Oregon.
Swift, who left us on July 3, 2018, faced a long battle with alcohol addiction, which ultimately led to complications from hepatitis along with liver and kidney distress. Following his passing, numerous artists paid homage to him, including a tribute concert and various remembrance stories shared by friends and collaborators. His last solo project, The Hex, was released shortly after his death in September 2018. Additionally, in 2021, fans were treated to two unreleased comedy tracks, “KFC” and the B-side “A Man’s Man,” published on a posthumous 7-inch single.
The tracklist for 4 Hits & a Miss – The Essential Richard Swift includes:
01 The Original Thought
02 Dirty Jim
03 Would You?
04 The Atlantic Ocean
05 Buildings in America
06 Broken Finger Blues
07 Common Law
08 Lady Luck
09 A Song for Milton Feher
10 The Songs of National Freedom
11 The Novelist
12 Ballad of You Know Who
13 Whitman
14 Walking Without Effort
This collection is sure to resonate with both longtime fans of Swift and those discovering his music for the first time, providing a well-rounded glimpse into the artistry of one of indie rock’s treasured figures.