The Pessimist’s Companion originally came out in 2019 but never got a proper commercial release due to one thing or another and was hastily mixed and compiled to meet its pre-order deadline. It’s rough, urgent, and entirely in keeping with the subject matter. But the version of the album presented here, still wrapped in stunning artwork by original Replacements’ drummer Chris Mars, features a brand-new mix, a different running order and five extra songs recorded for the session but not finished in time. Now you can enjoy the re-conceived and refreshed version as it was originally meant to be, more closely aligned with Ginger’s vision for the album.

Says Ginger: “The Pessimist’s Companion is a break-up album, which follows on from the confessional Ghost In The Tanglewood. It was written largely in a caravan, where me and Maggie, my faithful furry companion, lived and documented the emotional minefield of a relationship breakdown and the search for the strength to ‘start again’ in life. As with Ghost In The Tanglewood, this is a fearlessly honest collection of songs, thoughts and feelings. I have used the same musicians this time around too. I feel that they performed so admirably on the last album and created a perfect bed from which to showcase the lyrics and melodies. And the album is, once again, produced by Dave Draper who did such a great job with the sound of the last album. I hope you find some comfort, some joy and a sense of sharing with this selection of songs. Sharing troubles with you in song is my therapy. Thank you for being there.”

Ginger Wildheart is best known as the founding member and leader of The Wildhearts. He is also a champion for mental health awareness and released the benefit single “F*ck You Brain” in 2016 with Wicked Cool Records label mate Ryan Hamilton prior to either of them joining Stevie Van Zandt’s label, with all proceeds going to The Samaritans.

As a longtime Wildhearts fan myself, if this is your first exposure to Ginger’s songwriting I’m both excited for you and even a little jealous. Jealous that you now get to go back through 20 years of his work and discover some amazing songs and records for the first time. Start with 2021’s 21^st Century Love Songs and head back in time from there!