There is a beach in Long Beach, but it's not tame yet- last time I was there a gull flew by with a cigar in its beak- and if that's what helps keeps the rents cheap and the record stores good and the bars fearless about how many and what kind of amps and pedals the bands drag in, then I'll go sprinkle the sand with (more) cigarettes just to do my part. Things are very good here right now if you like to take pride in hometown shows that send you home late feeling lucky, and this compilation comes in time to find baby bands and big-brother bands at new natural bests- it's a credit to Fidotrust's sense for selection that you can't spot from listening who came up just this year and who was ready and waiting. The radio had some Long Beach songs a little bit ago, but many momentous events since went unreported - like Warren G's sister selling his funk collection to Fingerprints- and so these bands trained and mantained on the secret weeknight rock-show circuit - could be an ambush if you don't get to live here. But if you do live here then you know all these bands from just around the corner (and more who couldn't fit on this record) set up every night that might otherwise be too quiet, and you remember when opportunities weren't so generous, and so you maybe say a thank-you to all those who play here and make good reasons to stay here.

-Chris Ziegler

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LA RECORD:
larecord.com/uncategorized/2008/04/25/album-review-trust-usa-long-beach-comp

When Long Beach’s Alex’s Bar opened, it filled a void left by the closure of the city’s only venues where touring bands could play. The re-establishment of a music scene began to flourish and has culminated with this compilation, the first to deal exclusively with the city’s currently burgeoning music scene. Put together by Long Beach locals, this comp features the hardworking, up-and-coming and best Long Beach bands. Trust Us captures a shared mindset of musicians who live in a place that is equal parts city, college town, suburbia, ghetto and beach oasis. The effects come through song after song ranging from loud and raucous (Tijuana Knife Fight) to dance-y (Slippers) to beautiful (The Year Zero). It’s a time capsule for this definitive time in Long Beach’s music scene. Overall, there are only a few noticeable omissions, but with 23 tracks, from Crystal Antlers to The Valley Arena, you can’t really complain. A compilation like this was way past due, and fortunately when somebody decided to take on the task, it was done right.

— Alex Roman

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PERFECT PORRIDGE
perfectporridge.com/2008/10/03/trust-usa-long-beach-comp/

I got this album from Fidotrust Records called Trust Us…A Long Beach Comp featuring music from 26 Long Beach bands.

I know what you’re thinking — damn hippies.

But you’re wrong. This is a diverse collection and a great showcase of the talent, voice and creativity of LB musicians.

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