Released in 1999, this savory 26-song offering brings together a diverse array of artists from the U.S. and Great Britain who share a single common thread: their affinity for creating delightfully modern '60s-inspired pop. A two-disc set, the first set of songs are pulled from Earworm singles (1996-1999) that have long since sold out and gone out of print, saving fans from scrounging around Ebay. The second disc is a collection of previously unreleased tracks that, as the liner notes indicate, "had time and money permitted," would have been released as 45s. Whereas many of these rarities collections play like an embarrassing blooper reel, better left undiscovered, Tell Tale Signs plays like a treasured mixtape. While the label that released this pleasing platter, English indie Earworm Records, may not be a familiar imprint to many listeners, the bands it rounded up for this release will certainly ring a bell, especially groups like the Minders, ex-Neutral Milk Hotel members the Gerbils, and the Wee Turtles. Works from somewhat lesser-known outfits like Echoboy, Magnetophone, Southall Riot, and Novak are included as well. ~ Karen E. Graves, All Music Guide