Various Artists: Tiny Idols, Vol. 2

Snowglobe Records’ second attempt to bring back to light some of the lesser-known treasures of the ’90s indie-label pop-rock scene is just as satisfying as the first. That initial volume drew from the first half of the decade; this one pulls from the second half. Both feel like mix-tapes created by music-nerd friends. And once again, there’s a blend of bands I liked back then (Lenola, Suede Chain), bands I was indifferent to, but, after their contribution here, I should reconsider (Mazarin, the Multiple Cat, Sukpatch), and impressive bands I’ve never heard of (LMP, Jula Hoop, and almost all of the others). As the cover painting suggests, there’s a space-rock vibe to much of this music, but not all. Mostly what these bands have in common is talent, a commitment to their own musical visions, and a lack of public recognition. It’s never too late to give a band the attention it deserves, is it?