Superdrag first gained recognition with their debut album, "Regretfully Yours," which featured the hit single "Sucked Out." Elektra Records upped the dough for a sophomore album, hoping the band would follow up the hit with more radio-friendly singles. Instead, "Head Trip in Every Key" marked a significant departure from their freshman effort. The band continued to deliver their trademark catchy melodies, but this time, they incorporated more diverse musical elements, like psychedelic rock and Beach Boys-esque pop. The album featured various instruments and experimental sounds, showcasing the band's evolving musical maturity. The band's sound became more intricate and layered, reflecting a greater musical complexity in their compositions. Despite these changes, Superdrag's unmistakable energy and John Davis' distinctive vocals remained at the core of their sound, making "Head Trip in Every Key" an important milestone in their musical evolution.
Songs In This Episode
Intro - Do The Vampire
19:32 - I'm Expanding My Mind
30:36 - Pine Away
42:25 - Mr. Underground
Outro - Hellbent
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Highlights
03:04 Steven announces they will be discussing "Head Trip in Every Key" by Superdrag, expressing excitement about the album's 25th anniversary.
06:11 Steven shares his personal history with the album, expressing how it resonated with him when he discovered it in 2002.
09:59 Tim recounts his early experiences with Superdrag's "Regretfully Yours" album, expressing nostalgia about his college years.
11:23 Jay recalls his introduction to Superdrag, expressing that his peak fandom was around the time of "In the Valley of Dying Stars."
12:00 Jay comments on the album's direct approach, appreciating its hard rock edge.
12:36 Jay observes that Superdrag's music doesn't have the typical "woe is me" alternative sound.
21:27 Jay praises the synergy between the guitar riffs and vocals in Superdrag's songs.
22:53 Jay discusses the diverse instrumentation on the album, including sitars, organs, hand claps, and horns.
24:52 Jay and Tim discuss the album's contemporary sound, referencing influences like Big Star, The Beach Boys, The Beatles, and The Zombies.
27:01 Jay and Tim discuss challenges Superdrag faced with their record label, Elektra.
28:03 Jay and Tim discuss the changing landscape of radio in the late '90s.
31:46 Steven shares his appreciation for the album, emphasizing its experimental nature.
33:25 Steven expresses confusion and disappointment over why certain songs, like "Mr. Underground," weren't bigger hits.
34:13 Steven comments on the album's production quality.
34:43 Steven reads a retrospective from John Davis about the Sound City experience.
38:49 Jay and Tim discuss the unique bond fans of Superdrag share.
44:50 Steven elaborates on the lyrical content of the album, noting John Davis's playful jabs at the music industry.
53:58 Steven shares that "Pine Away" is one of Superdrag's oldest songs.
56:02 Jay and Tim discuss the album's broad appeal.
64:43 Steven shares that there might be some new Superdrag music in the works.
67:06 Steven discusses John Davis's love for vinyl and mono recordings.
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