Swervedriver, Fig Dish, & Nü Metal in the 90s
Catch up in the week in new releases and Dig Me Out podcast
New Podcasts
Fig Dish | Interview
Emerging from the same mid-90s Chicago scene that saw bands like Veruca Salt, Loud Lucy, Menthol, Triple Fast Action, and Local H get signed to major labels, Fig Dish delivered alternative guitar rock that paid homage to the legends of Mt. Rockmore - Zander, Mascis, Mould, and Westerberg - under the Polygram Records (and subsidiaries) banner. Their disc…
Nü Metal in the 90s | Roundtable
Is Nü Metal the most divisive music subgenre of the 1990s? It sure seems to generate a lot of mixed reactions. While some see it as a low point in metal’s storied history, others cherish it as a vital, cathartic outlet that gave voice to a generation of disaffected youth.
New Releases
Steve Wynn - I Wouldn't Say It If It Wasn't True: A Memoir Of Life, Music, And The Dream Syndicate
Steve Wynn, best known as the frontman of The Dream Syndicate, has ventured into the literary world with his memoir I Wouldn’t Say It If It Wasn’t True: A Memoir of Life, Music, and The Dream Syndicate. This book offers an in-depth look into his life, chronicling his experiences as a key figure in the ‘80s Paisley Underground movement and beyond. Wynn’s narrative intertwines personal reflections with the evolution of his musical journey, making it a fascinating read for both fans and newcomers. The memoir is particularly notable for how it was created in tandem with his latest solo album,
Swervedriver - Doremi Faso Latido
Swervedriver, the legendary Oxford rock band known for their unique blend of shoegaze and alternative rock, is back with their latest release, Doremi Faso Latido. But don’t be fooled—this isn’t brand new material but rather a collection of b-sides, demos, and outtakes that date back to the late 1990s, during the band’s
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds - Wild God: This album represents a fresh chapter in Nick Cave’s ongoing evolution. After exploring grief and loss in previous works like Ghosteen, Wild God introduces a sense of renewal and hope. The album brings back the full band dynamic, layering rich instrumentation with collaborations that push their sound into expansive new territories.
Seefeel - Everything Squared EP: Seefeel, the pioneering electronic rock band, returns with Everything Squared, an EP that continues their fusion of post-rock and ambient techno. This release offers a fresh take on their signature style, featuring reworked tracks that combine nostalgia with innovation.
Jónsi - First Light: Jónsi, best known for his ethereal work with Sigur Rós, presents First Light, a solo project that delves deep into ambient and atmospheric territories. The album explores themes of rebirth and transformation, using lush, expansive soundscapes to evoke a sense of wonder and introspection. It’s a deeply immersive experience that resonates with the same emotional intensity as his earlier work .
Laurie Anderson - Amelia: Laurie Anderson, the avant-garde artist and composer, continues her exploration of storytelling through experimental music with Amelia. Blending spoken word with electronic and orchestral elements, this album draws listeners into a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Suburban Eyes - Suburban Eyes: Suburban Eyes is the debut album from this new indie rock band, blending jangly guitars with introspective lyrics that capture the melancholia of suburban life. Their sound, reminiscent of early R.E.M. and The Smiths, is given a modern twist, making it relevant for today’s listeners.
Duster - In Dreams: Duster, the cult-favorite slowcore band, offers In Dreams, an album that stays true to their legacy of creating hauntingly beautiful music. The release features their signature lo-fi sound, with atmospheric guitars and minimalist lyrics that evoke a deep sense of introspection.
Fastbacks - for WHAT reason?: Fastbacks, the Seattle punk-pop legends, return with for WHAT reason?, a high-energy album that captures the spirit of their classic sound while introducing a fresh perspective. Known for their catchy melodies and punchy riffs, this release is a celebration of their legacy, blending nostalgia with invigorating new material .
This new Suburban Eyes is really good. I'm enjoying a first listen and dig this a lot. Thanks for the recommendation, and thanks so much for the inclusion in this post. I appreciate it, man. By the way, have you heard the latest album from Pedro The Lion, Santa Cruz? Just discovered it last night. It's really damn good.