Reviews (page 2 of 7)
Woooahhhh!!Where the fuck did this come from!! Country meets the Pixies and somehow Fuzzy mighy better than both. Phillips vocals are fantastic, as are his songwriting styles. Fuzzy is tight, yet expansive. The overdriven acoustic guitar gives it a very unique amazing sound. This is a spectacular album 9.2/10
Deserves more listening. Not sure what mood I need to be in though.
I really liked this. Note to self: listen again!
10/10 I don’t know, I feel like I shouldn’t love this as much as I do, but there’s just something about it it’s so good and I don’t know why
Haunting. Warm. Cerebral bass coating the cries of the lead guitar and vocal. Huge energy at the end. Frisson inducing. 10/10 title track.
No nyt kyllä oli kova levy taas. Akustisvetoista, mutta tymäkkää rockia. Tulee vähän Jeff Buckley ja ajoittain Radioheadikin mieleen. Paehaat: Jupiter and Teardrop, The Hook, Grace
Otroligt bra. Starten på albumet, dom första tre är sinnessjukt bra. Det är väl egentligen bara Dixie drug store som inte håller måttet.
Best find yet. Folky/Americana with a heavy grunge influence. So tight
4.7 - I loved this album. I have listened to them a fair bit but not sat down to the whole album. Maybe I just love melancholic music, dunno
Going in to this one blind. The Shining Hour is a good start, this feels in my wheelhouse. I enjoyed Jupiter and Teardrop also. Fuzzy is the starred track on the album, but the slower tempo is doing less for me. The thing this reminds me most of is the inimitable Jeff Buckley (and of course this album predates Grace). Wish You Well chorus is nice. Ha - I just noticed there is a song called Grace on this album too. Soft Wolf Tread probably the least interesting track so far, but I like Stars N' Stripes for sure. MURICA. You Just Have To Be Crazy is fine, but does not really feel to me like the album going out with a bang. I'm leaning towards a 5 here. Whilst the highs are perhaps not as high as I might want in a 5 star album the floor is extremely high. This feels like a very consistent album that I could come back to fully, and I expect get even more out of, so I am going to be optimistic. Fave Tracks: The Shining Hour, Wish You Well, The Hook, Stars N Stripes 4.5/5
Fantastic album, don't have much to add besides that. I loved it. Fuzzy and Wish You Well are real standouts.
Had me hooked from the first song, the vibes of "The Shining Hour" were exactly what I needed today. Mr. Buffalo knew what he was doing with these. I absolutely loved this album. Some songs are so danceable, some are just fantastic to sit and listen to. My favourite was "Dixie Drug Store" (love an aul storyline).
Fucking great!!! Will listen to again
Great!
cool
Me ha encantado. No lo concía. Un 5. Es como indie rock.
I love this album. I still think I generally prefer Mighty Joe Moon, but they're both 5/5 for me.
Really good alt rock, every song was good
I liked this album! I'd never heard of Grant Lee Buffalo before. They sound like a mix of older Neil Young with a little Robbie Robertson in there.
I had forgotten how much I adore this album
I very much enjoyed this album which was a new discovery for me. 4.5/5
Brilliant and really interesting to hear what was going on in the US at a time I was getting into music from the UK. An influence on loads of bands I love you, without actually sounding like any of them. A new favourite for me, and exactly the reason I started this project!
A masterpiece - almost every song is haunting but the title track alone is a juggernaut. I had forgotten this album, and it seems to me even the rest of the world but it is probably objectively one of the best of the 90s decade.
only vaguely had heard of the band. loved the album, right up my alley
It took me a bit to warm up, but warm up I did! This was new music and a new band to me (although I realized I'd seen Grant-Lee Phillips as the troubadour on "Gilmore Girls"). I really liked the acoustic alternative sound. I'd be happy to listen to more!
Good enough to buy after one listen.
Good music. Kind of folk rock.
What you get when you order Bruce Springsteen from a 1910 Sears Catalog.
Grande Trovador! Album maravilhoso! Amei demais! Melhores músicas: Jupiter and Teardrop, Fuzzy e The Hook
Jupiter and Teardrop is one of the best songs ever. This is such a gem of an album.
One of the greatest albums ever recorded. Sublime.
Love almost the entire album! Really clear sound, all of the elements of the music fit perfectly, original topics for the lyrics (at least in many of the songs).
I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
Very good 90s alt-rock, a pleasant surprise.
- distinctive strong sound. kinda sad this is the first time I've come across it. - Like a mature Killers - So glad to have this suggested.
YIL about emo-country. Loved it!
Fantastic album
Magnifico
Me ha encantado. No lo concía. Un 5. Es como indie rock.
Awesome probably best album so far
What a gem. So glad I now know about this guy
They got loads of good press and some heavy-hitting endorsements (especially from REM) but somehow they never quite cut through with the record-buying public. Not sure why. Phillips has a lovely voice - he can go full Bono, like on Grace, but is mostly warmly emotional and the best songs bring that out, as on the beautiful title track and Stars n Stripes, which may be even better. A handycam was a nice thing to have back then.
Never heard of these before, but enjoyed this. Pretty solid rock album, and might get a couple of extra plays. Decent.
Alt country? Folk rock? I dig it. Another one of those where I've heard the name of the band but didn't really know what they sounded like.
I liked this album once it got going.
*1993. *Wow, never heard of these guys, but this is right up my alley. *Sounds like U2, REM, Better Than Ezra. *Things got a little off the rails in the last few songs, but otherwise this was really solid. Listened to it all day whenever I had some free time. RATING - 8/10
I should've listened to this earlier. Very enjoyable album that I've slept on for too long. 4.5/5
This album came out during the time in my life when I was the most ravenous for music, and I had never heard of this band before now. So that's a treat. "Vintage Old Stock." *Fuzzy* turned out to be a real hidden gem for me. Reminds me a bit of The La's, only I found the songs here to be more mature and interesting. There is something oddly English about this band....they seem to be drawing from Bowie and the Velvet Underground quite a bit, particularly on songs like "Grace." There was something about the vocalist here that sounded familiar but I couldn't quite place, and then it hit me in the middle of "The Hook" - he's a dead ringer for Michael Hutchence of INXS. I actually like this guy's voice and style better.... Anyways. I was genuinely surprised by this record and GLB in general. Another album I'd love to return to soon. FOUR STARS
This album is swampy, buzzing and whiskey-hot. Phillips' vocals sound like a cross-breed of Neil Diamond, Mark Chadwick from The Levellers, and Elton John, all passed through a grittier, rawer filter. I see that this album sits strongly at 3.02/5 on this site, and I think that's all together too low - maybe I'm just a fan of this sort of music, I am an established country fan, but this sort of country-fusion is right up my alley, joining the likes of Ethel Cain and The Men They Couldn’t Hang. I can understand why this album was included on this list, but I can also understand that this isn't everybody's thing, and therefore why this sits squarely average in peoples rankings. This, however, is absolutely my sort of music, and would go perfectly if I'm wanting to sit and brood, or imagine myself as a tortured traveller of the American Plains.
Jeff Buckley vibes. I dug it a lot
They're right this sounds Fuzzy. Love how this sounds. Good performances all round and sonically very full. Very good head nodder. Dips a little in the middle but not enough to be a problem. Nice to be introduced to a new band who discography I wanna listen to now. Good job list. Best tracks: The Shining Hour Fuzzy America Snoring
I have heard Grant Lee Buffalo before, but I never really was grabbed by any of the music previously - other than the one song they wrote for the Velvet Goldmine soundtrack. Maybe its knowing that song exists ("The Whole Shebang"), but I think the fact they were able to make such a great glam rock song there is because they had some glam from the beginning, and what I hear in this album is something similar to Red House Painters but with a little glam and some hooks (pun intended) in it. I definitely like it, though it still didn't completely blow me away or feel like something I feel everyone needs to really like or get into.
Best Track - "Fuzzy"
What is this? Piano/acoustic soft rock, not bluesy though, more of a new wave/indie songwriting structure and feel. It also gets folksy in places like Wish You Well I quite like it. Jupiter and Teardrop has subtle grungey feel, like Pearl Jam in places. Stars N Stripes is an interesting track, atmospheric, little bit tense, extra instrumentation Really hard to choose a best track from the 3. Sign of a good album! Best track - The Shining Hour, Wish You Well, Stars N Stripes 3 or 4 stars? Just enough to pique my interest enough for a 4. Not like much else I've heard and solid song writing
I heard about this album for the first time today and initially thought it was a solo effort. That's not actually the case. Although the vocalist later adopted the pseudonym Grant-Lee, Grant Lee Buffalo is the band's name, and the name is interesting in that it captures the essence of their music. Ulysses S. Grant and Robert E. Lee were American generals on opposing sides during the Civil War, and buffalo is, of course, a local breed of bull. So, right from the start, everything hints at the music being imbued with the spirit of America. It's hard to explain, but it's true: the crisp acoustic twelve-string evokes classic country, yet everything sounds harsh, very close to the grunge that was fashionable at the time. The result is a very eclectic mix of Americana, blues, folk, and alternative rock, sometimes with a slightly eerie edge. A highly underrated record that simply came out at the wrong time.
4/5 Best Song: Jupiter and Teardrop Worst Song: Soft Wolf Tread Weirdest Song: Stars n' Stripes Honorable Mention: The Hook This one came out of nowhere. Can't believe I've never heard of this band. Great mixture of country and alt rock. The lead singer's voice and 12-string are massive.
A strange album, it reminds me of a lot of different things but at the same time still feels fresh and unique
This I never heard of and is way better than I expected it to be. Color me impressed! I really enjoyed this album.
This was a refreshingly new album for me. I have one of Grant Lee Phillips solo CDs from a long time ago. Overall a really strong 4 star album
classic album from back in the day a lot of great tunes
Favorite Track: Jupiter and Teardrop
Cool, heavy folk vibes. I feel like Dax Riggs loves this.
Kyl tää resonoi, vaikkei tätä nyt oo mahottomasti tullut aiemmin kuunneltua. Tarpeeks hyvii biisei ja vaikka onkin ysärialtsua, niin riittävän omaperästä, että jaksaa innostaa. Sanovat tätä myös pre-emoks, joten sen voi sit laskee plussaks tai miinukseks, mutta ite en oo tarpeeks skenettäjä, että kuulisin, mutta Oasiksen Noel ainakin sanoi, että tää on häneen tehnyt vaikutusta.
Never heard of this before. Really liked it, like something you hear on a Sunday evening at a festival.
4/7
alt-country and americana, didn't expect this to go so hard wtf
From the first note, these guys feel like an early 90s Pixies knockoff. In the world after the Gaye family sued Robin Thicke and Pharrell for the vibe of Blurred Lines, Jupiter and Teardrop would have gotten these guys sued by David Bowie for the similarity of Jupiter and Teardrop to Moonage Daydream. I like this album in a very non-descript way. It's very "90s indie rock". There's an INXS/Achtung Baby feeling to some of this, particularly Dixie Drug Store. They are definitely pro-choice.
I liked it, but it goes on too long... And it is not long... Still, I liked the overall vibe and the sound, which is surprising since I usually hate Country, so that's a bonus.
I wasn't interested until I found out Sarah Record was the producer.
I want to punish my own insolence, but the only way I know how in this context is to roundup my score. I saw this album cover and title and thought “this is gonna stink.” And then it didn’t! It wasn’t all killer, but it was a good time and there’s more than one song I’ll go back to some day.
I've never heard of this guy before, I especially loved the song Stars N' Stripes. Cute stuff!
I'm shocked I have never heard of this band before, they are very solid.
I enjoyed this album. Good vocals, and great in the background while I'm doing things. Rating: 8/10 Favorite Song: Fuzzy
A great and nuanced take of alt country and grunge mixed together
The title track is the standout but I really enjoyed this album.
surprised this wasn't cowboy slop. doesn't every word in the band name imply cowboy slop?
Solid 90s album. Standout songs: Jupiter and Teardrop Stars and Stripes Grace
Had a good time with this one. It felt like there were a few genre shifts but they blended together very well.
Michael Stipe said this was the best album of 1993, so I trusted him with this. Two listens later, I think In Utero does top it but it is pretty damn good. Grant Lee Phillips takes over with his vocals adding on to the acoustic melancholic feel. These tracks have strength in their hooks and bite in the words being sung. It's refreshing. It doesn't sound like another alternative album on this list, it's gothic country. It's a big furry coat bought at an outdoor shop in the winter. Oh and, it's fuzzy you could say. Good stuff, thanks Mike (8/10, 4/5 on this scale)
Didn’t know him, but i liked this album! I heard it while traveling
Dit album zit heerlijk op de sweet spot tussen de 80s en 90s sound. Beste ontdekking van afgelopen week!
Det her var ret klasse. Har aldrig hørt om Grant Lee Buffalo før, men det er et navn jeg godt kunne finde på at dykke mere ned i. 3.8 nysgerrige stjerner ****
How did I never know about this guy? Great album. I ordered it on vinyl even before I finished listening to it. Excellent!! Highlights: Jupiter and Teardrops, Fuzzy, The Hook and You Just Have To Be Crazy 4.7
I don't know why this album always pops on my spotify but I was please to have it on this list. It's a good one, that flows very easily with catchy songs
Why wasnt it more lauded? It's emotional and just hit that mmsmm
Erfrischender akustischer Alternative Rock.
It's a solid album. No real bad songs on it but just misses something. Fuzzy is a great song
Not listened to them before. Quite like it, though I am currently less in the mood for this style. Some vibes of Echo and the Bunnymen/Waterboys
From the first note, these guys feel like an early 90s Pixies knockoff. In the world after the Gaye family sued Robin Thicke and Pharrell for the vibe of Blurred Lines, Jupiter and Teardrop would have gotten these guys sued by David Bowie for the similarity of Jupiter and Teardrop to Moonage Daydream. I like this album in a very non-descript way. It's very "90s indie rock". There's an INXS/Achtung Baby feeling to some of this, particularly Dixie Drug Store. They are definitely pro-choice.
thought this was awesome, actually. never heard of them before.
Liked this a lot more than expected.
I really enjoyed this album! It had a sound that reminded me a bit of the Pixies, but with more of a country or folk undertone. I liked the vocals too, I think I will be returning to this one.
nog wel bangy bangy
4.5
Re listen
This album was a bit Fuzzy. Though it did have Grace.
I really liked this. Sue me!
Listened to this a lot in the '90s, always shocked he didn't blow up. Love the passion and story telling in these songs. It feels desperate and beautiful, the vocal style is haunting at times and full of emotion. It is a great 90's angsty alt rock album. It is pretty wild that I haven't listened to this in a while but every time I put it on I remember why I loved it so back in the day.
What a great find. Love this writer / band. Sorta reminds me of Jeff Buckly
This caught me by surprise as a genuinely enjoyable album. I fully expected a boring slog of a country album based on the name & album cover alone, but that's not what I got. Really strong opening section of tracks, the genre feels hard to define but the tone and instrumentals are interesting & well delivered. 8/10.
South London early 90’s, my friend has this on cassette. It quietly burbles away in the background as we talk nonsense. 30 years later listening to it again I understand why we listened to it. Soulful, melancholic. A mixture of country rock, 80’s British Indie and 70’s Bowie. A soundtrack for drinking and regret in a good way
Enjoyable. Played twice straight up.
3.5/5
I really loved this. 4.5!!
I was pleasantly surprised with the first track of this album, The Shining Hour. It had some beautiful instrumentals, but I also loved the vocals and how it carried throughout. It tones down the pace with the next track, Jupiter and Teardrop, but keeps the intensity. Those guitar hits going into the chorus really work for me. The title track was something I could see myself sleeping to, and that is a compliment. It’s so melodic and has such a calming vibe to it. Wish you Well pushed and pulled with the intensity, and I really appreciated that. The lyrics in this track are also great! I love how The Hook continues with the vibes in the album I’ve loved so far. I love how the guitar is used. I liked how Soft Wolf Tread sped it up again. This track also punctuated itself via silence in some places which I also thought was really cool. Stars n stripes had some weird moments, but it was fine overall. I didn’t like Dixie Drug Store. It was just not up to the standards of the beginning of this album and was one of the only tracks I actively disliked. Nothing rlly to say about America Snoring, it had its moments. I feel like this album has slowly disintegrated in quality as it’s played. Grace wasn’t my favourite and while a step up, the closer, You Just Have to Be Crazy, didn’t really do it for me. I think it would’ve if I was still earlier in the album, but not as a closer. 4/5 ⭐️. The first half was so good. 52/1089
I rather enjoyed, and was pleasantly surprised by this. It's an accessible take on moody, atmospheric alt-rock fused with elements of country and folk, where the latter two don't encroach too heavily into the experience; positively accentuating the songs which generally place a greater emphasis towards the vocals. The album began to feel more expansive in the second half, and specifically from "Stars n' Stripes" onwards, where the back end of such a track felt like it had a greater amount of room to breathe, and where the instrumentation took the reins with a slight sleaze and drifting style to it. The first half, whilst good, occupied a similar space from to track, although not in an unengaging way. Grant Lee Buffalo, in a vocal sense, has a slight grunge/alt twang to him which brought several other 90s contemporaries to mind - a bit of a softer voice than the likes of Layne Staley, but operating in a comparable ballpark with the emotive quality to his vocals. Michael Stipe or Neil Young might be closer points of reference. I can imagine this album pairing well with a beer over a summer sunset. I might actually make a purchase and explore further.
Great songs, production and playing. Just not too keen on his voice.
Moody 90s alt rock withbjints of Morissey
- Havde aldrig hørt om ham før, mega positivt overrasket - Gode sange alle sammen
Al inicio me estaba pareciendo una absoluta genialidad. Ya después se pone un poco más normal. Nunca deja de ser bueno, creo que no había escuchado nada de gothic country pero tiene mucha onda. Sí escucharía más de Grant Lee Buffalo.
LOWK HELL YEAH I FUCK WITH IT
That was nice
Interesting voice and some rockin tunes... good songwriting. More like a 3.5
This album screams 90s but in the best possible way.
Influenced by the Doors with a country element in some of the songs. Works for me.
Fuzzy
Really nice sound. I preferred the first half of the album, but the whole thing wasn't bad. A great find.
Great Indy/Rock album. Song I like: Fuzzy, The hook, You Just Have to be Crazy
прва песма је предобра втф. и друга песма је бенгер???? све песме до сада су добре ајм шук. okej sad smo stigli do dve pretposlednje pesme koje su america centered and i dont really care for that but okay. outro za grace je crazyyyyyyy. nisam znala sta da ocekujem. ali nisam ovo ocekivala? mislim, nisam ocekivala da mi se ovoliko svidi album, nisam ni sigurna zasto jer nije kao da su napravili ista revolucionarno (no shade), ali stvarno sam toliko uzivala da to prosto moram da naglasim jos jedanput hahaha. melodije mi se svidjaju, ovaj covek lepo peva, svidjaju mi se rifovi i soloi na gitari, svidjaju mi se bubnjevi i svi instrumenti; ima ponekad malo klavira, its just so fun! ovo je kao neki rok pomesan sa npr folkom, ne znam, ali podseca me malo na arctic monkeys sto zvuci neobicno ali nekako slicnu intonaciju imaju vokali oba benda?! mnogo su tihe pesme iz nekog razloga, legit sam pojacala na 100 zvuk na slusalicama samo da bi normalno zvucalo, ali sem toga stvarno nemam nekih kritika. mozda eto ove pesme sto su malo vise amerika, o americi, nekako ne rezonuju samnom ali nema veze, nema ih puno. neironicno kad se zavrsio album pustila sam ga ponovo da bih cula prve tri pesme opet, to nisam nikad uradila sa ovim albumima do sad!
Beautiful mostly acoustic album. I knew the title track from radio play back in the 90s, but had never dived into the whole album. It’s all pretty similar, but presents a dreamy melancholy that’s just right for late nights
Some cracking songs. Unexpected
actually slapped
Excellent find. Jangly and, as the title implies, fuzzy.
Robert plant voice, Grace type song composition, Van Halen style guitar solos
Hadn't heard of the band before so I wasn't sure what to expect going into the album, but was honestly pleasantly surprised. Not quite anything groundbreaking, but really solid all the way through with some really standout tracks. A really compelling blend of 90s grunge with melodic, almost dreamy components. Feels like it could have easily been a classic album had it gotten more attention. Highlights: Fuzzy, Wish You Well, The Shining Hour
'I propose a toast / To the memory of the horse who carried King Tut and his gold'; 'And she nicknamed him her teardrop / For the tattoo by his eye.' What's so functional and perfected about this record is its Americanness, the way the band manages such a gorgeous tribute to this country's self-defining features. And it's American in a way that Woody Guthrie or Bruce Springsteen aren't: this is pure symbolism, pure imagery, and pure history. That would have its limitations if it weren't for Phillips powerful singing, his heavy guitar-playing (matched by Joey Peters's percussive instincts), and his uniquely poised lyricism. Underlying the project is a flimsy obscurity & a lack of direction, but for the most part, this succeeds concretely, wholly.
Mega fedt alternativ rock som blander americana og folk rock, men det er med den mørke lyd af grunge og også lidt hårdere og mere rå guitarer. Det er virkelig fedt, så at REM kaldte det årets album uden tvivl pga guitarspillet osv. Tror de er med fordi det var i en tid hvor en anden lyd var populært om det var grungen, eller noget mere ironisk lyd osv så gjorde de noget andet hvor det var noget seriøst folk-rock med mørke toner. Synes fandme ikke der er mange sange som jeg ikke kan lide på dette album. Albumcovered var ved at skræmme mig væk, men jeg kan bedre forstå det nu med de gule lidt mørkere toner. Han har åbenbart barytonstemme som jeg ikke forstår helt hvad er, for jeg troede det var ligesom alex turner men jeg kan kun se alle mulige andre kunstnere. Det må jeg lige finde ud af. Tror godt jeg kan lide at det blander folk og så distorted og feedback på guitare, det har jeg ikke rigtig hørt på samme måde. Så jeg føler lidt jeg har lyttet til noget nyt i dag.
Don't even have to look at the release date to know this is from the '90s. It's good '90s though.
Nice 90s piece of alternative, I like the first half more than the second half
Thoroughly enjoyed this. Listened to it several times.
Really good actually
Before starting the album, I didn't know I was going to like it that much. I'm not particularly fan of rock music, but I was surprised by its alternative and country edge, which sets it apart from the rock music I'd heard before. The most interesting aspect of the album is the string arrangement, although it also has some very special vocal and melodic moments, such as in the title track. The weakest part of the album is the lyrics, but overall it's a good album. Fave tracks: Jupiter and Teardrop, Fuzzy, Wish You Well, The Hook, You Just Have to Be Crazy.
This is a bit of a ride. Very varied, keeps it interesting throughout. The guitar playing is good, the vocals compliment it well. Liking the Folk influences in this. My favorite tracks are probably Dixie Drug Store and Jupiter and Teardrop.
Makes me want to sit in an American roadside cafe drinking a coffee while I listen. More of a mood album than one I'd continually revisit, but solid nevertheless.
Starke Präsenz in jedem Song.
Noch nie gehört, hat mich richtig abgeholt. Stellenweise war es für mich ganz kurz davor, cheesy zu werden, hat die Schwelle aber nie überschritten. Die Stimme und die melancholische Stimmung waren genau mein Ding.
Better than I expected
Die Band um Sänger verbindet Americana, Folk-Rock und Alternative zu einem atmosphärisch dichten Sound. Besonders hervorzuheben ist der Titeltrack „Fuzzy“, der mit seinem melancholischen Ton und der markanten Stimme überzeugt.
Overall: 7/10 I really hate that album cover so I went into this with pretty low expectations. I really need to stop judging a book by it's cover! There's a country flavour to this that I expected but it's really more of an alt-rock type of album. The vocals are decent enough and I really like the lyrics. I might need to revisit this again but for now I really enjoyed it! Fav Song: The Hook
Jupiter and Teardrop sounds like David Bowie
Dixie drug store is good fun. It’s contemplative and smoky is how I’d describe it. The bass guitar is a weapon in this album. I also love his voice and cadence
Decent.
Was not bad! Gentle and a nice listen
Jupiter and Teardrop is a real gem on this record. I hadn't been too familiar with Grant Lee Buffalo before having to listen to this here, but glad I did!
I had no expectations here. The opening track was pleasantly surprising. It wasn't bad at all. It reminds me of a lot of things, but can't place it. Bowie? Lou Reed? Placebo? Put 70s and 90s mellow moody rock in a blender and get this. I kinda like it. Saving this one for the car. I want to hear it again.
Good record, Homespun from their third album was one of the first singles I ever bought. That is still my personal favourite GLB song to this day.
New running for "Most unexpected album I'd like" in this exercise just dropped
Det her har æ hørt før, tror æ nok, sjøl om æ aldri hørte på Grant Lee Buffalo sjøl, men det vekke så mange minner, så æ tror det må ha vært bakgrunnslyd på fest eller nachspiel eller nokka sånt. Det e veldig innafor mine sjangre, men likevel ikke nokka æ føle et behov for å dykke dypere i.
I didn't know anything about this album, and Wikipedia classifies it as Alternative/Gothic Country which made me doubtful. But it's actually pretty good stuff
4/5. I saw that Michael Stipe said this was the best album of that year and that makes sense since this is an R.E.M. album that he never wrote. Granted, the lyrics are more in line with the Smiths but not annoying. The production is quality, I can understand every word he says and there is a lot of emotion here in his vocals without pushing past pretentiousness. It's a pretty great record. I don't know if it's perfect but I find it hard to find flaws here, it was just a solid 90's record without doing anything new but still enhancing the established sound further. Best Song: Jupiter and Teardrop, Dixie Drug Store, America Snoring
judging by the name i expected it to be country and i dislike country music. but it turned out to be melancholic music with inventive songwriting and unusual lyrics. wikipedia says this genre is called alt country / gothic country and it seems i finally found the country i like
Definetly one of the more interesting alternative rock efforts of the widespread of those albums in the early nineties.Grant Lee Buffalo's debut is dreamy yet raw, heavy yet soft. The title track 'Fuzzy' is one to keep in the history books of rock for one of the greatest usages of distortion
Thought I remembered this one being really boring, but as it often turns out, Michael Stipe is right and I am wrong. Actually, it's pretty good alt-country!
This was an unexpected delight Knew nothing about it but it’s got some great songs on it Nothing revolutionary but nothing that’s not really well done
Love the title track
I had a good time with this one! The music is pretty typical 90’s Americana, and the lyrics were just fine. I enjoyed the more political songs, you could’ve told me they were written yesterday and I would’ve believed you. My favorite song might be the one where he fucks a ghost.
Listened September 2023. Eerie, melodic, chugging alt rock. I'm a sucker for this genre and specific time period so I love it, but I don't know if I would have included it in 1000 albums to hear before you die.
Enjoy this album every time. Then I forget it exists for like a year
I like it though it I wasn't focusing hard on it at first
Całkiem przyjmne. Nie za długie też. Takie 4/5
After more years than I care to think about, I've got round to listening to this again. Its better than I remember. There is a tinge of folky roots rock to it but just enough edge to keep me interested.
Who knows where one finds their influences or the one thing that fits their whole vibe. With Grant Lee Buffalo, once one comes to the conclusions or revelations, it becomes easier to understand. Fuzzy was 1993's alternative country rock trip towards the zeitgeist, infused with poignant musings and a general grasp on subjects that piqued the fancies of the band. Upon first listen, it is no wonder why it became a favorite of the singer of one of the biggest bands of the era, for it is an enduring piece of work. Favorites: The Shining Hour, Jupiter and Teardrop, Fuzzy, Wish You Well, Dixie Drug Store, America Snoring.
This album is really growing on me the more I listen to it. The title song, Fuzzy, is really catchy - slow-paced but feels weirdly like it could fit into modern alt/ indie. The Shining Hour and Soft Wolf Tread are a couple more I keep returning to. The Hook was eh. A bit whiny and repetitive. (Even when the lyrics aren’t great the instruments do carry though)
good 👍
Going in, I saw the cover and read a few mentions of “alt-country,” and thought I was going to hate this. Turns out it’s far from country and much more 90s singer-songwriter rock. I actually enjoyed the whole album, no bad songs here. It’s got that gritty 90s tone, while still feeling unique. I’m not entirely sure how I feel about it overall, but I’ll definitely give it a few more spins.
Many of the reviews for this album are way too harsh. This album is actually pretty good. The songwriting is very good, the “stars and stripes and swastikas” line really surprised me, it reminded me that many of the problems people have today have been around for decades. The album does sound pretty 90s in a few places, but sounding of its time isn’t always a bad thing. 4/5
Loved the hell out of this album when it came out. It's not something I have ventured back to often. It was some present for a few turbulent years of my 20s...so to sur down and listen to this album. What a treat. It crackles. It captures a moment. It inspired me to revisit the whole catalog. A lost still sounds great. Of the era but bringing some unique talents to the game. Amplified folk tunes broadcasting live from LA. The more things change...
Great
Eich no recht geil, het es paar frächi druff. Isch aber eher es Album wie Hits. Es paar sind denn doch chli fest Country. Glaub würi widee lose. 4/5
I liked this, great lyrics that still resonate today.
This is my first time hearing this group and really like them.
Cool
Rating: 8.5/10 A country/folk albums with incredibly strong vocal melodies and delivery, and catchy instrumentation that propels the music forward. A pleasant surprise.
i fwww this. love the blend of acoustic and rock elements. like his voice. obsessedddd with the title track.
standard 90s rock
I enjoyed the whole thing. Not sure it has a unique enough identity to warrant five stars but I still liked all of the songs. Rating: 4.4
Excellent.
dang, this is pretty good
Liked it when it came out
A welcome surprise
I dig this, it's a unique sound which is a treat on this list, and it maintains its consistent quality throughout the duration of the album.
I can’t say for sure that they turned me into a fan. But I definitely liked this album more at the end than I did at the beginning. The vocals ran the gamut from beautiful to emotionally overwrought to sincerely powerful, at times evoking thoughts of an “American Bono.” I’m quite tempted to give this album a second listen.
Haunting, alt rock, lil bit country and a whole lotta fun
Very cool live album. Great vocals and very spacial sound. Can’t believe I hadn’t heard of this artist before. Would definitely put this album on in TG’s shed.
7/10
I like it! Not quite sure how to describe it, its just really good. I think the songs are just really impressive, both narratively and instrumentally. The guitars and solos are really good. I feel like he kind of sounds like the singer from the pet shop boys in some places, but its obviously totally different. Some songs feel a bit nothing. Favourite songs: pretty much all Overall around 7/10
Good sound. Good lyrics.
The Hook, Teardrop and Jupiter, and Fuzzy are incredible
Not familiar with this album although do I remember the single 'fuzzy'. Quite an enjoyable listen.
Never heard of this band. Would listen again
MORE alternative country? Really? I'm starting to notice a bit of repetition here. I mean, I'd rather have albums like this than mainstream country, but is Grant Lee Buffalo really more noteworthy than some other 90s country act like Garth Brooks? I don't think so. But are they better? I don't know, because I haven't really dived deep into either artist. What I do know is that Fuzzy is a solid album. I like a number of things here. Admittedly, this album isn't very interesting. There's not really anything I can think of that's done here that hasn't been done before by other artists on this list. But there's also nothing done here that I really dislike. The singing's alright. Is it just me, or does Grant Lee Phillips kind of sound like Bono at some points on this album? The instrumentation is pretty good. It's a little repetitive, but not very. The writing is good overall, but has some standout moments. I think the standout for me in terms of writing is "America Snoring" which has a message that hasn't aged a day in the 32 years since this song's release. From mentions of the national guard to policing of wombs, the theming here is scarily reminiscent of the ongoing heinous actions of the Trump administration. Shit's scary, y'all. The song's good though. This album's not a masterpiece or anything and I probably wouldn't include it on my 1001 albums list, but I enjoy it for what it is. While I question how Michael Stipe thought this was the best album of 1993 due to the existence of better albums like In Utero, I can definitely see the appeal of this one on its own. Low 4/5.
Pretty groovy. A lot more energy and muscle behind it then I expected. A good album.
Need to listen to more
Purposefully plodding(I mean that in the best way possible) and full sounding trio. Can't hardly help but start slowly nodding and tapping your foot while listening.
Really enjoyed this, beautiful voice
A corker of an album this. Completely unheard of beforehand, but really enjoyed it. Had something of a Frank Black solo album about it. Was fascinating to read about the band’s history and got the sense they never quite made it to the heights of some of their contemporaries. This debut is a haunting collection of dusty Americana alt-rock and really landed with me - I’ll be giving the rest of their albums a listen after this.
7/10 some enjoyable tracks, nothing too remarkable;
I quite liked it to be honest - didn't know Grant Lee Buffalo before this but it was a fairly pleasant surprise. Perhaps not the most entertaining experience but still good quality mood music
AAnother new-to-me album that really delivers. Well produced indie singer-songwriter fare with some great songs. The style of songwriting and production/arrangements really speak to me. The first 5 songs are uniformly excellent which makes for a somewhat front-loaded listening but there are still plenty of gems towards the end that left me wanting more. 4 stars
Un grupo estupendo, de culto, a caballo entre el grunge y la americana, con una calidad excepcional. ¿Al nivel de Jayhwaks o The Afghan Whigs? Eso es mucho decir, pero fueron grandes , mucho. Abrieron una puerta que tiraron abajo Wilco, Calexico, Giant Sand, Lambchop y otros muchos. Ya con The shining hour dejan claros los parámetros: voz personal, letras comprometidas, buenas guitarras y sobre todo buenas melodías. Referentes clásicos como Neil Young, que esos años apadrinaba el grunge, e incluso el Dylan eléctrico con The Band. En todo caso, un puente entre los 70 y los 90. Fuzzy presenta una guitarra y voces que realmente la hacen especial. Grace es una odisea eléctrica con una batería sensacional, como el resto del álbum. No incluye sus dos temas más populares: Mockingbirds del posterior Mighty Joe Moon, ni Trulu Truli del último Jubilee .
I listened to it a bunch so I must have liked it a bit
Despite what this list leads you to believe, there is 90s music outside of Britton. This album is refreshing stylistically, but not something I’ll be back to.
Solid album with some good tracks. I liked the voice and the sound. Probably a little generous but will put this on the 4 side of a 3.5.
Like Håkan Hellström but better.
Una onda medio rock country. No es algo que vaya a estar escuchando mucho creo pero muy buenos temas, la verdad el album me sorprendió. Muy pegadizos y como potentes. Mis favoritos creo q son jupiter and teardrop, wish you well, stars n stripes y dixie drug store. Maybe 7
Never heard it before but surprisingly very good album. Will most likely revisit some songs
When you're 900 albums in and on the homestretch of the 1001 list, you can become a bit indifferent, haven't we heard it all already? I vaguely recall hearing of Grant Lee Buffalo, but had no idea of their music. Took me a bit by surprise, I quite liked it. Good songwriting and performance, gets a bit too somber in places, but a decent Sunday morning listen.
I've been stuck on this album forever trying to decide if I actually like it or if I think it's lame. I've finally decided I like it. It's not the most memorable album, but it's solid. 4/5 Highlights: Fuzzy The Hook America Snoring Grace
not a bad album, but not anything that blew me away. often times the vocalist here sounds like robert plant, which is a compliment. in terms of the time period it was released, i think there are more novel and more interesting albums.
Grant-Lee Phillips has a great voice, the compositions and recording are perfectly complementary for the mystery and depth of the songs. Poetic, but unpretentious (maybe a little pretentious). Bears repeat listening for sure. Saw them live when this came out and it was memorable, really high-energy, dynamic. Excellent band, glad to see this album on the list. Well deserved.
Back in my wheelhouse. I really like this album but its inclusion in the book is mystifying. The album plods along nicely, and it’s fairly standard 90s alternative fare. It’s got a grunge feel, and GLP, lyrics and vocals suit that grunge vibe. If you crossed Neil Young with early Radiohead, this is what you would get. I can see why people find this album bland and/or stodgy because there is nothing that truly excites, or is innovative, which is why I don’t think it should be in the book, but it’s consistent and warm and I will listen to it many more times.
Wow, it's like a male lana del ray in an amazing way! Such a great album!
Not sure how I missed this one completely - its very good! Short lived band I learned...too bad.
Pretty chill. Bob Dylan, old country, old rock vibes. Nothing to dislike really
Never heard of them, but this album was really good!
A surprising alternative act!
20/04/2025 I enjoyed the album, it wasn't the best thing I have heard, but it was still good.
Brand new artist for me, but I enjoyed it. Got a bit slow in the second half and dragged a bit, but liked the emotion he put into these songs. 3.5/5 gonna round up as I think I would also enjoy many more tracks from his catalog
Really thought that wasn't going to be my taste but was impressed with the sounds
I surprisingly enjoyed this. I'm pretty sure it was his voice that reeled me in.
Слушайте, а неплохо. Как обычно мой снобистский мозг отверг песни под гитару сначала, а потом вслушался. Альбом погружает в теплую ламповую атмосферу горно-лесного похода (по крайней мере у меня такое было ощущение), по классике хорошо в дорогу и вообще приятная спокойная музыка. Без откровений и без отвращений, звучит как хипстерский инди-фолк. Слушаем такое.
was about to throw hands for getting yet another lousy country album but whaddaya kno it's actually quite well done
Criminally underrated album - and band. Maybe it's the lat-country tag that probably wasn't a big selling point in 1993, but it's more alternative rock than anything else, really. Like a countryfied version of the Pixies or something. Great compositions, it rocks just as much as it's touching. I won't sleep until this one gets all the praise it deserves.
Well, I find myself to be really surprised by that one. Who would have guess that a fantastic alt-country record was lying just there in 1993? It's melancholic, powerful, heartfelt and sounding very well overall. I loved that one!
Not a bad album. Not my first choice but a decent listen. Can’t quite put my finger on what band it reminds me of which is bugging me. But oh well
Grateful to have discovered this artist (with a voice that reminds me of someone else so strongly, yet I can't place the name). These songs have a certain grip to them, and I'm eager to revisit the record soon.
I like the echo
Another new album and artist. I loved the intensity of the songs.
90's angst at its best.
Must say the album starts really weak with 'The Shining Hour'. Sets the tone completely wrong for the rest of the album. I thought I was in for a rough ride. I was caught off guard when 'Jupiter and Teardrop' came on and was a big improvement already. 'Fuzzy' comes next and now you know what this album is supposed to sound like. Very good song, hits all my pressure points perfectly. It's very melancholic, and Grant-Lee's voice is really powerful and cuts through the mix perfectly. The rest of the album follows along that melancholic and emotionally loaded trajectory, but never becomes cheesy to me. The album also has a kind of grit, or feeling of almost being a demo version, but without sounding bad at all - quite the contrary. A bit hard to pit my finger on. And I really like Grant's singing, it's powerful and he has great presence. Overall quite pleasantly surprised by this. Never heard it before, but I really liked it and think I'll revisit this album many times in the future.
To many people’s surprise (or just my dad for that matter, who is the only one who reads my reviews), this album was actually pretty good. His voice reminded me of a mixture of vocals that I like, and despite it being more of a mellow sounding album it was calming and refreshing.
Never heard of this band before but I enjoyed this album! Some nice songs on here. Very chill 4 ⭐️
One of those "I vaguely remember hearing about these guys back in the 90's" acts that this site seems to have a lot of. Sometimes you get something good, sometimes you get something bad. This is one of the good ones.
Day409 - with a name like grant lee buffalo how can it not be cool. listening thirty-two years after its release is seems like it should have had a bigger audience. his sound is similar to the band the waterboys
The vocales are charming with enough variety to make this an interesting listening.
Another musician I get mixed up with Nick Cave, Nick Low and Jeff Buckley. It was alright. Pretty much what I expected
Solid album...his best
Most of these songs are really good. They are moody and atmospheric with just the right amount of 90s edge. I even considered giving it 5 stars, but the album suffers from a couple of tracks that seem engineered to get radio play and that are far too repetitive ("Jupiter and Teardrop" and "Stars n'Stripes").
Oh wow, an album from the 90s that’s actually good. It must be very chilly in hell and air travel must be a nightmare with all those pigs taking flight. Never heard of this guy before, but I’ll definitely give some of his other stuff a listen after this.
I was wondering for a while, where have I heard of Grant Lee Buffalo before? Turns out I was thinking of former professional goalkeeper Lee Grant. I enjoyed the album.
Pretty good actually. I listened a 2nd time and liked it more. Sounds ahead of its time. Not too surprised it wasn't popular though. No real home in radio heavy early 90s
Good 90s rock
Absolutely gut wrenching and heartbreaking and tender and beautiful and INSANELY underrated, how did I not hear this until now?
Way better than I anticipated. Like a younger, better singer, american Neil Young. Idk if he’s actually american or not but hopefully you pick up what Im throwin down. Kinda like a rocky folk and like og to what some like to call Americana now. Solid 4 star.
Has that distinct 90's alt sound to it with a little less energy. I like the sound pretty well still
Yes please!
real good stuff
Hadn't heard of the artist before, didn't expect much, but this was a really nice journey.
This was a pleasant surprise!
Wow, super interesting album. Never heard of Grant Lee Buffalo (full blooded American name lol) Sonically and instrumentation, I loved it. Very nice blend of folk/rock/country. Vocally, Grant Lee sounds like Bono from U2 and Corgan from Smashing Pumpkins. A lot of semi spoken/sung lyrics. Song I liked: Fuzzy, Grace, The Hook 3.5 stars and rounding up to 4
Quality album.
7/10
Grant Lee Buffalo is a band that I've always been aware of, but never spent much time with. Fuzzy gets weirder (and thus better) as it goes along. I suspect their next albums delve deeper into this, assuming major label pressures didn't sand down their edges. Further investigation is warranted.
Much better than I anticipated and one I’m actually considering running back
Closest thing I’ve heard to an American Radiohead
I’ve never heard of this album or artist before, and I haven’t done any research into what this album is like, so I’m going in completely blind, with zero expectations. This was a really good album, and a fun discovery. The guitar playing, piano, and vocals on “The Shining Hour” really hooked me in right off the bat. I loved how the backing vocals were really muted, and I enjoyed how the guitar picked up intensity about a minute into the song. The piano playing was great too. “Jupiter and Teardrop” was great too, and I loved that it had that shimmering nineties guitar sound. I enjoyed the title track quite a bit as well, and the first three songs really took me back to that period of adult alternative that was popular on the radio during this time. I see that this album is classified as alternative country, but it had more of a rock sound to me, but I’m no expert. The whole album had a really unique sound that I really enjoyed, and it was bolstered by some guitar playing that was incredibly catchy and fun to listen to. I enjoyed the first half of the album a little more than the second half; “Dixie Drug Store” was kind of grating in my opinion, and it stuck out like a sore thumb from the rest of the album. The next person I hear say ‘jambalaya’ is going to get pistol whipped. Overall though, this was a really great discovery, and I’m enjoying getting to listen to all of these albums from the nineties that were never on my radar before.
Nisam ovo sluša od 99te i baš me fino vratilo
Some of these songs sound like that David Gray guy we listened to, except I like this one a whole lot more. Really loved the title track. And boy did it get fuzzy at the end. Album flowed really well and while there were some points I was a little bored, I enjoyed most of the songs above avg.
Surprisingly, I had never heard of this one. Decent early-90s alternative.
I liked it. Maybe felt a little repetitive. But overall very enjoyable.
Music played with passion, honesty and simplicity.
The 4est of 4 star albums. A great sound, in fact some of the best sounds the early 90s could offer to lovers of indie and alternative. Yet it needs something more, probably lyrically, to pull it all the way over the top. Favorite song - Dixie Drug Store.
enjoyable, but didn't impress me much
Growing up in 90s music I am surprised I had not heard this. Good album and a hidden gem
This album has a kind of Tragically Hip vibe to it. I dig it.
I thought this was a very enjoyable blend of country and alternative. Very good vibe and I'll enjoy listening to it again.
Surprised by this one, its kind of dad rocky, but with softer intensity and more thoughtful lyrics
Thoughts before listening: These guys have been on the periphery of my music interests for a long time, but I don't believe I have ever really listened to them. In my mind they are kind of a rootsy take on alternative rock, maybe like the Replacements...but I have no real reason to think this and I may actually be confusing them with Buffalo Tom. Review: This is really good. I was pretty on point with my thoughts about their sound. This is distorted alt-rock but not punk rock. Definitely has a bit of a rootsy, country inspiration to their sound, but this is also not alt-country. This sound is right up my alley so its interesting that this band has remained on my periphery for this long. I have added a few songs to the playlist and am very glad this is on the list (even if its probably not one of the 1,001 albums I must hear before I die). 4-stars
инди рок 7.5/10
❤️👍❤️
4.0
Première écoute : bof, c'est pas transcendent. Deuxième écoute : ah tiens, ce morceau est pas mal. Troisième écoute : c'est super cool dis donc !Clairement cette petite vibe à la Pearl Jam aura fini par me séduire. Je crois que je me vois donc dans l'obligation de leur donner une bonne note ! (et peut-être de me pencher sur d'autres albums).
8/10, so close to 5 stars and contains two of their best songs (Fuzzy and Stars n Stripes) but the best GLB album, which should have been included, is Mighty Joe Moon (10/10).
Wonderful band, and a lot to enjoy here, with the title track as highlight. Close to 5 stars, which probably would have been secured by the follow-up Mighty Joe Moon.
Great surprise for any album I have never heard of. The Hook is an ear worm.
I actually kind of liked this. Personal enjoyment: 4/5 Relevance to this list: 3/5
Grant Lee Buffalo’s *Fuzzy* is a striking debut album that was released in 1993. Helmed by the multi-talented Grant-Lee Phillips, the album fuses alternative rock with folk, country, and even grunge elements to create a distinctive sound that was both raw and poetic. The album earned praise for its compelling lyrics, versatile instrumentation, and Phillips’ powerful voice, which often oscillates between vulnerability and aggression. In this in-depth review, we will explore the album’s lyrics, music, production, themes, and legacy, as well as its strengths and weaknesses. ### Lyrical Analysis One of *Fuzzy*’s most distinguishing features is Grant-Lee Phillips' lyrical prowess. He crafts songs that are steeped in imagery, metaphor, and a sense of place. The lyrics often reflect the landscapes of America, both in a geographical and emotional sense. Phillips blends personal narratives with broader social and political commentary, giving his lyrics a timeless quality. The title track, “Fuzzy,” is one of the most lyrically compelling songs on the album. The lyrics seem to reflect on themes of identity, dislocation, and existential uncertainty. “And you will be my Geraldine / I will be your Jim / And those who fail to see / That no one else will be / The one you love,” Phillips sings, invoking mythical characters that speak to personal and collective loss. The surreal, almost dream-like quality of the lyrics suggests a search for meaning in a chaotic world. Similarly, in songs like “Jupiter and Teardrop” and “Wish You Well,” Phillips employs rich metaphors to explore love, longing, and the frailty of human connections. In “Jupiter and Teardrop,” the image of celestial bodies is juxtaposed with intimate human emotion, creating a sense of distance and isolation: "She wears a locket with a picture worn down / She’s a teardrop that’s splashing into Jupiter’s sound." Another standout in terms of lyrical depth is “America Snoring,” where Phillips delves into political territory. Here, he tackles the disillusionment with American politics, conveying a message of societal apathy and the dangers of complacency: "And the conscience cries / For the beast in everyone / The wolf is loose." The imagery of wolves and sleeping citizens paints a dystopian picture of a country that has lost its way. However, there are moments where the lyrics feel somewhat obscure, which could alienate some listeners who prefer direct storytelling. Songs like “The Hook” are cryptic, making it harder for listeners to engage with the song’s message on the first listen. ### Musical Composition and Instrumentation Musically, *Fuzzy* traverses several genres and moods, creating a textured sonic palette. Grant Lee Buffalo blends folk-rock with grunge, country, and psychedelia, crafting an expansive yet intimate sound. The instrumentation is rich and varied, with Phillips himself playing guitar and handling most of the arrangements. The album’s opening track, “The Shining Hour,” sets the tone with a powerful mix of jangly acoustic guitars and electric distortion, anchored by Paul Kimble’s deep, resonant bass lines and Joey Peters’ steady, dynamic drumming. The track showcases the band’s ability to create lush, layered soundscapes that enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics. On the title track “Fuzzy,” the music takes a more subdued, melancholic turn. Phillips’ acoustic strumming is paired with a haunting electric guitar riff that spirals in and out of the mix, echoing the ambiguity and introspection of the lyrics. The song’s production, which allows the instrumentation to breathe, contributes to its dreamlike atmosphere. Another standout track in terms of instrumentation is “Jupiter and Teardrop.” The swirling guitars and soft, yet persistent drums provide a spacey, ethereal sound that complements the celestial imagery of the lyrics. The song’s arrangement is intricate yet never overwhelming, and this balance is one of Grant Lee Buffalo’s greatest strengths. The folk influence is palpable throughout the album, particularly in songs like “Dixie Drug Store” and “Grace,” where twangy guitars and acoustic arrangements dominate. “Grace” features delicate fingerpicking and a plaintive vocal performance from Phillips, bringing a sense of vulnerability to the forefront. However, there are some tracks that, while strong on their own, feel slightly out of place within the broader context of the album. “Stars N’ Stripes,” for instance, leans heavily into a rockabilly sound, which, although interesting, feels a bit disjointed compared to the more cohesive folk-rock atmosphere of the album. ### Production Quality The production on *Fuzzy* is both raw and polished, striking a balance between capturing the band’s live energy and crafting a well-defined studio sound. The album was produced by Paul Kimble, the band’s bassist, and this insider approach likely contributed to the cohesiveness of the sound. The production allows the emotional intensity of the performances to shine through. Phillips’ voice, which is often layered with reverb, is the centerpiece of most tracks. His vocal performances range from intimate whispers to impassioned wails, and the production does well to highlight this dynamic range without overpowering the instrumentation. The mixing is clean, allowing each instrument to be heard clearly. The drums, in particular, are well recorded, giving them a punch that adds to the album’s sense of urgency, especially on tracks like “The Shining Hour” and “America Snoring.” However, the production does show its limitations in a few places. On some tracks, particularly those with more complex arrangements like “Jupiter and Teardrop,” the mix can feel slightly cluttered, with certain instruments fighting for space in the sonic landscape. While this doesn’t significantly detract from the overall experience, it does prevent some songs from reaching their full potential in terms of clarity and impact. ### Themes and Concepts At its core, *Fuzzy* is an album about dislocation, both personal and cultural. Phillips’ lyrics often touch on themes of identity, loss, and the search for meaning in a world that seems to be unraveling. This sense of dislocation is mirrored in the music itself, which shifts between genres and moods, creating a sense of instability. One of the most prominent themes on the album is the critique of American culture and politics. In songs like “America Snoring” and “Stars N’ Stripes,” Phillips explores the darker side of American life, focusing on themes of corruption, apathy, and disillusionment. “America Snoring” stands out as a scathing indictment of a society that has lost its way, with Phillips singing, "America is snoring, it’s boring, it’s ignoring all our ways." The theme of personal loss and longing also runs through the album. On tracks like “Fuzzy” and “Jupiter and Teardrop,” Phillips uses metaphor and imagery to explore the fragility of human connections. This emotional undercurrent gives the album a melancholic, introspective quality that resonates on a deeply personal level. The interplay between the personal and the political is one of the album’s greatest strengths. Phillips manages to weave these themes together in a way that feels natural and cohesive, rather than forced or didactic. ### Influence and Legacy While *Fuzzy* did not achieve mainstream success upon its release, it garnered critical acclaim and has since become something of a cult classic. The album’s unique blend of folk, rock, and grunge set it apart from many of its contemporaries, and its influence can be seen in the work of later alternative and indie rock artists. Grant Lee Buffalo’s sound on *Fuzzy* paved the way for a more introspective, lyrically driven approach to alternative rock. Bands like The National and Fleet Foxes, known for their atmospheric soundscapes and poetic lyrics, owe a debt to the groundwork laid by *Fuzzy*. However, the album’s lack of commercial success also highlights its limitations in terms of accessibility. The complexity of the lyrics and the often subdued nature of the music may have made it harder for *Fuzzy* to connect with a broader audience, particularly in the context of the grunge-dominated early '90s. ### Pros and Cons #### Pros: 1. **Lyrical Depth**: Grant-Lee Phillips’ lyrics are rich in metaphor and imagery, giving the album a poetic, introspective quality. 2. **Versatile Instrumentation**: The band’s blend of folk, rock, and country elements creates a dynamic and varied sonic palette. 3. **Vocal Performance**: Phillips’ vocal range and emotional delivery add depth to the album’s themes of dislocation and longing. 4. **Cohesive Themes**: The interplay between personal and political themes gives the album a sense of depth and complexity. 5. **Production**: The raw yet polished production enhances the emotional intensity of the songs, particularly Phillips’ vocals. #### Cons: 1. **Obscure Lyrics**: At times, the cryptic nature of the lyrics can make it difficult for listeners to connect with the songs on a personal level. 2. **Pacing Issues**: Some tracks feel out of place within the broader context of the album, disrupting its overall flow. 3. **Cluttered Mix**: On certain songs, the production can feel slightly cluttered, with instruments fighting for space in the mix. 4. **Limited Accessibility**: The album’s introspective nature and subdued sound may not appeal to listeners looking for more immediate or accessible music. ### Conclusion Grant Lee Buffalo’s *Fuzzy* is a deeply atmospheric and lyrically rich debut that showcases the band’s unique blend of folk, rock, and country influences. The album’s exploration of personal and political themes, combined with its intricate instrumentation and raw production, gives it a timeless quality that has allowed it to endure long after its initial release. While *Fuzzy* may not have achieved mainstream success, its influence on the alternative and indie rock scenes is undeniable . Despite its occasional pacing issues and cryptic lyrics, *Fuzzy* remains a powerful, emotionally resonant album that stands as a testament to Grant-Lee Phillips' songwriting and vocal talent.
Surprisingly good
ok
I remember seeing and selling this when i worked at record stores, but I'm not sure why it never grabbed me then. "Jupiter and Teardrop" is so Bowie but with that extra impactive guitar sound. Loving that track so much. The layers of acoustic and electric guitar work well here. And man, some of these lyrics: "When the earth is ripe All the worms wake up In their stars and stripes And their swastikas" Reading up on the band and on Grant Lee Philips, it blows my mind how much exposure they had without also experiencing mainstream success. Maybe the political lyrics that offer a scathing critique of America had something to do with it? There are country influences here, but not enough of that flavour to nauseate me. It's cool to discover music later than its cultural moment and to love it---so much better than never experiencing it at all! I don't love all of this album, and it's probably not one I'll return to frequently, but it's good and definitely underappreciated.
Every song was great! Nothing really stood out about this artist but I did enjoy it - mellow, great guitar.
Oh! I listened to Mad Season's beautiful "Wake Up" yesterday and the second song the algorithm did play after that was from this album. It wasn't as good the first one, from CSNY. So much for a first impression. [...] ... this was absolutely nice and pleasant and everything - good job, algorithm, I see why you did that - but also a largely uneventful experience. I cherish the vibe & atmosphere of it but Fuzzy will leave no lasting memory.
Great example of why I’m enjoying this challenge, despite the occasional dud. I’ve never heard of this group, but my ears perked up on the first song, and I was hooked by the second cut. Totally smitten by the time I got to “Fuzzy”. I hear a little of 70s Bowie in the band, and it works! Even a little Dylan in the songwriting… By the middle of the album I’m asking myself, who IS this group and how did I miss them in ‘93!?! Love finding “new to me” music like this. The momentum of the album slows down a bit toward the back half but damn, this is a solid one. Will be revisiting for sure. Hopefully I can find an OG on vinyl.
I thought it was really good. With a name like Grant Lee Buffalo I was expecting something less appealing, but it ended up being a jam.
Great surprise
Solid album from an artist I've never heard before. Would've gotten a full 5 but it became a little too much of the same by the end. Regardless, the music remained interesting throughout. Hints of David Bowie, Destroyer and Jeff Buckley. Standout Tracks: Jupiter and Teardrop, The Hook, Dixie Drug Store
Good listening, the album breezed by
Sounds like if late 90s U2 made country
Solid indie/alt album, bit slow - didn't finish it all but I liked the first half
Getting back into the habit of listening to an album a day again (and a lot to catch up on!) This was enjoyable and I would listen to it again. I've never heard of this artist & will check out their other stuff.
It's like your cool, slightly moody older cousin showed up with a guitar and some angst. 4 out of 5 stars just because.
Deserves second listen
I really liked it. I don’t know how I missed this in the 90s, but Wikipedia says that the band never really broke out of cult status despite mostly positive reviews. They were big in LA, I guess, and I lived far, far away in flyover country at the time.
I have a soft spot for emotional indie music. I find music like this soothing and I appreciate it being on the list. I spent a few years only listening to sad music and while I'm glad I don't do that anymore, I think this album is a very well executed piece. Favorite song: Jupiter and Teardrops
A nice bit of Americana to keep things cool. Buffalo's approach sounds so natural, you'd think he was made to do this. The opening three-song run is exemplary of his talent, though the rest of the album is a pleasant listen as well. Easy 4.
I liked this a lot. Surprised I never came across these guys back in the day. They are right up my alley.
Great road trip song, which was perfect timing for my hour-long drive in Norway
Somewhere between Bob Dylan and Neil Young.
A surprisingly good listen. Knew nothing about this artist. But every song was pleasant. Nothing really stood out but I enjoyed every minute of this one.
The Shining Hour // Jupiter And Teardrop // Fuzzy // Stars N' Stripes //