It's A Shame About Ray

Mrs Robinson.

This album brings a really nice 1990's feel (I mean, it was released in the 1990's). It's a nice alternative rock album. It's quite nostalgic for a time before I was born.

Love this album. A top 250 album for me.

Have seen this album done in its entirety and it’s a great collection of songs that work well together. Forgot how strong it starts and the quiet way it ends. Takes you in a journey at a time in life.

Love the Lemonheads. Saw them perform this album in full. Show was terrible because Evan Dando was completely wasted. Would not recommend them live.

Loved it

Excellent!

Short and sweet pop gems.

soundtrack to the 90s and introduced me to julianna hatfield. 5/5

Easy-to-rate album. Lemonheads at their peak. At the time, I would prefer Come on Feel the Lemonheads over It's a Shame About Ray, Lovey and Lick, but after a while moved to the consensus view that It's a Shame About Ray is their best work. It definitely contains their best song (My Drug Buddy).

I really enjoyed this album! This might be my first time ever saying this, but I honestly thought that most of the songs were too short. I wanted more! 4.5 stars, and idk how to round it.

I'm not sure if I'm familiar with this cover of Mrs. Robinson or just some other punk style cover of it. I enjoyed this album even though I don't really have any commentary on it. I hope to remember to go check out their other work, it's just really solidly in my "put on and go do stuff" wheelhouse.

Brings me right back to when I 1st heard it.

Great

Easy to mock as lightweight but although the music is of a time it doesn’t sound too dated. Upbeat and more listenable than much of the 1001.

A bit of a nostalgia rating but I fucking love this album.

Quality album

Where has this album been my whole life?? It came out when I was born so it’s been here this whole time. Glad I’ve finally listened to it. I’m a lemon head. Also how can the same song be iconic twice? Mrs Robinson you’ve done it again.

This was one of the most influential albums of my teen years. It was constantly on in my room and my walkman.

This is one of my favorite albums from my younger days. Love the melodies & strong clear vocals. Great song writing and excellent guitarwork. Awesome bass & drums. Nothing is overdone. I have my CD. It has 13 songs on it. It's perfect enough as it is. Stop with all of the 30 song deluxe expanded editions. Good grief. Frank Mills has always been a secret favorite of mine and it would've been a great one to end the album on... but for an encore, they ROCK that Garfunkle & Simon song!

Low key one of the most influential albums of the 90’s and contains one of the best covers ever. Lovely

I have a real soft spot for this bit of jangly, 90s alt-pop.

I quite enjoyed this album full of (generally) upbeat jangly pop/rock. Nothing too heavy or serious, the vocalist sounds like a mellow Kurt Cobain and the production is crisp (great drum sound). It floated my boat, so top marks from me.

What a very good album this is! A ferocious start with the descending riff of 'Rock and Stroll', followed by the melodic 'Confetti', this is a record of punky pop tunes that really haven't ages in 32 years. The album's closer, a cover of 'Mrs Robinson', wasn't on the initial pressings but was added following it's success as a breakout single. My personal favourite on the album is the gorgeous 'My Drug Buddy', a brilliant piece of writing by Evan Dando, whilst the heartfelt 'Frank Mills' is a strange but affecting vignette. An excellent selection of demos can be found on the double CD anniversary reissue from a few years ago. We'll worth hearing if you're not familiar with them!

jako cute

It's been a long time since I listened to this album, but it's aged very well.

cool

Excellent. Just a solid rock album.

Remember Limewire? Remember downloading all of your favourite songs which were all incorrectly attributed to different bands (if you were lucky enough for it to be music at all)? I first heard this version of Mrs. Robinson from dodgy Limewire downloads, marked as being by The Ramones. I can kind of see why from the voice. Kind of. Anyway, let’s listen! Songs I already knew: Mrs Robinson Favourites: It’s A Shame About Ray, Alison’s Starting To Happen, Mrs Robinson This album way right up my alley. Somewhat lazy vocals over a mix of clean and distorted guitars, and plenty of catchy Melodie’s and harmonies. In other words, 90’s alt rock. After the first few seconds of the opening track I was hooked, and this remained the same right through until the end. The rocky tracks rock, and the softer ones are very pleasant. I can’t fault this. I love it.

I love an excuse to listen to The Lemonheads. Their unique brand of folksy, indie alt rock with a hint of country here and there has always been an amazing concept, and they've been one of my favourite bands from the moment I started listening to them. There's not a single bad song on this album, and there's no hesitation in me giving it 5 stars right off the bat. Their cover of Mrs. Robinson is amazing, and I prefer it to the original. The title track is absolutely perfect, and "Bit Part" is a jam too.

I have never listened to the whole album and I'm sorry I hadn't until now. It's wonderful.

A FANTASTIC mix of 90s alt and emo. The vibes are perfect. Brilliant songwriting and pitch perfect riffs throughout. This really hit on all cylinders. I loved it. I can see influences all over the place.

Had this album on continuous rotation when it came out.

Nice finding!

Always loved this album. Evan Dando has a great ear for melody, and the simple structures of the songs bely a depth that comes across after a few listens. Superb stuff

Album 118 of 1001 Lemonheads - It's a Shame About Ray Rating : 5 / 5 Favorite Track : It's a Shame About Ray / Allison's Starting to Happen / Bit Part (Too many to choose) Brought a big smile to my face when I saw this was my recommended 'album of the day'. This is a personal favorite. My ranking has more to do with the fact that I just really like this album. Good songs that I'm happy to call old friends. It isn't always about the perfect song, the perfect production, the perfect sound...sometimes it is just about what one likes. You won't find this in any discussion about the greatest album ever nor would I expect it to be. We all know what we like and should embrace that. Evan Dando had promised that the album would be "half an hour of guitar-pop perfection, walking the tightrope effortlessly between laid-back melodies and rousing indie cool. It brimmed with the confidence of a songwriter peaking". He delivered. One reviewer wrote "There are other great Lemonheads records, but It’s a Shame About Ray is a singular sort of feat. One almost wants to gouge it from their discography and pretend it’s a one-off from a band who were never heard of again—it has that feeling of a moment in time, something doomed to wilt because its colours were too bright to begin with." I recommend this to those who aren't familiar with either it or the band. Those who do know it, should stop by and pay it a visit. I'm happy to list it as one of my all-time favorites.

Me ha encantado.

So good. Beautifully harmonies and classic 90s rock sound.

Lätt banalt och nonchigt, men inte ett svagt spår. Under en halvtimme och Juliana Hatfield körar. Föredömligt.

"No Juliana next to my Evan" This is arguably the most 90's alt rock record of all the 90's alt rock records ever recorded. Other possible contenders being Weezer - Blue album, Counting Crows - August and Everything After, and Letters to Cleo - Aurora Gory Alice. It's just a stunning perfect masterpiece of exactly what it is - disaffected outcast youth expressing its apathetic and oftentimes wry or self-deprecating views on life, love, and all that bullshit you have to endure when finding oneself.

I've always seen this as pretty much a perfect album and one I still revisit regularly. Hey, I was in sixth form when it came out and everyone loved it. It was an album that I bonded with people I'd normally hate over.

Delighted when this one appeared for me this morning, and instantly knew what my rating would be. Played this a lot when it came out, and its near half hour burst of quickfire songs has always given me a lift. Two bonuses. 1) Juliana Hatfield on bass and backing vocals (which provide a nice contrast to Evan Dando's voice). 2) Not there when I bought it originally on vinyl - a fun throwaway cover of Mrs Robinson.

I used to wear this record out

This is a 90's slacker classic. The Lemonheads were so good at churning out sub-3 minute rock songs that were catchy as hell. This album doesn't even have "Into Your Arms" on it either!

I enjoy this. I can’t tell if it is dated. Some of it is but a lot of it still feels fresh. It is still an album I can’t divorce from the 90s. I’ll come back to this because it’s catchy. That holds up.

The only lemonheads songs I knew were their covers of “Mrs Robinson” and “Skulls”. Simon and Garfunkel to The Misfits, that’s eclectic. I was curious what this album would be like. I really like this album a lot, there’s great melody and hooks for days. I love Juliana Hadfields harmonies. It’s interesting this album dropped in the height of grunge, it doesn’t really sound grunge at all. Maybe that’s why it didn’t get more attention. To me this is more in the vein of “college rock” like R.E.M., Replacements or Husker Du. In fact, Evan Dando’s vocals and songwriting reminds me of Paul Westerberg a bit.

I really did like this album! Some of the songs kind of sound like they'd be in The Barbie Diaries, not that it's a bad thing because it reminds me of my childhood but it is interesting. There's also something that vaguely reminds me of Sonic Youth in a way.

Really fun stuff

Man what a fantastic album. If you’ve only heard their cover of Mrs. Robinson you should really listen to the rest of the album

Great album.

90s alt rock goodness. Loved this album when it came out the first time I heard it. Still in my "Favourites" rotation.

cabeza lemon

I love this album and band. It's a shame about Evan Dando, the dude had some great musical ability and good looks, it's arguablybthat those two things should've propelled the band to bigger heights. Drugs are bad, kids. Don't fool yourselves. If I am honest this is probably a 4, or 4.5 but I have such strong feelings here that I've gotta bump it up. Several of these songs are staples across several playlists so I think it earns that bump just for that.

Fun, quick, and full of catchy tracks. Also might be the most radio friendly Grunge in my opinion. Great shit.

The Lemonheads breakthrough record, It's A Shame About Ray released in 1992, gained the band a widespread following and critical acclaim and it remains their greatest achievement. The only original founding member, Evan Dando crafted a poppy alternative rock sound on this record preceding a more punk sound on their earlier albums. When this record was released, I instantly fell in love with the songs and wore the crap out of that cassette. It remains a constant in my music listening, as it not only captures something about that time period, but it's such a catchy, upbeat record it always puts a smile on my face. Personally, I rank this high as a favourite from the 90's and it's a shame they haven't released anything as good since. Evan continues to tour this record (played in it's entirety) that celebrated it's 30th anniversary this year.

A personal favourite, with great backing by Juliana Hatfield which adds so much to these songs

Flashback for me. Found myself recalling some great tunes and lyrics. Singing along very happily!

Good album, it gave off that early 90s grunge rock vibe. I need to listen to more 90s alternative rock albums.

It's good!

surpreendente, curti o som

Mrs Robinson Cover. Liked it but i wasn't blown away. Melancholy punk rock

Such a classic album! Every song is pop rock perfection.

This will always be one of my favourite records.

Such a good album. I've played it three times today, including the demos.

This was probably the best album in their progression towards more mellow tunes. At the time it was probably an album by a traditionally grunge band that your parents wouldn’t mind you putting on. Loved it at the time and still remember all the words.

I like The Lemonheads and this is a pretty good album.

First off the title track is one my favorite songs of all time, it finds its way on so many of my playlists. Confetti and My Drug Buddy are great tunes as well. While it was overplayed as shit back in the 90's, Mrs Robinson is still a good cover. Last thing Juliana Hatfield's backing vocals are awesome this album. It's probably a 4 star album but I'll give it 5 stars based on the title track and the fact it reminds of being 20 again.

Anyone turned on to Lemonheads with Lick, Lovey, and the Favorite Spanish Dishes EP pointed to IASAR coming once Dando had the right lineup and songwriting partners. Hatfield’s backing vocals add some sweet, sometimes sad, texture to Dando’s singing. This is a perfectly crafted indie-pop album. It’s a road-trip sing-along record that can be played on repeat. Except for one thing… when I got the CD back in the day it didn’t have the Mrs. Robinson cover. I prefer that version. It wasn’t a necessary add and it’s inclusion diminished the album a bit.

5 stars immediately. Sentimental favorite. Way too many memories attached to this one to pretend. But also I think these quickie songs hold up - catchy as all shit and taking you to some unusual places - at least for music made in '92. If you like this and have never listened to their album 'Hate Your Friends', give it a try.

I'm only about 5 songs in but this is the most 90s rock album I've ever heard in my life. If you asked a computer to make an amalgamation of all 90s rock bands this is what it would spit out. This is right up my alley, never heard of this band but really digging it and added a few songs to my playlist. One thing I always do when a band I've never heard of comes up on this list is try and figure out which song is that one song that I've definitely heard before; super easy in this case.

good

Ok 100

Great laid-back indie pop. I think it might be worthy of the golden 5 out of 5! Hook laden singalongs. Continually came back to this album through the 90s. Pity that Evan Dando started taking himself so seriously...

A complete joy and a personal favourite. The threshold between teenage and adulthood on one CD.

I love Evan Dando so, so much and this album is probably his best. The inclusion of Frank Mills from Hair, the musical makes me extra warm inside.

90s goodness. I’ve heard of this band but never actually listened to their music. I love it!

Loved it

This is one of my all time favorite albums. I love it.

Like accidentally staying out too late at a Thursday happy hour and realizing there’s suddenly a band playing in the corner.

I have always loved this album and still do but it's a little bit marred by Evan Dando being a creep.

Had a great time listening to this! Just a great 90s indie album, nice upbeat songs. I know they had a big influence and Evan Dando was quite a figure but I've never heard much of their music before. Loved It's A Shame About Ray, Rudderless, Alison's Starting to Happen

I have to love when it’s clear something I haven’t heard outside of the thing that made them popular is right in my wheelhouse. I don’t know that it’s worthy of a 5 but this is absolutely what I go for stylistically. I’m very excited to listen to more from this band.

No shame about The Lemonheads, that’s a great fifth album! I remember their rockin’ (put them on the map) cover of Mrs Robinson well, always liked it and just their sound in general. Song topics, mellow lead vocals, guitar riffs, and lyrics all work for me. The Turnpike Down is the best song, but all songs are good, Frank Mills is the weak link. (4.25*s) Also liked the can’t at around age 12.

Lemonheads *are* underrated. Toad the wet sprocket absolutely took their sound from them. Coil doesn't happen without this album. But it's known for its cover of Mrs. Robinson even though it doesn't sound like the rest of the album. It's weird. Good 90s album coming in with the same vibe as the Gin Blossoms and Tonic.

Trivelig sommerlytt.

3.5

It's not pulling up any tees, but I enjoyed this album enough to give it a four.

Great 90s feel. I can't tell if I recognize the Mrs. Robinson cover or if I just know the original. Pretty good though.

I just want a bit part in your life! This album is right up my street, and it is executed brilliantly. The tracklist is of consistent high quality, and it doesn't outstay it's welcome. Not to mention the brilliant cover of Mrs Robinson near the end. Great stuff I'll be listening again. Favourites: Confetti The Turnpike Down Kitchen Shakey Ground

My Drug Buddy is one of my favourite songs from the 90s - their 1998 best of is all you need

I feel like I listened to this before when I first discovered the song "It's A Shame about Ray" and didn't connect. I like it much better this time. I really need to listen these guys more.

got them mixed up with the lemon twigs. there were a few songs that i liked. i really liked the demo versions

Never heard anything by them before, very pleasantly surprised!

Previously the only song I’d heard from them is their cover of Mrs Robinson. Really enjoyed this album and ended up listening to some of their other stuff too which I also liked!

I saw Evan Dando “perform” this album a few years back at 930 Club. It's fair to say it was one of the ten worst shows I've ever seen. He was intoxicated beyond reason and so off in his singing and playing that his band members were flailingly trying to make it work and failing badly. It's a shame about Evan, because this is one of the great pop rock records of the 90s, along with Come On Hear The Lemonheads. I've loved this one a long time and it's just as great to me now as it was then

i honestly loved...got a little slow at the end tho

Contemporary well produced pop rock album, 1960/70s: People would be tripping over themselves to glaze it. Contemporary well produced pop rock album, 1990s: Boring, Meh, Uninspired, Soulless. People really have no own opinions or principles.

very nice sound!

Enjoyed it more than I remembered - keen to check out their earlier music as I read it's faster and Husker Du-ish

Favorite Track: Mrs. Robinson

I really like indie pop so this hit a sweet spot for me. Reminds me a lot of bands I love now, but this was the early 90s! Truly the indie pop blueprint.

Better than I expected

I really enjoyed this album. Will come back to it again.

Catchy melodies and fun guitar riffs!

Rudderless kinda says “poop in my pants”

Still as enjoyable a listen as I remember back in the day. Ok so it dipped a bit after the first half dozen or so songs but still great.

I am pretty sure that I haven’t listened to this album in 30 years. They always seemed a little lightweight when compared to other bands of the time. I love it! There are so many catchy songs - I was singing Confetti for the rest of the day. Mrs Robinson is a classic example of how to do a cover version. Rework it and make it your own.

soft alternative rock, rudderles and its a shame about ray are the best songs, the rest of kinda mid

man i love the 90’s

Got a complex set of feelings about this one, always have. Every time I revisit this record I think it's going to contain some "aha!" moment where suddenly this is a revelatory experience that says more about me than I already know, but what I really get is passable-if-not-catchy power pop. It's not exactly worth 3 stars but it still feels weird giving it 4; it's the definition of 3.5 stars or a 7/10. The title track, "Rudderless" and "Frank Mills" are all-timers but I genuinely don't remember the rest once the record is off. Love Juliana though, and an obligatory mention that Evan Dando, especially in light of recent events, needs to put down the phone and the heroin and get his shit together, because whatever legacy he's been leaving for himself is burning up quickly. Sad and shameful all around with him.

First listen to that. Nice one, thanks!

Excellent album, not heard it for a few years - some great tunes on here - Evan Dando -

the lemonheads are the kind of group that piper halliwell would hire to play at P3. it's that 90's indie rock feel that sounds similar to thirty different things, but there's that individuality which makes returning rather simple.

Being a 90s kid i'm not sure how or why I never listened to this. Like maybe I'm heard the title track but didn't realize this whole album was great. From a pace standpoint it doesn't have the highs and lows that I usually look for in an album, but either way it's solid AF. Just a great all around rock album filled with really good performances.

This was a good album! I enjoyed the alt rock 90s of it lol

This album makes me so happy. I don't know what this dude is talking about but I lowk get it. This record is like a Sunday afternoon, and the singer supports it by delivering a happy but calm tone about Sunday things. Great combination of incorporating both electric and acoustic guitars throughout the album as well. Sure it's basic, but its simplicity brings immersiveness and tones that make the album cruise by. It gets less and less fun throughout however, and some songs sound very formulaic.

Great simple garage rock but nothing that overly stood out to give it 5 stars

I didn't start out loving this album, but it grew on me as it went on. It's very 90s sounding, and several songs felt like they wouldn't be out of place on a Tony Hawk Pro Skater soundtrack. By the end I was having a fun time with this one. Recommend.

Nirvana meets the Byrds. This is the album that stands in the corner of the dance floor, fists jammed in pockets and head nodding disinterestedly to the beat, but still effortlessly jangly.

## Overview Released in June 1992, *It's A Shame About Ray* represents the pivotal moment when The Lemonheads transformed from a promising Boston punk band into one of the defining voices of '90s alternative rock. Recorded primarily at Cherokee Studios in Los Angeles with producers the Robb Brothers, the album captures Evan Dando at the peak of his songwriting powers—a brief, shining window before fame and addiction would complicate his trajectory . --- ## The Music: Jangle-Pop Meets Grunge-Adjacent Energy ### Sonic Palette The album occupies a unique space in the early '90s landscape. While Seattle bands were drowning in distortion and angst, The Lemonheads offered something lighter yet no less emotionally resonant: "edgy power pop" with "ragged, grungy edges" that prevented the melodies from becoming too pretty . The Robb Brothers' production at Cherokee Studios emphasized acoustic textures while maintaining the band's punk energy—"butterscotch streetlamps" and warm, live-feeling recordings that let Dando's songs speak for themselves . The sound is characterized by: - **Jangly, melodic guitars** that nod to R.E.M. and The Byrds - **Brief, compact song structures** (most tracks clock in under 3 minutes) - **Dynamic interplay** between electric and acoustic instrumentation - **Juliana Hatfield's harmonies**, which add "lemon zest" brightness to tracks like "Bit Part" ### Standout Musical Moments **"Rockin' Stroll"** opens the album with childhood nostalgia translated into propulsive, heartfelt rock. **"The Turnpike Down"** incorporates country-tinged slide guitar, while **"Ceiling Fan In My Spoon"** embraces grunge-inspired distortion . **"My Drug Buddy"** features a soulful organ and stands as perhaps the album's most musically restrained yet emotionally devastating moment . --- ## Lyrics: Cinematic Storytelling and Emotional Rawness ### Narrative Approach Dando's lyrics on *Ray* take on a "cinematic quality," painting vivid images of the people and places he encountered during his transformative time in Australia . The album is "stuffed with colourful personalities," from Alison Galloway (the real-life Alison who was "starting to happen") to Tom Morgan's roommate Nicole (the titular "Drug Buddy") . ### Key Themes **Disappearance and Loss** The title track—co-written with Smudge's Tom Morgan—originated from a newspaper headline Dando spotted in Australia about either TV presenter Ray Martin losing his job or a Melbourne vagrant known simply as "Ray." Dando described it as "a very open-ended, grey sort of song" about "a disappearing person" . The haunting line *"Some things need to go away"* captures the album's preoccupation with absence and the complicated relief of letting go . **Drug Use and Addiction** Critics have noted that *Ray* is "as much a junkie album as *Nevermind*," though it wears its pharmaceutical blanket more subtly . "My Drug Buddy" is the centerpiece—a "beautifully raw and honest depiction" of scoring speed in Sydney's suburbs and the hollow intimacy of addiction. The line *"I'm too much with myself, I want to be someone else"* stands as Dando's most open confession, revealing the alienation beneath the camaraderie . **Failed Relationships and Divorce** "Confetti"—written about Dando's parents' divorce—explores "the way people go along with a relationship without really caring about it, just to keep the other person happy" . "Bit Part" uses acting terminology ("cameo," "walk-on," "stand-in") to express desperate longing for connection, even peripheral ones . **Aimlessness and Self-Discovery** "Rudderless" gives the album its emotional thesis: *"Like a ship without a rudder is like a ship without a rudder"*—a meditation on lacking direction that resonates whether applied to drug addiction or simply "ascending into adulthood" . --- ## Production: The Robb Brothers and Cherokee Studios The Robb Brothers (Dee, Joe, and Bruce) brought both technical expertise and an impressive rolodex to the sessions. They recruited session musicians like guitarist Jeff "Skunk" Baxter and Barry Goldberg (Bob Dylan's keyboard player), creating what Dando recalled as a "wild" atmosphere—Baxter famously placed his gun and Amtrak police badge on the console as a warning: "Don't fuck with me!" . The production philosophy emphasized: - **Organic, live energy** harnessed through Cherokee Studios' unique acoustics - **Acoustic-driven arrangements** that softened the band's punk edge without sacrificing vitality - **Innovative recording techniques**, including unconventional guitar track overlapping on the title song Guest appearances from Juliana Hatfield (bass and vocals), Rick James, and even Johnny Depp (who appeared in the title track's music video) added layers to the collaborative spirit . --- ## Cultural Impact and Legacy ### Commercial Performance The album initially struggled to find its audience. Its breakthrough came through the unexpected success of the "Mrs. Robinson" cover—recorded in two hours in Germany to commemorate *The Graduate*'s 25th anniversary. Atlantic Records tacked it onto reissues despite Dando's objections ("It wasn't a very respectful cover... it sullied [the album]") . The single became a Top 20 hit in the UK and Australia, pushing the album to gold status . ### Critical Reception *Ray* has aged remarkably well. Pitchfork awarded it 8.4/10, and retrospective reviews consistently praise its "joyous" spirit and "30 minutes of guitar-pop perfection" . Consequence of Sound described the title track as "among the best releases of the decade (if not beyond)" . ### Influence The album helped define the "slacker pop" aesthetic of the early '90s—melodic, slightly detached, yet emotionally vulnerable. Its influence can be traced through subsequent indie-pop and alternative rock, with critics comparing its brilliance to The Kinks, early Undertones, and Wipers . Everett True described it as capturing "what it's like to live hard and fast and loose and happy with likeminded buddies, fuelled by a shared love for similar bands and drugs and booze and freedom" . --- ## Pros and Cons ### Strengths | Aspect | Assessment | |--------|------------| | **Songcraft** | Economical, perfectly formed pop songs that "leave you wanting more" | | **Emotional Resonance** | Deceptively light songs carry genuine pathos and vulnerability | | **Vocal Performance** | Dando's "warm, sometimes slightly wistful and bittersweet vocal" conveys heartfelt sincerity rather than detached irony | | **Production** | The Robb Brothers' approach lets the songs breathe while maintaining energy | | **Brevity** | At ~30 minutes, the album is "short and sweet" with no filler | | **Collaborative Chemistry** | Juliana Hatfield's contributions and the Sydney scene influence add unique texture | ### Weaknesses | Aspect | Assessment | |--------|------------| | **"Mrs. Robinson"** | The forced inclusion "sullied" the album's artistic coherence; Paul Simon reportedly hated the cover | | **Uniformity** | Some critics note the album's consistency borders on sameness—"playing the same song over and over again" | | **Lightness** | Contemporary detractors viewed it as "soulless jangly indie pop" or "REM at home"—a backlash against grunge that stripped away emotion | | **Context Dependency** | The album's charms are deeply rooted in its early-'90s moment; some listeners find it hasn't aged as well as grunge contemporaries | | **Live Inconsistency** | Dando's subsequent struggles with addiction meant the band could never reliably reproduce the album's magic on stage | --- ## Conclusion *It's A Shame About Ray* stands as a singular achievement—a brief, perfect snapshot of Evan Dando's songwriting peak before celebrity and addiction derailed his trajectory. It captures the "strangely cheerful malaise" of early '90s alternative rock, blending punk energy with acoustic intimacy, confessional lyrics with catchy hooks . The album's genius lies in its contradictions: it's a "druggy album" that sounds like sunshine; a collection of two-minute pop songs that carry surprising emotional weight; a document of aimlessness that demonstrates remarkable focus and craft. As one critic noted, it "can make all seem well in the world" for 30 minutes, even as it hints at the "mess that Evan Dando would soon become" . Thirty years later, it remains "a time capsule" of a specific moment in alternative rock—a moment when jangle-pop could sit comfortably alongside grunge, when vulnerability didn't require distortion, and when a song about a disappearing man named Ray could feel like the most important story in the world .

Lovable, accessible punk. They make me want to smoke some pot and go skating. Their cover of Mrs. Robinson joins the rarified air of excellent S&G covers.

Great cover of "Mrs. Robinson" on this album (or at least the later versions of it). I didn't listen to every single track very closely, but it was another album that I really enjoyed in the background throughout the day. Despite the fact that I was mostly listening to this album in the background, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter's slide guitar playing absolutely grabbed my attention on "Hannah & Gabi." I have to appreciate an album with at least a little variety across all the tracks. I also really liked some of the interesting open chords used in "Bit Part" — they sound a bit like the kind of open and suspended chords that are used in today's math/prog rock.

Love the 90s rock sound. The Mrs. Robinson cover is great.

Digging this. Very nostalgic, very 90s sounding. Really liked the simplicity, and just raw vibes throughout. Definitely ends on a high note with the addition of the Mrs. Robinson cover. I really appreciate music that can transport you to the time in which it was made. This gives that window in some odd way, like it just exuded this energy, flashbacks to what it must have felt to listen to this on release date. (It was a little bit before my time). Although I missed listening to it back when it was released. I am glad this popped up as a little underrated gem on the list. This could easy fall into the river of albums that sit somewhere in the middle at a 3. But I personally think it deserves a little more love than it gets.

bom eh isso aí né. indiezim power pop com umas guitarrinhas até que interessantes não tem nada demais. mas eh gostosim no azeite. bão pra botar e ir trabaiá, fazer uma coisa chata, sei lá. eh bacana o cover deles de mrs robinson trás memórias. gosto mto!!!

Excellent 90s vibe. Fast pop to slow, lamenting ballads. Great encapsulation of the decade in alternative.

Приятненькая альтернатива из 90х, которая хорошо и интересно звучит, но не особо запоминается.

sweet blast from the past, I remember we loved this album when it came out, just the right amt. of riffs and angst mixed w the right amt. of melodic loveliness. Everybody dissed them and Evan Dando, but listening more than 30yrs later was a pleasure! Not Suede - that can stay in the vaults TYVM..

Sometimes you get the album you need. No idea how this all works so well but it does. It just works. It's near perfect pop with just enough 90s thrown in. Bravo.

This album is a time machine back to the 90's, and I am shameless when I say that I love it for that. I've never heard of The Lemonheads, and after the lull of albums I've had my hopes were at an all-time low here, especially with alt rock always giving me pause. But the first tracks were way more fun than I anticipated. It's poppier than most alt rock I've heard, which of course leans more into my preferences. There's almost a bit of ska mixed in here, or at least whatever element of 90's music also leeched over into ska. Sure it's not perfect or dripping with heavy, emotional themes or lyrics like some of the highly-renowned grunge and alt rock bands of the time, but there are more songs on this album that I'd listen to again than in all of the four Radiohead albums I've listened to so far combined. 4.5/5 Highlights: Confetti It's a Shame About Ray My Drug Buddy Alison's Starting to Happen Frank Mills Mrs. Robinson

I liked this more than I thought I would. Easy listening early 90's alt/indie.

me gusto

Woah, surprising off the bat - upbeat, theme songy start. upbeat folk rock? really easy listening, good road trip music, feels like a soundtrack to a show for sure. Better than I was expecting, 4/5

Great energy, quirky little album. Also brings back memories for me, so there is probably a half star nostalgia bonus.

Suuuuper easy listen holyyyy. Sounds like the soundtrack to like… one tree hill or the OC or something. Chill 90‘s show filmed on film.

Not bad, nothing that particularly stands out to me

What a find! This is the kind of experience I was looking for when I started this musical journey. This album is such a distillation of the early 90s. It feels so homey, so comfortable. Like it's April 1993, you and your best buds and maybe your girlfriend are riding your bikes over to the lake after school and this is playing from someone's portable jukebox. I absolutely love the nostalgic feelings that exude from the carefree lyrics, the Smiths-esque guitar, and that organ that pops up every now and again. The song lengths are all so short but it's paced pretty well in terms of upbeat, faster tempos and slowing things down. Ending on their recognizable cover of "Mrs. Robinson" was a nice touch, too. Too bad about their singer being a POS, but it doesn't take away from how good the album was.

Classic alt. This was great

This just feels really cozy in this low-key, quietly sad way, and for some reason it hit me as weirdly nostalgic even though I don’t have any real history with it. It’s super understated emotionally, like it never fully lets you in, but that kind of works in its favour. The short songs fly by and honestly make it easier to sink into rather than feeling rushed. Lyrically it’s simple and honest, with little lines that catch you off guard instead of trying to be deep. Sonically it’s pure early ’90s slacker-indie charm. By the end I wasn’t blown away, but it just sat with me and is quietly great and very easy to come back to.

This was great from start to finish

Oh, hell yeah. This album is in my power pop wheelhouse. Loved it when it came out and it has improved with age. They were better than most of their 90's peers because of their melodicism and Evan Dando's voice and songwriting. Juliana Hatfield was also a vital part of the band, contributing solid bass and background vocals. Not quite a 5 star album because there are some lesser songs on the second half. It's crazy that the fantastic cover of "Mrs. Robinson" wasn't on the original album but they put it out as a single and added it to the album as a bonus track. Love this one and I didn't realize how much I missed it.

Good pop; I esp liked the cover of Frank Mills, a song I used to audition with back in the day.

Enjoyed this one more than I could imagine. Heard Johnston, heard Neutral Milk, heard the bands like Everclear that my best friend from highschool used to put after school. Never really realized they made that cover of Mrs. Robinson which I loved as a kid. Nothing trascendental but it was a fine listen.

Прикольный альбом из 90-х, никогда ранее не слышала об этой группе. Добавила 1 трек в избранное, но каких-то особенных эмоций альбом мне не выдал

I don't know what style of rock I'd call this. It's nothing groundbreaking, but it's easy to listen to, definitely easy to come back to. It's also just good music. I might check out more from this band in the future

See those little black boxes? They are called telephones. I’m gonna let you in on a little secret about these telephones. They’re not gonna dial themselves! Okay? Without you, they’re just worthless hunk of plastic. Like a loaded M16 without a trained Marine to pull the trigger. And in the case of the telephone, it’s up to each and every one of you, my highly trained Strattonites, my killers. My killers who will not take no for an answer! My fucking warriors who’ll not hang up the phone, until their client either buys or fucking dies! Let me tell you something. . I’ve been a rich man, and I’ve been poor man. And I choose rich every fucking time. Cause, At least as a rich man, when I have to face my problems, I show up in the back of a limo wearing a $2000 suit …and $40,000 gold fuckin’ watch! Now, if anyone here thinks I’m superficial or materialistic. Go get a job at fucking McDonald’s, because that’s where you fucking belong! But, before you depart this room full of winners, I want you to take a good look at the person next to you, go on. Because sometime in the not-so-distant future, you’re pullin’ up to a red light in your beat-up old fucking Pinto, and that person’s gonna pull up right alongside you in a brand new Porsche, with their beautiful wife by his side, whose got big voluptuous tits. And who will you be next to? Some disgusting wilder beast with three days of razor-stubble in a sleeveless moo-moo, crammed in next to you with a carload full of groceries from the fucking Price Club! That’s who you’re gonna be sitting next to. So, you listen to me and you listen well. Are you behind, on your credit card bills? Good. Pick up the phone and start dialing. Is your landlord ready to evict you? Good. Pick up the phone and start dialing. Does your girlfriend think you’re a fucking loser? Good. Pick up the phone and start dialing! I want you to deal with your problems, by becoming rich! All you have to do today …is pick up that phone, and speak the words that I have taught you. And I’ll make you richer than the most powerful CEO of the United States of fucking America. I want you to go out there, and I want you to RAM Steve Madden stock down your clients’ throats. Till they fucking choke on it till they choke on it and buy 100,000 shares! That’s what I want you to do. You’ll be ferocious! You’ll be relentless! You’ll be telephone fucking terrorists! Now, let’s knock this Motherfucker out of the park!

I love this record. Evan Dando is such a good songwriter. His lyrics are so quirky, at times dark, but always with a charm that is undeniable. The playing is great and I have a soft spot for this kind of sound: grungy electric guitar, acoustic guitar and melodic bass.

Solid catchy pop rock. Sort of like pavement but less experimental. I like this kind of straightforward evocative songwriting, even while acknowledging it has its limitations. It’s a shame about Ray always makes me feel something, as does my drug buddy. Maybe because I remember Sean’s dad randomly loving the lemonheads so this reminds me of childhood. This is a nitpick but with such spare instrumentation, I think a lot of these songs could use a heavier bottom end. The bass could ground these light songs more and make them hit a little harder.

I like this. It’s not changing my world view or anything, but happy to listen to it.

This is just a genuinely good time from start to finish, but it stays in this polite, jangly pocket instead of fully letting loose. Like, laid back slacker vibe but with actual polish. Spins: 1 Playlist Additions - It's A Shame About Ray - Rudderless - My Drug Buddy - Mrs. Robinson

It’s a Shame About Ray feels instantly familiar to this Gen-Xer, even though I’d never really heard The Lemonheads before (aside from the “Mrs. Robinson” cover). The music is loose and jangly, packed with solid hooks and an easygoing momentum. Evan Dando’s delivery is noticeably detached—almost aloof—floating above the driving rhythms in a way that feels both cool and slightly removed. The whole album carries the vibe of a band playing a frat-party set that’s better than it has any right to be, with lyrics that swing between genuinely poignant and casually funny. It’s an enjoyable listen, and its charm lies in how effortlessly it wears its melancholy.

It was good but sounded like 100 other bands from the same time

Concise, cute, cocky, candescent, captivating, catchy, cathartic, charming, cheeky, cheerful, childlike, comely and cuddly. The cover of Mrs Robinson was a bit of a distraction from a great compilation of short original songs that are over too soon but is kinda perfect for that. A fan of it at the time and still sounds wonderful. And Dando was kinda cute too (& a lot of the other c words). Personally I prefer it ending as originally intended with Frank Mills.

i love loser music

what an absolute banger. had so much listening to this faves: rockin' stroll, confetti and it’s a shame about ray

Some pretty solid 90s alt rock here

I’m glad this album is included in the list because I feel like the Lemonheads are underrated. At least nowadays they’ve been kind of forgotten and lost among their peers of 90s indie/alt rock. But the Lemonheads are really good and worth remembering!

4.5

Nice jangly power pop. 4 stars

4.5

'Mrs. Robinson' is a bit of a hard carry for an otherwise pretty alright album.

Kinda sounded like a a budget Elvis Costello. Good song writing, a fun cover. Solid album.

Wasn’t familiar with a band, though I’m sure I’d heard their “Mrs. Robinson” cover before. This was pretty good! They must have taken a page out of the Beatles’ playbook, because almost every track is short and to the point. The longest track is the aforementioned cover. The titular song is really good, though I actually liked the demo version more as it’s slower and gloomier. All in all, pretty enjoyable! 4/5

I loved, loved, LOVED this one in high school. I think it's mostly held up, though it feels very of its time. 4 stars for nostalgia.

Wow never really heard these guys, but its some great catchy pop stuff, with heavier backings, a bit like the instrumentation of the teenage fanclub or something, but less Scottish. Yeah I don't think the instrumentals are that unique for the time, but its still good fun and quite catchy, which I think is sometimes all you need to do. I also quite like the male/female vocals, and the acoustic layers with the other electric guitars are good, makes it feel a bit like the Smiths, very jangly. Not too much else to say, just some solid songs, singers pretty great as well and quite varied. And the acoustic demos are cool as well. Favourite songs: rockin' stroll, confetti, its a shame about Ray, rudderless, my drug buddy, a bit part, kitchen, ceiling fan in my spoon, Frank Mills, Mrs.Robinson. Overall around 7/10

It happened that I've listened to the album along with the The Charlatans album 'Tellin' stories'. 90s, alternative/pop rock, etc. Indeed, they seemed to be similar. But the level of energy in this one is so much higher! Makes you feel younger. 'Mrs. Robinson' - my fav, of course.

This album is a personal favorite. From what I can tell, it's a bit divisive; people either love it as a '90s dark-pop masterpiece from a tortured personality or see it as corny fluff from an annoying drug addict. I tend to lean toward the former, but I'm prejudiced here. My friends and I listened to this album constantly when I was in high school. We even called each other "Drug Buddy," even though we were just quirky theater kids who never did any drugs and didn't realize that the song was about heroin. And our misunderstanding is indicative of how this album gets overlooked for the brilliant work it is. The songs have clear pop sensibilities that could easily appeal to high schoolers, but closer listens reveal a depth that isn't immediately obvious. The songs on this record express a deep sadness in the most mundane way, the way many of us experience it in daily life. Take the lyric "Guess I don't wanna die" from "Rudderless"; the whole of a man's will to continue to live, the sum of his entire existence, is reduced to a shrug. Life moves on. It can be a meaningless slog, but we don't want it to end. I like this juxtaposition between simple, happy-sounding songs that reveal a darkness beneath. I also like Juliana Hatfield's contributions on this album, too, especially her backing vocals, which lend a further innocence and sweetness to Dando's voice. She is by turns a companion, a literary foil, and a conscience. One more point. I don't like the latter addition of the cover of "Mrs. Robinson." I know it ended up being the biggest single from the record and probably helped sell more copies than any other song, but it was never meant to be part of the album, and it sounds tacked on, which, of course, it was. This album is not a masterpiece, but it holds a unique place in my heart and has stuck with me for decades. Four stars.

Decent old school rock. Suprising good

I feel conflicted about rating this album, simply because I already love it and have nostalgic feelings about it and love the genre as a whole. At the same time, it feels sort of weightless - like it's wonderful but not essential. But the rapid-fire songwriting feels equal parts tossed-off and crafted (probably the exact effect Dando et al. are going for), and there are constant sugary pleasures here - most of these songs could be singles, or at the very least in the background of a Friends episode. And as far as Steinian statements about the slacker zeitgeist go, "ship without a rudder's like a ship without a rudder's like a ship without a rudder" is pretty damn good. I don't know if it's a great album but I like it better than a lot of great albums.

For some reason, I never got around to listening to this one, despite my borderline obsession with 90s alt rock and grunge. I only knew the Mrs. Robinson cover. The whole album is great though - short and snappy, and very catchybin places. Especially liked the title track, Confetti, My Drugs Friend and Alison's Starting to Happen.

Enjoyed, short on listening time, but tidy.

Mostly a solid, fun album. “My Drug Buddy” is a total vibe killer and doesn’t fit at all. IMO, it’s the only thing keeping this from being a 5/5. Why artists always have slow, boring songs in the middle of otherwise upbeat albums is beyond me. Everything else is very good, this album is otherwise a great time.

wait this was actually flames

It’s A Shame About Ray is one of those albums that sneaks up on you with how effortlessly good it is. It’s short, breezy, and packed with catchy melodies, but there’s a bittersweet edge running through it that gives it real staying power. The title track is the emotional centerpiece, a perfect mix of jangly guitars and quiet melancholy, while “Confetti” and “Rudderless” show off the band’s knack for writing sharp, memorable hooks without overcomplicating things. What makes the album work so well is its balance. It feels loose and casual, like the songs were tossed off without too much fuss, but underneath that is a real sense of craft. Evan Dando’s vocals walk that line between laid-back and vulnerable, giving the songs a lived-in charm. The production is clean but never glossy, letting the guitars and melodies breathe. Even the cover of “Mrs. Robinson,” added later for the reissue, fits surprisingly well with the mood. It’s A Shame About Ray is over before you know it, but that’s part of its magic. It doesn’t try to be grand or profound, it just delivers a string of perfectly formed songs that stick with you. It’s warm, sad, and easy to fall into, the kind of record that feels like a familiar friend after only a couple of listens.

Not my thing

I love me some good old indie rock. Lemonheads for some reason skirted around me. This is good stuff, though I might have liked it better if I knew it more.

4.5 Man I really love this album and it's hard for me not to give it a 5 as I could listen to this album any week of the year and enjoy it. It's so smooth it seems like it's a 15-minute album (it's 33:28 to include the cover of Ms. Robinson but exclude bonus materials.) Have to say two songs (eponymous and the cover) almost warrants a 5 but I was also somewhat surprised to see this album (one of my personal favorites) on a list of the most influential considering some they skipped. Don't be too upset Lemonheads - I love you just trying to be fair to 'others' :-P

Classic rock n roll Not as in classic rock As in it’s like classic And it’s rock music Sounds like it should be in a horrid Henry movie tbh Kind of teenage dirtbag style but not really Gets a bit more mopey at Rudderless Nice shouty bit at the start of bit part Frank mills feels like it has lore Mrs Robinson is soooo nostalgic even though I’ve never heard it before Shakey ground is very chill and a lot more indie than the rest thus far Title track starts like a Beatles song The my drug buddy demo version sounds a little more depressing than the actual version ngl A fan of kitchen demo it’s very basic I love it

Snarky

Quintessential for this group! Better than I remember the album too. Fondly remember watching Evan Dando live.

this was actually so good i love mrs robinson and didn’t know that was by them!!! enjoyed listening to them more a lot

Solid 90s alt. The title track is the standout but Rudderless is also great and of course can’t forget that Robinson cover. The whole thing is cohesive.

Great early alternative/indie rock. Catchy and melodic. Ushered in a wave of bands like Soul Asylum, Gin Blossoms and others. A high 4.

Elvis Costello starts an indie rock band… In all fairness this is unique and foundational for what would become a massive genre. It even feels a little emo at times. Has elements of so many things I enjoy, while also being little dated in the ripped jeans and flannel 90s.

Another album I know very well. Short and excellent.

Nice punky kinda feel. Sure, why not.

Dope asf, pleasantly suprised

classic genx

Nice

Sounded really old school. Reminded me of American Pie and a youth I didn't get to experience.

Very Good!

Actually really enjoyed this one. Listened to the 2022 remaster on Spotify, and thought the demo versions we're a little stronger, but that's more a personal taste thing than anything

Really pleasantly surprised by this! Thought it was great, paced really well and a solid bunch of tracks. Has a fair bit of variety and can hear those punk rock roots. Would definitely go buy this if I heard the Mrs Robinson cover on college radio.

Alternative rock. Pretty good. Simple but enjoyable.

Feels like a missing ingredient for the blue album.

I really enjoyed it!

I will base my review on the track list of the original release of this album. Normally, I make a statement like this for an album review on this journey without any hesitation. The problem here is that I am excluding what could be considered the gateway track for this particular band. I heard about the Lemonheads because of their cover of Simon & Garfunkel's "Mrs. Robinson", which was added to subsequent re-releases of their breakthrough record, It's a Shame About Ray. I can imagine that for many people, this is the one song they will recognize from the group, much to the chagrin of frontman Evan Dando and original songwriter Paul Simon. It's a shame, pun intended, because the album this cover is retroactively associated with is pretty solid. This is an intriguing blend of jangle pop and grunge, where the guitar tones are bright and crunchy at the same time, as Evan and company blaze through a rich slice of bouncing tunes about finding bliss that ebb from character stories to strifes for bliss amidst the drug-riddled reckless abandon. There's a lot of Evan's personality that shined through in his performance and abstract lyrics, as bassist Juliana Hatfield and drummer David Ryan provided a strong foundation for these songs to be built upon. Opener "Rockin' Stroll", the title track, "Rudderless", and "Alison's Starting to Happen" were personal highlights that showcased the cheery angst this record employed throughout. If anything, my only complaint is that this record is rather short. Clocking in at under a half-hour, there were multiple instances where songs could have been expanded. I can see why people would favor inclusion of the "Mrs. Robinson" cover in later releases, yet I feel that "Frank Mills" still works as a closer. Perhaps more time in the studio would have helped in fleshing out some of these tracks. Still, I consider It's a Shame About Ray to be quite a pleasant outing for The Lemonheads. It's good to know that they are worth more than the one cover song.

Always been a damn solid album. Thankful for the re-release too because I love this version of Mrs. Robinson! Great album!

own

Infectious, energetic, irreverent, and stoned. The band sounds great and the songs are strong, to which you add the dulcet tones of Evan Dando.

Day552 - adam duritz had a podcast and really turned me on to the lemonheads and this album in particular. the title track has been in my playlist for a few years now

Love this album

Imagine Simon & Garfunkel stripped down to their basic chords, throw in some gain, add bass and drums, and replace the angelic voice of Garfunkel with a weary, drug-addled, morning-after rasp - more Gram Parsons than Art Garfunkel’s angelic choirboy tenor - and you’ve got the sound of It’s a Shame About Ray. It’s Simon & Garfunkel via The Replacements or Big Star. Wondering if I mean that in a positive way? Hell yeah. Sometimes all you need are great, hooky tunes, an electric guitar, and lyrics about human relationships, alienation, or drugs. If it were that simple to stir up an album that works as well as this one, why don’t we have more of them? Just listen to: Confetti, the title track, Alison’s Starting to Happen, Kitchen, My Drug Buddy. The melodies are saccharine - in the best possible way. It’s A Shame About Ray is mostly pristine early-’90s Boston jangle/alt-rock/underground pop bangers, with L.A.’s sublight baked into the fabric. The tunes are insanely catchy, the runtime is concise, and it’s rough around the edges. In short: it’s pretty close to perfect.

Instantly recognized two of their songs "It's a Shame About Ray" and "Mrs. Robinson" but never put the songs with the same band nor could I have come up with the band name. Other than Drug Buddy all the other songs were really good. Guess I should have listened to this sooner!

You know, I really, truly enjoyed listening to this album. It's right up my alley, and basically each song is fun and catchy, and I honestly think quite good. My main issue is, I wish they fleshed out some of these songs a little more -- each track being only like 2.5 minutes long really makes everything just sort of drift by, and there's no chance for things to land as much as they could. Edit: the more I play this album, the more I really like it. It's really, endlessly listenable. Fave songs: - Confetti - It's A Shame About Ray - Rudderless - Bit Part - Alison's Starting to Happen - Frank Mills (shoutout musical theatre!) - Mrs. Robinson

4 out of 5. This was a pleasant surprise and a great collection of the 90's rock sound.

That's exactly the sound i loved in my teenage years, along with all the britpop. Not too much bangers, still enjoyable.

Really enjoyable listen. Album had great flow. Flagged about 5 tracks and will return for a repeat listen. 3.5/5

Man, this one still holds up. I played it routinely on my college radio program throughout ‘92-93, and it sits up there with Westerberg, Soul Asylum, and similar as one of the more prominent albums ushering in the alt indie rock scene. It didn’t hurt that pretty boy Dando was voted into People’s “50 Most Beautiful” list. No doubt contributing to his cameo in 1994’s “Reality Bites” film. I was fan of Evan and crew since 1989’s album Lick that featured a really good cover of Suzanne Vega’s song “Luka”, and was lucky enough to see them at their sweet n salty candy peak a year after this release on the Come On Feel… tour. Will always have a soft spot for these guys.

The Mrs Robinson cover was all I remembered from this.

This came out when I was 17, and is very much of its time so it really reminds me of my youth. It is by no means outstanding, but it’s perfectly good pop, and I enjoyed it.

I grew up one town over from Julianna HatfieId (I'm 3 yrs younger). She was the coolest kid around. I was in college in Boston when this album came out. The Lemonheads were just a part of life. It seemed like everyone in Boston had been in this band at one point it another. Listening to this album is like having a vivid flashback of my 20s.

The amount of shock I had seeing the Lemonheads on this project was massive. You mean the guys that did that cover of Mrs. Robinson got on here? So like, are the Ataris and Alien Ant Farm here too? Because apparently being one-hit wonders where the “one-hit” is a cover is in vogue here. Actually all jokes aside, I actually think that cover is the weakest part of the album. It’s really just a standard rock cover of a classic song. Just play it faster and louder. I really have no idea how it got that popular. The actual album itself isn’t bad. It lacks variety and sounds pretty much like a lot of other 90’s rock bands, but the vibes are there. At about 30 minutes, you can do worse. If anything, it a neat reminder that there was more to rock in the 90’s outside of grunge. These guys honestly remind me of the Gin Blossoms. Their sound has that same catchy energy. God I would kill for New Miserable Experience to be on here. Anyway, this technically could be a 3, but I’m a sucker for this, so 4 it is. Favorite track (outside of Mrs. Robinson): It’s A Shame About Ray Other hits: Confetti, My Drug Buddy, Rudderless, Rockin’ Stroll, Frank Mills

Some article called them ‘bubble grunge’. I agree. I saw Evan perform this album a few years ago with Juliana Hatfield (and musicians who were jot original Lemonheads). It was quite a surreal experience to watch two 60-year olds on stage singing songs that had meaning to them when they were in their 20s. And it was equally as surreal to see their 20-year-old selves coming through. And also, Evan Dando looked like he hated being on stage every single minute.

This is nostalgia bait for me. I wasn't alive when this came out but it still feels like exactly like the first few years of my life. Not that I remember it at all. Just hits the feels. Good album all around. Just nice pop rock stuff. A little tiny bit of punk rock edge. Very very good stuff. Not perfect but pretty damn good.

A classic

I actually really enjoyed this.

Satans She-Males covered Its A Shame About Ray so it’s special.

average but feels pretty good

Really loved this, great sound from them. Only thing stopping me from giving it a 5 is how similar-sounding some of the tracks are, would’ve liked to see some different stuff in there

An above average rock album. I don't usually listen to bonus tracks, but I was curious about Mrs. Robinson, and it turned out to be maybe the best track. I might have even heard it before, not sure. I'll give this album another listen in the future. A low 4/5.

One I really liked from back in the day, but haven’t listened to in a very long time. I loved it! Right up my music alley! Power chords and harmonies. Would give 4 1/2 stars if possible, but I'll call it a 4.

I forgot how good this album is. It's very good. Favorite songs are "Confetti", "It's A Shame About Ray" and "Mrs. Robinson". I enjoyed the demos.

Loving this sort of soft punk rock vibe, remind me of social distortion

I never took The Lemonheads seriously back in the day, owing I think to the band's name, which I thought was a joke, and their devastatingly handsome, goofy lead singer. Which is too bad, because holy crap Evan Dando can write songs! I hear lots of good echoes here, including The Replacements, The Smithereens, R.E.M., Elvis Costello and Big Star. The update of "Mrs. Robinson" is great but so are "My Drug Buddy," "Rudderless" and "Hannah & Gabi."

Better than I expected, though all the tacked-on demos of the expanded / anniversary edition added nothing. This record came out when I was doing college radio , I remember playing a few cuts from it but not hearing the whole thing . Then they had a huge single hit with the Mrs. Robinson cover, which had to be tacked on to a re-release of this record soon after. Because I didnt think the cover was all that, I ignored this record at the time, which was a shame. Good songs, nice production.

I did not realize Juliana Hatfield played bass on this. It's a good album. I don't think I ever gave it a full listen before.

I have a soft spot for fuzzy punkish bands and this is one of them. They sound really solid, play their stuff really well, dudes voice is close to being too whiny but doesn’t cross the line. This wasn’t an album I’ll ever put back on again but it is one I enjoyed and would have fond memories of if someone put it on or talked about it.

This is very good - let it loop several times and enjoyed it all the way through.

another album im not sure i rly understand the inclusion of for this lists goals but. fsr it kind of made me emotional ghjsg. maybe i just havent heard this kind of music in a while and it v intrinsically feels like one of my home bases, so its just a long-dormant itch being soothed. in any case its clearly quality power pop, theres something so distinct about it that i just cant put my finger on...somewhere between the songwriting sensibilities (very economic) and arrangement sensibilities (making everything sound much bigger than the track lengths would imply, maybe evan dando's slightly weird vocals too. idk. great album, tho for such a short record i wish the songs were a bitttt more consistent...but the sound rules and the highs are transcendental

this was awesome

Well, this is yet another group that I thought I had never heard before, but it turns out that I had heard the cover of Mrs. Robinson, just didn’t realize who the band was. Anyway, I really liked this album, and if I had heard it back in the day, it would’ve been something I would’ve played very regularly. I’m sorry I wasn’t exposed to it back then, but I’m saving it and will listen to it again in the future. It gets four solid stars from me.

I enjoyed this more than I expected. Fave Tracks: Rudderless, My Drug Buddy 3.6/5

Pretty good 90s alt. Mrs. Robinson cover is a classic.

Reminds me of summer in the 90s, I love it. Surprisingly it's biggest hit, the cover of Mrs. Robinson is its weakest track.

Welcome surprise

Not too bad

This album feels like a 90s coming of age rom com movie. VHS. Thin wirey headphones with fuzzy ear pads. I wonder how professional critics separate their objectivity from their nostalgia. Not sure I believe it's possible. I didn't grow up with this one but I didn't have to, it's pure essence. Was a 100% montage.

I was impressed. This album has a garage punk sound that is a good blend of 90s and today. Songs like Rudderless, Bit Part, Alison's starting to happen are impressive for how timeless they sound. I could see this album growing on me even more with time.

Nice, really genuine pure rock vibe, dig it. But not something I’d listen to consistently

This was great. It honestly just sounded like 1992 to me. I was surprised to look it up and see that it actually came out in 1992! It was a simple nice album, took me back to a specific place and time.

Very good

Enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would. I always knew and liked their cover of "Mrs. Robinson" but hadn't listened to anything else by them. This is a really solid album top to bottom. Favorite songs are probably "Rockin' Stroll," "It's A Shame About Ray," and "My Drug Buddy," in addition to the "Mrs. Robinson" cover. This left a little something to be desired at times, but overall this is a great listen and worthy of its place on the list.

Honestly, it's a decent album that captures the sound of the early 90s well. Mix one part Soul Asylum with one part R.E.M. and this is what you get. I like it, but I'm a fan of the sound.

This is fun. the sound is the same throughout the track but its got the 90's montage vibe, that is fun.

Decent indie album

Guter 90s Indie-Rock. Hat mir gefallen.

I really enjoyed this! Why have rock bands like this have all but vanished? It’s fun, upbeat and very 90s. Added a few songs to my playlist, including a cover of “Mrs. Robinson” that I enjoyed stoned in bed tonight.

"It's A Shame About Ray" has a sound typical of rock bands of the time and could be considered a generic album because of that, but it's not. Although the theme is not at all sweet, this could be considered a comfortable album. It could be part of any teen TV series of the time like "One Tree Hill" and "Dawson's Creek". The vocalist's vocal delivery is the highlight of the album, without a doubt.

Love the Lemonheads

If this is the only Lemonheads album on this list, you chose wrong. It should have been Lick. But as far as It's a Shame About Ray is concerned it's a good solid album. I think it's diminished by the fact that after the record companies got a bunch of free money in the 90s for re-releasing albums on CD that fans rebought, they signed EVERYBODY. Unfortunately, that includes bands that were in The Lemonheads' wheel-house ... some better, most worse.

Just solid 90's pop rock all around, good tunes for the morning! The cover of "Mrs Robinson" was not on the original album tracklist, but that's how I ended my listen.

And **today** in "Oh, hey, it's **that** album cover..." Turned out that reading the top-rated review of this album before I listened to it wasn't a good idea. Because it evoked teen-age slackers on a college campus, all I could picture hearing this music was a teen movie that never existed. Like, my opinions of this album really aren't any more complicated than that. These songs sound like they should be on a soundtrack that's praised even today for it's "cool, alternative" taste, despite retrospective assessments that deem the film itself "problematic" or something. And I don't even mean that as a dig; I've seen 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU in the last month, and that has a pretty good soundtrack. Same goes for CLUELESS, which I haven't seen lately, but maybe I should see again at some point soon? I'unno. This is just really nice jangly, rockin' music. Nothing I was losing my mind over, but it's not like every album in the world has to. And, I mean, sure, most of them are pretty similar to each other, although to me that just means they're consistent. And there's this one song that has a very strong influence from country music, and I really loved that one. A good country song can jus' do it sometimes, y'know? Damn, that slide. Plus, hey, hey, hey, there's a rockin' cover of "Mrs. Robinson" on here as a bonus track, that, honestly, I might like a bit more than the original? It's nothing against Simon & Garfunkel, of course; I just really love how this one rocks. And it's the only one of these songs I've heard in a 90's movie — and WAYNE'S WORLD 2, at that. Go figure. All that, and the fact that it's too much above 30 minutes... Yeah, it's a 4 and a thumbs-up from me. I really didn't have much to say about it (only 345 words, not counting these); it's just plainly good and enjoyable. And, hey, it made me wanna watch CLUELESS again, so that's a plus. It's no shame about this album — I guess. I'unno.

Just some pretty damn good 90's Alternative, all around. 4.5 bumped down to 4.

I’m right at a 4. Wikipedia really shouldn’t call this grunge. It sets an expectation that immediately gets wiped away from the first strums of the guitar, and thankfully, settles into something that’s right down my alley – this is R.E.M. with the RPM turned up a bit, with a hint of Matchbox 20, the Goo Goo Dolls, or Counting Crows in there. There’s certainly some influence from grunge, especially in the guitar/percussion, but it’s not the driving sound/genre of the album, at least compared to what most people would call “90s grunge”. This is the sort of alt-rock that I have a lot of love for, specifically because it’s a bit on the poppier side of things; give me a good chorus, some strong melodies in the verses, some catchy enough repeatable lyrics, and blend it with a band that knows how to play the instruments they’re given, and you can’t lose in my eyes. This album doesn’t always click on all of those, but it clicks a LOT of the time. The main reason I’m at a 4 is because the album does sort of get a bit stale around the middle – the structure of “cool acoustics with heavy percussion” gets a bit overplayed, and the lyricism and vocals don’t overcome that stigma, specifically around tracks 5-7. They’re still fun listens, but they’re just not as compelling to me for whatever reason. The same applies to the last 2 tracks on the original release; that cover from the musical Hair feels rather strange as the “ending” of the album – the Mrs. Robinson cover on the rerelease remedies that, but that original finish would’ve been a bit strange in 1992, I think. Regardless, I did enjoy a lot of this – it’s right down my alley, and maybe with enough time, it could go up to a 5. For now, it’s a recommended 4, that feels like a bit of a “normal” cleanser to my ears after that Mothers of Invention album – that’s still a fine enough album, but I really needed something traditional today, and The Lemonheads came through. I gotta check out more from these guys, I think.

I was surprised by how much I liked this album. Also, I found this on the Lemonheads Wikipedia page and found it quite funny: "The band's frontman, Evan Dando, later told American Songwriter that he "hated" the song as well as its author and that its recording was only to promote a 25th anniversary home video release of The Graduate. He noted that Simon greatly disliked the cover, but Garfunkel was more favorable toward it." That tracks.

This was great. The rhythm guitar and drums are particularly good. The singer's voice is a little grating on some songs but quite nice on others. I don't think I'd listen to this on repeat, but a few songs on it are keepers for sure

Pretty good album. Great 90s vibe overall and a few really decent songs. Just crossed the line into low 4.

Solid album!

Loved the Demos more than the actual album. Really fun. Favorites are Kitchen or Bit Part.

This was a damn good album. I really enjoyed it from start to finish.

I like it, comfy guitar music, nothing groundbreaking, nothing stand out, but something clicked in my head - will listen again

Good solid album

I listened to the extended version with demos included, and I really liked the acoustic demo versions. I would probably give the demos a 4 and the album a 3. Being that the demos are stripped down renditions of the album I'll reach up to 4 on this.

This one falls into an interesting category for me. I don't think I needed to hear this before I died, but I still enjoyed this jangle rock album nonetheless. I only recognized the Mrs. Robinson cover, but actually enjoyed the other tracks more.

I like me my jangle rock. I enjoyed this but it wasn't love at first listen.

HL: "Bit Part", "Alison's Starting to Happen", "Rudderless", "Confetti" Rounds up to a 4 for being just so dang jangly and likeable

Nice

well bleach my jeans and call me Dando

Only listened to a couple of songs by the Lemonheads before but it's a shame they've passed me by, like half my favourite bands they are a punk band trying to sound as poppy and catchy as possible. First song was the best but it was all pretty good, didn't outstay it's welcome at all. Id prefer it slightly edgier but they've got a sound that works for them. Would like to hear more, 4.5.

Gran punk

I could see how this might get a little tiresome if it were long, but at barely over half an hour, it doesn't overstay its welcome. I like the title track a lot; i think it was a single. My Drug Buddy also good, and the cover of Mrs Robinson has some great bass playing. I think this merits a four.

Solid early-90's grunge album, lyrics that are very tight. Funny that Mrs. Robinson wasn't included on the original version, as that's the de facto 'hit' of this album. Will listen again.

First listen thru, I thought it was good but as it often happens the songs grew on me a bit more on the second listen. The Lemonheads glazed up the grunge on this release. The whole album plays like a soundtrack to a 90’s romcom and that isn’t meant as a dig, it’d be the soundtrack to a good 90’s romcom. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars

Fun loving music Laid back singing, sad lyrics Alluring combo

Aww, back in the day this was my Sunday morning after the Saturday night out, lying in bed chilling out/ Nice but not quite good enough for a 5

This was the perfect album for a chill Friday morning. I very much appreciated The Lemonheads when I was a teen, and I can still listen to this whole album so easily. This was one of only a few albums on this list where I’ve voluntarily picked the extended version.

this had some bangers, great listen

I don't think I've heard any of this album other than I have a vague recollection of hearing the Mrs. Robinson cover before. What an unexpected treat! This is the reason I'm doing this, to get to experience albums I find absolutely delightful that I otherwise would never have found.

A nice surprise! Quite enjoyed this one 4 ⭐️

Good 90s nostalgia here. I actually still listen to this album quite a bit. Nothing revolutionary, but always a good time.

Alt rock, kinda coastal/beachey lean

Dando probably wouldn't admit it, but a lot of "It's A Shame About Ray" feels as if it holds some debt to Tom Petty. i don't think their voices sound too similar, but they both maintain this spunk and small town jitteriness to their lyrics that can feel infectious at times. you could argue the album loses that energy over time, but i think it's mostly consistent, with a few highlights like "Confetti" and "Rudderless." overall, it's a solid, fun record. maybe it's a bit of a tragedy that the bonus cover tacked on at the end gets all the attention, but not cause it's bad -- just cause it made people think that was all there was to the Lemonheads.

joyful!

4.5 Wow what a surprising delight! I saw this come up yesterday and kinda rolled my eyes and was like “great another 90s alt rock bore that has nothing to say” but I LOVED THIS. Listened to it three times through yesterday! It is so much deeper than it appears! Delicate, beautiful songs, catchy hooks, so many things I like (airy girl voice on counterpoint), interesting covers (there’s a random song from HAIR on here?!?). I adored adored it!! Can’t wait to keep this downloaded and listen many more times.

Pretty good!

Great stuff

Quirky and charming, but rather too brief.

It has more good moments than bad

Classic 90s album. Never listened to these guys back in the day but it still makes me feel nostalgic. I enjoyed it.

Soft and wistful and I enjoy the album, but in the end does it stand out ahead of other 90s indie pop? Idk, but I still have some of the songs in my favourites list. And RIP to my friend Ray. Not who the song is about, but the song represents him in my mind. Miss you mate. Extra star for this song

Another Pleasant Surprise ...

It was actually fun. Mrs Robinson was cool, and the title track was enjoyable!

Simple but well done grungy alt rock. I liked the percussive elements of acoustic guitar as well as interesting progressions. A lot of it sounded pretty similar though, could use more variation. Favorite songs were: 3. It’s a shame about ray 4. Rudderless 8. Hannah and Gabi 13. Shaky ground 8/10

Great sound, some good songs. Not much in the way of staying power, but I'm glad it exists

The Lemonheads leerde ik kennen door m'n pa. Ik moet toegeven dat ik enkel Ms. Robinson en It's a Shame About Ray kende van dit album, maar ben blij dat ik den deze eens volledig heb uitgespeeld. Heerlijk 'slacker' album met toch een paar ontdekkinkjes bij die ik heb toegevoegd aan m'n playlists. 3.9

It's a shame I never listened to The Lemonheads as a teen. Kind of grungey, but with an acoustic edge that softens it and makes it feel more intimate and personable. The "Mrs Robinson" cover is good but incongruous with the rest of the album.

Pretty cool indie rock that I liked quite a bit.

Very pleasant record, close to full marks.

Great. Definitely would listen to the whole thing again anytime. Reminds me of the days of driving around with 1 cd in the car stereo just repeating over and over again.