Most Underrated Bands of the 90's

U2Fan ([email protected])
Sat, 14 Nov 1998 09:04:31 -0500

Ok, let's face it, we all know who the best band in the world is. But
there's another truth that we need to face, U2 are just way too slow in
releasing their new material. 2 to 3 years between new albums isn't healthy
for the fans, just look at the surge of inflammatory posts on Wire during
U2's periods of rest and relaxation.

In the interests of preserving mental health and well-being of U2 fans
worldwide, I'd like to present a new thread, Most Underrated Bands of the
90's. With the incessant release of amazingly poor music which is labeled
as "Top 40" or "mainstream" we need to work together to expose the really
talented bands, and save us all from some dreadfully poor decisions at our
local record shops.

I'll begin the thread with some of my favorite underrated bands which I'm
amazed don't get more respect, especially in the US. I'm going to restrict
these to bands which bare a fair resemblance musically and lyrically to U2.
They may not *sound* like U2, but their inspiration is certainly along the
same lines. I realize that people's musical taste varies to a *great*
extent, and I figure limiting my selections this way will give U2 fans a
greater chance of really enjoying some of my recommendations. Ok, enough
gibbering, here's my list:

1. Australia holds the greatest secret in the music world. Midnight Oil.
As far as consistenly writing catchy, thought provoking songs, this band is
only second to U2. They have similar political/social inspirations to our
favorite band, and it's really obvious in their style of songwriting. If
your knowledge of this group ends with "Beds are Burning" from '88 you have
some great material to catch up on. Start with "Earth And Sun and Moon",
you'll know where to go from there. They really write some *damn* good
songs. (I'm going to purchase their new disc "Redneck Wonderland" today, so
I can't vouch for how good it is. I have *high* expectations though).

2. My second choice is a band that has been around for about 5 years.
These guys played at a local club to a crowd of about 20 people a few years
back, and I still kick myself everyday for missing them. Tea Party from
Canada. Want a band that knows how to rock, check out "The Edges Of
Twilight" or "Transmission".

3. The singer of my third choice can barely speak English, but who cares,
these guys really kick ass. They're from Germany and have been around
since the early 90's. If you like intense rock with elements of techno (not
dance techno, more like U2's style of techno, dramatic "landscaping" if you
will) check out The Young Gods cd "Only Heaven". If you're disappointed by
this one, I can't help you. Some of their earlier discs lack consistency,
but still have some jewels to be discovered. Be aware that the singer's use
of English borders on comical at times, not purposely, but because of lack
of familiarity. I don't know if sane people do this, but sometimes I
imagine myself *owning* a radio station. I could imagine myself playing
"Only Heaven" to the deprived masses on a daily basis. I can't think of a
band that deserves to be exposed more than these guys.

4. Echo And The Bunnymen. Ok, the vocalist has an almost "lounge singer"
angle at times, but their newest cd "Evergreen" is really well written music
with some really catchy tunes. And their singles which support this cd have
some very cool b-sides, especially the live tracks. Be aware that this one
is NOT intense, driving rock and roll in any sense. Of the 4
recommendations, this one is the closest to pop music.

Alright, I'll start with those 4. As I dig through my collection I'll try
to post about some other bands that should be considered.

Ok, everyone, PLEASE, share your insights on your favorite underrated bands
so we can all maintain our mental stability until U2 releases their new cd,
*whenever* that may be.

STEVE!

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