About this album
Where they were
By the time 'I Am Not Afraid of You and I Will Beat Your Ass' was released in 2006, Yo La Tengo had already established themselves as stalwarts of the indie rock scene with a discography spanning over two decades. This album followed their acclaimed 2000 release 'And Then Nothing Turned Itself Inside-Out', showcasing their continued evolution and willingness to experiment with sound and structure.
Why it matters
The album received widespread critical acclaim, landing on numerous year-end lists and solidifying Yo La Tengo's reputation for genre-defying artistry. It peaked at number 129 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a notable entry into the mainstream while retaining their indie credibility, influencing a generation of musicians with its eclectic mix.
Essential tracks
- "Pass the Hatchet, I Think I’m Goodkind" — This opening track exemplifies the band’s adventurous spirit, blending an expansive structure with dynamic shifts that set the tone for the entire album.
- "Beanbag Chair" — With its catchy melody and playful lyrics, this track showcases Yo La Tengo's knack for combining whimsy with thoughtful songwriting.
- "Mr. Tough" — This song stands out for its infectious rhythm and clever lyrical wit, highlighting the band's ability to balance humor and introspection.
- "The Race Is On Again" — A standout among the more energetic tracks, it captures the band's eclectic influences while maintaining an engaging narrative thread.
- "The Story of Yo La Tango" — Closing out the album, this lengthy piece encapsulates the band's journey through layered instrumentation and reflective storytelling.
Release Date
September 12, 2006
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Pass the Hatchet, I Think I’m Goodkind 10:46
- 2 Beanbag Chair 3:02
- 3 I Feel Like Going Home 4:14
- 4 Mr. Tough 4:05
- 5 Black Flowers 4:28
- 6 The Race Is On Again 4:36
- 7 The Room Got Heavy 5:10
- 8 Sometimes I Don’t Get You 3:16
- 9 Daphnia 8:51
- 10 I Should Have Known Better 3:15
- 11 Watch Out for Me Ronnie 3:01
- 12 The Weakest Part 3:03
- 13 Song for Mahila 3:40
- 14 Point and Shoot 4:18
- 15 The Story of Yo La Tango 11:48
