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Genius + Love = Yo La Tengo cover

Genius + Love = Yo La Tengo

Yo La Tengo

Album 1996
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About this album

Sound: "A playful blend of lo-fi indie rock and experimental soundscapes that feels both intimate and expansive."

Where they were

Released in 1996, 'Genius + Love = Yo La Tengo' marked a significant moment for Yo La Tengo as their seventh studio album. This release came shortly after their breakthrough album, 'I Can Hear the Heart Beating as One,' solidifying their reputation in the indie rock scene. The band was evolving their sound while exploring more eclectic arrangements and textures.

Why it matters

'Genius + Love = Yo La Tengo' received critical acclaim, contributing to the band's status in the underground music movement. It showcased their ability to seamlessly blend various genres, influencing numerous indie artists that followed. The album reflects a distinctive era in mid-90s alternative rock, characterized by experimentation and lo-fi aesthetics.

Essential tracks

  • "Demons" — This track encapsulates the band's signature mix of melodic pop and abstract sound experimentation, making it a standout representation of their style.
  • "Speeding Motorcycle" — With its hauntingly beautiful melody and lyrical simplicity, this song highlights the emotional depth that defines much of Yo La Tengo's work.
  • "Somebody's Baby" — This track's infectious energy and catchy chorus exemplify the band's knack for creating memorable indie rock anthems.
  • "Fog Over Frisco" — The atmospheric instrumentation paired with layered vocals offers a glimpse into the band's innovative approach to songwriting during this period.

Release Date

September 1, 1996

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 Evanescent Psychic Pez Drop 2:48
  2. 2 Demons 3:18
  3. 3 Fog Over Frisco 3:46
  4. 4 Too Late 5:57
  5. 5 Hanky Panky Nohow 2:58
  6. 6 Something to Do 2:11
  7. 7 Ultra-Powerful Short Wave Radio Picks Up Music From Venus 1:32
  8. 8 Up to You 4:03
  9. 9 Somebody's Baby 3:38
  10. 10 Walking Away From You 5:58
  11. 11 Artificial Heart 3:00
  12. 12 Cast a Shadow 2:24
  13. 13 I'm Set Free 4:10
  14. 14 Barnaby, Hardly Working 3:54
  15. 15 Some Kinda Fatigue 7:38
  16. 16 Speeding Motorcycle 3:30

Disc 2

  1. 1 Nutricia 5:01
  2. 2 Her Grandmother's Gift 2:39
  3. 3 From a Motel 6 #2 4:29
  4. 4 Gooseneck Problem 0:04
  5. 5 Surfin' With the Shah 2:07
  6. 6 Ecstasy Blues 2:47
  7. 7 Too Much, Part I 1:18
  8. 8 Blitzkrieg Bop 2:18
  9. 9 One Self: Fish Girl 5:31
  10. 10 Enough 5:26
  11. 11 Drum Solo 0:08
  12. 12 From a Motel 6 #1 3:35
  13. 13 Too Much, Part II 0:21
  14. 14 Sunsquashed 26:20

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