spinsource
Log in Sign up
My Music Log in Sign up
Electr-O-Pura cover

Electr-O-Pura

Yo La Tengo

Album 1995
Log in to track this album

About this album

Sound: "A lush tapestry of dreamy melodies and experimental textures, swirling between lo-fi intimacy and expansive soundscapes."

Where they were

Released in January 1995, 'Electr-O-Pura' marked Yo La Tengo's sixth studio album and further established their reputation within the indie rock scene. Following the critical success of 'Painful' (1993), this album showcased their artistic evolution, blending pop sensibilities with avant-garde influences. The band was gaining traction and recognition, positioning themselves as influential figures amid the burgeoning alternative rock movement.

Why it matters

'Electr-O-Pura' received widespread acclaim from critics, reinforcing Yo La Tengo's status in the indie rock landscape. The album is notable for its creative experimentation, influencing a generation of musicians and earning a spot on numerous year-end lists, including ranked positions from 'The Village Voice'. Its unique blend of styles contributed to the broader acceptance of lo-fi aesthetics in mainstream music.

Essential tracks

  • "Decora" — As the opening track, 'Decora' establishes the album's dreamy atmosphere with its jangly guitars and introspective lyrics, encapsulating the band's signature sound.
  • "Flying Lesson (Hot Chicken #1)" — 'Flying Lesson' showcases the band's ability to weave together intricate melodies with layered instrumentation, creating an immersive listening experience that highlights their experimental edge.
  • "(Straight Down to the) Bitter End" — This track exemplifies Yo La Tengo's prowess in blending poignant lyrics with rich musical textures, culminating in an emotional crescendo that resonates deeply.
  • "Blue Line Swinger" — 'Blue Line Swinger' stands out with its extended improvisational section, illustrating the band's willingness to push boundaries while maintaining a captivating melodic core.

Release Date

January 1, 1995

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Decora 3:28
  2. 2 Flying Lesson (Hot Chicken #1) 6:43
  3. 3 The Hour Grows Late 3:08
  4. 4 Tom Courtenay 3:31
  5. 5 False Ending 0:58
  6. 6 Pablo and Andrea 4:18
  7. 7 Paul Is Dead 2:28
  8. 8 False Alarm 5:29
  9. 9 The Ballad of Red Buckets 4:02
  10. 10 Don’t Say a Word (Hot Chicken #2) 3:30
  11. 11 (Straight Down to the) Bitter End 4:00
  12. 12 My Heart’s Reflection 6:03
  13. 13 Attack on Love 1:53
  14. 14 Blue Line Swinger 9:18

Listen

Learn More

Wikipedia MusicBrainz Wikidata