About this album
Where they were
When 'Before These Crowded Streets' was released in 1998, Dave Matthews Band was transitioning from their breakthrough success with 'Crash' (1996) to becoming a staple of the jam band scene. This album marked their third studio release and showcased a more complex sound, reflecting their maturation as artists and a growing ambition in songwriting.
Why it matters
This album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying the band's commercial peak during the late 90s. It also received considerable critical acclaim, with particular praise for its lyrical depth and musical experimentation, influencing subsequent bands within the jam rock genre.
Essential tracks
- "Don't Drink the Water" — This track stands out for its powerful commentary on colonialism and environmental issues, capturing the band's ability to blend social critique with engaging melodies.
- "Crush" — With its lush instrumentation and romantic lyrics, 'Crush' showcases the band's knack for creating expansive soundscapes that invite deep emotional engagement.
- "The Last Stop" — 'The Last Stop' features intricate musical arrangements and intense lyrical themes about spirituality and redemption, highlighting the band's artistic ambitions during this era.
Release Date
January 1, 1998
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Pantala Naga Pampa 0:40
- 2 Rapunzel 6:00
- 3 The Last Stop 6:57
- 4 Don't Drink the Water 7:01
- 5 Stay (Wasting Time) 5:35
- 6 Halloween 5:07
- 7 The Stone 7:28
- 8 Crush 8:09
- 9 The Dreaming Tree 8:48
- 10 Pig 6:57
- 11 Spoon 7:32