Pennsylvania is an album by Pere Ubu, released in 1998. A dissonant collage of avant-garde sounds intertwined with fragmented narratives and distinctively unsettling melodies. The album received mixed reviews upon its release but has since been recognized for its ambition and innovation within the art rock scene. It contributed to the band's reputation as pioneers of avant-garde rock, influencing subsequent artists who sought to blend unconventional sounds with lyrical experimentation. Notably, the track 'Wheelhouse' stands out for its length and complexity, often discussed in retrospective analyses of the band's work. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Pennsylvania sound like?
A dissonant collage of avant-garde sounds intertwined with fragmented narratives and distinctively unsettling melodies. Rooted in art rock.
What makes Pennsylvania by Pere Ubu notable?
The album received mixed reviews upon its release but has since been recognized for its ambition and innovation within the art rock scene. It contributed to the band's reputation as pioneers of avant-garde rock, influencing subsequent artists who sought to blend unconventional sounds with lyrical experimentation. Notably, the track 'Wheelhouse' stands out for its length and complexity, often discussed in retrospective analyses of the band's work. Released in 1998, 'Pennsylvania' is Pere Ubu's seventh studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'The Tenement Year' from 1988. At this point, the band was exploring more experimental soundscapes, marking a continued evolution of their unique art rock identity after a significant hiatus. This release followed a period of lineup changes and showcased their willingness to push boundaries within the genre.
How many songs are on Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has 15 tracks, running approximately 70 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Woolie Bullie Standout 3:43
- 2 Highwaterville 1:33
- 3 SAD.TXT 3:21
- 4 Urban Lifestyle 2:58
- 5 Silent Springs 4:08
- 6 Mr. Wheeler 4:14
- 7 Muddy Waters 3:49
- 8 Slow 1:04
- 9 Drive Standout 4:42
- 10 Indiangiver 0:57
- 11 Monday Morning 4:07
- 12 Perfume 4:21
- 13 Fly’s Eye 2:39
- 14 The Duke’s Saharan Ambitions Standout 4:56
- 15 Wheelhouse 23:28
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.
