Description
Slovenly – We Shoot For The Moon – Vinyl Record
Slovenly’s We Shoot for the Moon, released in 1989 under SST Records, is a pivotal album in the post-punk and art rock landscape of the late 1980s. Known for their experimental approach and genre-defying style, Slovenly emerged as a distinctive voice within the alternative music scene. Formed in 1981 in Los Angeles, the band built their reputation on a fusion of post-punk energy, jazz-inspired instrumentation, and avant-garde sensibilities, and We Shoot for the Moon is a testament to their evolving artistry. This album highlights their ability to navigate complex soundscapes while maintaining an emotionally resonant core.
The lineup on We Shoot for the Moon includes Steve Anderson on vocals, Rob Holtzman on drums, Lynn Johnston on horns, Tim Plowman on guitar and keyboards, Tom Watson on guitar and bass, and Scott Ziegler on guitar and bass. Together, they craft a rich and intricate sound that balances angular guitar work, subtle rhythms, and melodic experimentation. The album’s production, led by Vitus Mataré and the band, captures this dynamic interplay while retaining a raw, unfiltered quality that adds to the music’s authenticity.
Recorded in July 1988 at Lyceum Sound in Los Angeles, the album offers a diverse tracklist that reflects the band’s eclectic influences and creative ambitions. Tracks like “Running for Public Office” and “Spy Surf” channel Slovenly’s punk roots with high-energy rhythms and biting lyrics, while “We Shoot for the Moon” and “A Warm Night” showcase their more introspective, experimental side. Their cover of Neil Young’s “Don’t Cry No Tears” adds a unique spin to the classic, demonstrating their ability to reinterpret familiar material through their unconventional lens. Another standout is “A Year with No Head,” a cover of the Blue Orchids song, which highlights their knack for blending art rock with a brooding, atmospheric touch.
Lyrically, the album traverses themes of disillusionment, introspection, and existential reflection, delivered through Steve Anderson’s emotive vocal performances. The instrumentation, enriched by Lynn Johnston’s horn contributions, provides a textured backdrop that elevates the songs’ emotional depth. From the raw intensity of “Things Fall Apart” to the quirky and off-kilter “She Was Bananas,” the album maintains a balance between the avant-garde and the accessible, making it a compelling listen for fans of experimental rock.
We Shoot for the Moon solidifies Slovenly’s place as one of the most innovative bands on the SST Records roster. While the album didn’t achieve widespread commercial success, it remains a cherished release for fans of the era’s underground music scene. For those seeking a deep dive into the creative potential of post-punk and art rock, We Shoot for the Moon is a must-listen, offering a glimpse into a band that continually pushed the boundaries of their genre.
SST Records 209
Track Listing
1. Running For Public Office
2. Self Pity Song
3. Don’t Cry No Tears
4. Talking Machines
5. What’s It Called
6. You Cease To Amaze Me
7. We Shoot For The Moon
8. Year With No Head, A
9. Spy Surf
10. No Unlawful Sex
11. She Was Bananas
12. Warm Night
13. Hellectro
14. Things Fall Apart
