Description
Alter Natives- Hold Your Tongue – Cassette
Hold Your Tongue is the second album by the Richmond, Virginia-based band Alter Natives, released in 1986. Alter Natives were known for their unique blend of jazz, rock, and experimental sounds, and this album is a testament to their innovative approach to music.
The album is often categorized under experimental rock, post-punk, and jazz fusion. It combines complex time signatures, unconventional structures, and a mix of jazz improvisation with rock energy. The band features an unusual lineup for a rock band, including saxophones, which contributes significantly to their distinctive sound. Their use of instruments typically associated with jazz gives their music a layered and textured feel.
The album consists of a series of tracks that are both intricate and energetic, showcasing the band’s technical proficiency and creativity. Each track flows into the next, creating a cohesive listening experience that challenges traditional rock norms.
Produced by Tom Cora, a prominent figure in the avant-garde jazz and experimental music scenes, the production on Hold Your Tongue emphasizes clarity and detail, allowing the complex interplay of instruments to shine. While Alter Natives did not achieve mainstream commercial success, they garnered a cult following and critical acclaim within the underground music community. ‘Hold Your Tongue’ is often praised for its originality and daring fusion of genres.
Hold Your Tongue stands out for its experimental approach during a time when the music industry was dominated by more commercial sounds. The album pushed the boundaries of what rock music could be, incorporating elements from various genres in a seamless and inventive way. Although not widely known, Alter Natives influenced other bands within the experimental and avant-garde rock scenes. Their willingness to blend genres and break conventions inspired many musicians to explore new sonic landscapes.
Hold Your Tongue by Alter Natives is a fascinating album that showcases the band’s dedication to pushing musical boundaries. For fans of experimental rock and jazz fusion, it remains a compelling listen and an important piece of 1980s underground music.
SST Records 075
Track Listing
sunset
the nipple factor
blood on the highway
sole
pit ryethum
firewater
over the counter culture
701
paraquatt
circular motion
chicken box
house of tofu
jesus goes to straight
out of my brain
living on starch
stinky hole
