Description

Salem 66 – Frequency And Urgency – Vinyl Record

Frequency and Urgency is the third full-length album by the American alternative rock band Salem 66, released in 1987 through Homestead Records. Known for their unique blend of post-punk and indie rock with a distinctive melodic sensibility, Salem 66 stood out in the Boston music scene during the 1980s. This album captures the band’s introspective lyrics, intricate guitar work, and harmonically rich vocals, showcasing their evolution and maturity as musicians.

Salem 66 was an indie group formed in 1982 by Judy Grunwald, Elisabeth Kaplan and Susan Merriam. At the time a serious all female rock band was somewhat unusual. Through the eighties, the band added and subtracted members, including Robert Wilson, Stephen Smith, Tim Condon, and Jim Vincent. The band lasted until 1989 and was an important part of the Boston alternative indie music scene during the 1980s.

They recorded and released records on Homestead Records, a label founded by Gerard Cosloy. Their music was described as folk punk, but they could be called jangle pop and a loose association can be made with the Paisley Underground and groups such as R.E.M..

The album is deeply rooted in post-punk and indie rock, characterized by jangly guitars, complex rhythms, and a mix of introspective and assertive lyrics. Salem 66 is known for their melodic approach to songwriting, blending catchy hooks with intricate guitar interplay and harmonized vocals.

The lyrics on ‘Frequency and Urgency’ are often introspective, dealing with themes of personal reflection, relationships, and emotional experiences. The band’s songwriting reflects a thoughtful and sometimes melancholic perspective. Many of the songs explore everyday life and personal stories, making the lyrics relatable and grounded in real experiences.

The production maintains a raw and authentic feel, capturing the live energy of the band’s performances. This unpolished sound adds to the album’s charm and aligns with the indie rock ethos. The album features prominent guitar interplay, with jangly riffs and melodic lines that define the band’s sound. The rhythm section provides a solid foundation, supporting the intricate guitar work and harmonized vocals.

Frequency and Urgency has garnered a cult following among fans of post-punk and indie rock. The album is appreciated for its melodic craftsmanship, lyrical depth, and the band’s unique sound. The album received positive reviews from critics, who praised its emotional depth, musical complexity, and the band’s ability to blend different influences into a cohesive sound.

Frequency and Urgency by Salem 66 is a significant release in the band’s discography, capturing their distinctive blend of post-punk and indie rock with a strong melodic sensibility. The album showcases the band’s ability to craft introspective and emotionally resonant songs, supported by intricate guitar work and harmonized vocals. Over the years, Frequency and Urgency has remained a beloved album among fans of the genre, highlighting Salem 66’s contribution to the alternative rock scene of the 1980s. Its enduring appeal lies in its authentic sound, thoughtful lyrics, and the band’s ability to create music that resonates on both an emotional and melodic level.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the original plastic seal but small promo hole in jacket

Homestead Records 1987

Track Listing
1. Postcard
2. Holiday
3. Bad News
4. Grunesella Daze
5. Wander Lust
6. Broken Bottles
7. People Express
8. Blue
9. Desk Clerk
10 Widows Walk