Description

The Buck Pets – Mercurotones – Vinyl Record

The Buck Pets’ album Mercurotones was released in 1990 and stands as a significant entry in the catalog of this Dallas-based alternative rock band. Recognized for their energetic blend of punk, grunge, and hard rock, The Buck Pets were often compared to bands like the Pixies and Sonic Youth, yet they carved out their own unique place in the early ’90s rock scene.

The Buck Pets emerged from the Dallas music scene and were quickly signed to a major label, unusual for a band with such a distinctly underground sound at the time. They were known for their raw and uncompromising approach to rock music, blending melodic elements with more aggressive punk influences.

Following their debut and sophomore releases, ‘Mercurotones’ showcases a maturation of the band’s sound. It continues to feature their signature blend of aggressive rock and melodic undercurrents but with a more polished production compared to their earlier work. This album, produced under the Island Records label, helped solidify their reputation as a band capable of bridging the gap between alternative rock and mainstream audiences.

The album is characterized by its diverse range of tracks, from hard-hitting rock anthems to more introspective and melodic tunes. Key tracks include:
‘Libertine’: A track that captures the band’s aggressive yet melodic style, showcasing both the raw energy of their music and the lyrical depth.
‘Pearls’: Demonstrates their ability to blend catchy hooks with a punk rock edge.
‘Brother Take These Dreams’: Stands out as an example of their harder rock influences, featuring heavy guitar riffs and a driving rhythm section.

Mercurotones received positive reviews for its refined sound and dynamic range, illustrating the band’s growth as musicians and songwriters. Although The Buck Pets never achieved the same level of commercial success as some of their early ’90s contemporaries, they are remembered for their contribution to the alternative rock genre and their influence on the Dallas music scene.
Conclusion

The Buck Pets’ Mercurotones is a noteworthy album within the alternative rock genre, particularly for listeners interested in the early ’90s music scene that bridged the rawness of punk with the emerging sounds of grunge. It captures a band in transition, refining their sound without losing the edge that made them stand out in a crowded musical landscape.

Formed in Dallas, TX in the late ’80s, the Buck Pets (Tony Alba, drums, Ian Beach, bass, Chris Savage, guitar and vocals, and Andy Thompson, guitar and vocals) released three albums during the transition from the ’80s to the ’90s before splitting for good in 1993. Markedly influenced by early indie rock giants such as the Replacements, the Buck Pets scored a deal with Island, which released their first two albums, 1989’s The Buck Pets and 1990s Mercurotones.

The band would score opening act gigs for alt-rock giants Jane’s Addiction and would work with producers Michael Beinhorn and the Dust Brothers, but commercial success was evasive, the majority of the record buying populace were still a year or two away from rambunctious alt-rock and diversions into dancier territory and the Buck Pets called it a day after their Restless released final full-length, To the Quick in 1993.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the original plastic seal with Small cut in spine

Island Records

Track Listing
1. Moon Goddess (R.T. Cocaine Blues)
2. Pearls
3. PM Sick Of It All
4. Some Hesitation
5. Five O’Clock Thursday Up To You
6. Ave. F Blues Down Through The Avenue
7. Libertine
8. Ready To Break I’m So Tired
9. Shameless
10. Brother Take These Dreams
11. Guilty Where’s My Head
12. Hey Sunshine