329 - Sonic Youth - Daydream Nation

[csberry]

I didn't start paying attention to Sonic Youth until Goo came out. I wish I had discovered the band one album earlier. For a band that grew in importance as hardcore punk developed a strict doctrine, it was post-hardcore and during the grunge years that the band seemed to lose their experimental nature and searched for the perfect rock riff or hook that would get them more mainstream recognition. This album was one I frequently picked out to listen to when I've seen it in someone's collection. Alas, this tendency led to my knowing the sound of the album, but kept me from becoming more familiar with the individual songs. Much of shoegaze music clearly has their foundation with the sound that is archived on this album.

On Daydream Nation, the band has ventured from the NYC No Wave movement that inspired them and created a blend of noise and punk that showed had a beauty that most of the No Wave bands couldn't (and didn't want to) make. Feedback, odd chords, and drones have an almost techno-trance feel to them. Repetitious sounds slowly morph. What could otherwise be considered rattling and garbage becomes soothing. It is almost as if the album was produced by Brian Eno.

Daydream Nation relishes in seven minute songs that allow the guitars to fully explore all of the potential harmonics and squeals that manifest themselves. Kim's apathetic, husky vocals are both delicate and abrasive.

Songs I knew I liked: "Teen Age Riot" and "Candle"

Songs I didn't know but now like: "The Sprawl," "Eric's Trip," and "Hey Joni"

Songs I can go the rest of my life without hearing again: None, although I would likely start skipping past "Providence" after more listens.