Have you ever been drawn to something because of its apparent flaws? That's exactly what happened when I stumbled upon Suburban Tours by Rangers, an album that defies conventional appeal. In an interview, Joe Knight, the mastermind behind Rangers, described the songs as "dull, numb, and vacant." But here's where it gets intriguing – it was this very description that sparked my curiosity and compelled me to listen. Let's dive into why such a seemingly negative portrayal can actually be a magnet for listeners, especially in the context of the late 2000s and early 2010s music scene.
During that era, the American underground was buzzing with genres like chillwave, hypnagogic pop, and glo-fi. Artists such as James Ferraro, Oneohtrix Point Never, and Emeralds were revisiting and reimagining genres like New Age and yacht rock, which were once considered background music. This shift brought a transvaluation of musical values, where the once-overlooked became the new cool. It was a time when the mundane became fascinating, and the background stepped into the spotlight.
And this is the part most people miss – this era challenged our assumptions about what makes music appealing. Terms like "bland" or "slick" were no longer inherently negative. Instead, it was about embracing the counterintuitive, daring to listen to what was once considered uncool. This movement wasn't just about reevaluating music; it was a cultural shift that questioned our preconceived notions of value and taste.
Now, when I finally listened to Suburban Tours in 2010, I didn't find it dull or numb. It was exciting, tingling with emotion and ecstasy. The album is a DIY masterpiece, recorded on affordable equipment, and it captures a unique, rough-around-the-edges sound. Knight's description of the album as "dull, numb, and vacant" makes sense when you consider the serene, almost empty-headed glide of the music. It's like a peaceful drive through the suburbs, where the landscape is neatly plotted, and the atmosphere is tranquil.
But here's the controversial part: Can music that is intentionally bland or vacant actually be profound? Suburban Tours challenges this notion by finding bliss in blandness. The album's titles, like "Deerfield Village" and "Golden Triangles," reflect the suburban theme, and the music itself has a frazzled dazzle that mirrors the sprawl of suburban life. It's a unique take on a familiar setting, and it raises the question: Can the ordinary be extraordinary?
The album's creation was influenced by Knight's love for guitar heroes like Eddie Van Halen and Robert Fripp, as well as the lo-fi aesthetics of Ariel Pink and James Ferraro. Recorded in a claustrophobic setup, Knight used basic equipment and effects to create a rich, layered sound. The result is a guitar-centric album with a hypnotic rhythm section, blending soloistic melodies with a dreamy, distorted atmosphere.
Suburban Tours is a testament to the idea that genius can emerge from the most unexpected places. It's an album that captures the spirit of an era, blending nostalgia with innovation. So, the next time you come across something that seems unappealing, remember Suburban Tours and ask yourself: Could this be the next big thing?
What do you think? Can music that challenges our traditional notions of appeal be truly valuable? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's spark a discussion!
