Feeling Strangely Fine
click the image to get it in cd-cover size
| Release Date: |
November 30, 1997 |
| Label: |
Mca |
| Rating: |
4.0 |
Description: The second record from this Minneapolis trio firmly established them as one of the most promising hard-edged pop bands to surface in the 1990s. The leadoff track, the modern rock radio hit "Closing Time," neatly encapsulates everything that makes Semisonic special, from its irresistibly catchy chorus to an ingeniously minimalist keyboard riff to a simple lyric that speaks volumes to the 20-something nightclubbing set. Elsewhere, the band broadens its base with touches of psychedelic production ("California"), boogie-woogie- influenced piano ("Never You Mind") and tender string accompaniment ("Gone to the Movies"). The disc drags a bit in the middle with less memorable tracks such as "Completely Pleased" and "This Will Be My Year," but overall,
Feeling Strangely Fine finds Semisonic blooming radiantly.
--Peter Blackstock
Tracklist of Feeling Strangely Fine
Reviews:
Feeling Strangely Fine=Shrineworthy
I first heard Semisonic through a mix tape given to me 4 years ago, and the one song that always stood out to me was 'Singing In My Sleep.' It took me a while to find this album, and when I did, it did not leave my CD player for a very long time. It is an amazing piece of rock genius by the rock genius himself, Dan Wilson. Every song on this album is a standout, especially 'Singing in My Sleep,' 'Never You Mind,' 'Secret Smile,' and 'California'(my favorite song right now off this album.) I love this album so much. It has gotten me through many tough times and has helped me realize the promise of a better day. I have even convinced my friends to love this album. I am always going to love it and listen to it, and it really is shrineworthy, in a sense. Semisonic is a shrineworthy band. Pay homage.
One of the most influential albums from the '90s
I have owned this album since it came out, and I still listen to it regularly. This has to be one of the best purchases I have ever made, not to mention one of the most influential in my life. Whatever mood I'm in, this CD has something to offer for me. Semisonic is easily one of my favorite bands of all time, and I recommend them to anyone who likes alternative rock, '90s music, or just music in general. Check out their other albums, which don't quite live up to the standard set by Feeling Strangely Fine, but are quite good too.
One of the most underrated bands ever.
When I think of seriously underrated bands, Semisonic always comes to mind. Most people will only remember them as the band that sang "Closing Time", and will never bother to purchase the album, thus missing out on some of the greatest music out there. I honestly feel sad when I listen to energetic and melodic masterpieces like "Never Your Mind", brief but soaring songs like "All Worked Out" and soft, cute, sexy songs like "Completely Pleased." I feel sad for those that are missing out. It's a shame.
What's interesting is that the weakest track on this album is probably "Closing Time." It's good, but it's by no means the best. Every other track is stellar (with the exceptions being "DND" and "Secret Smile" - but even those are good.)
I bought this album when I was in middle school - I'm about to be a freshman in college and I still play this album constantly - it's consistantly brilliant and worth every cent.