Unlocking the Emotions: Exploring Sunny Day Real Estate's How It Feels To Be Something On Album

How does it feel to be something on? That's the question Sunny Day Real Estate is asking in their iconic album of the same name. Released in 1998, How It Feels To Be Something On is a staple of emo and alternative rock. Let's dive into the album and see why it's still popular over two decades later.

First off, the album is a rollercoaster of emotions. From the explosive opener Pillars to the haunting ballad Days Were Golden, each track will take the listener on a journey. And the lyrics are just as powerful as the music - they touch on themes of identity, spirituality, and relationships.

But Sunny Day Real Estate isn't afraid to experiment either. One standout track is Guitar and Video Games, which features elements of electronic music. And yet, somehow it all flows together seamlessly. It's clear that the band was pushing boundaries and trying new things with this album.

So how did How It Feels To Be Something On fare with critics? The answer is overwhelmingly positive. Publications like Rolling Stone and Pitchfork couldn't get enough of it. The album even landed on many end-of-the-year lists, cementing its place as one of the best albums of 1998.

But it's not just critics who are fans of the album. How It Feels To Be Something On has a dedicated fanbase who still listen to it religiously. And it's not hard to see why - the album is a cathartic experience that speaks to those struggling with similar issues as presented in the lyrics.

One aspect of the album that often goes overlooked is the stunning artwork. The cover features a beautiful painting by Jeremy Enecio that perfectly encapsulates the mood of the music. It's a work of art that could hang in a gallery, and yet it's a part of an album that's just as beautiful.

So where does Sunny Day Real Estate stand in the pantheon of emo and alternative rock? They're definitely up there with the likes of Jimmy Eat World, Mineral, and Texas Is The Reason. But what sets them apart is their ability to be both catchy and introspective.

In conclusion, How It Feels To Be Something On is an album that's stood the test of time. Whether you're a diehard fan or new listener, there's something to appreciate about its raw emotion and innovative experimentation. So why not give it a listen and see how it feels to be something on?

"Sunny Day Real Estate How It Feels To Be Something On" ~ bbaz

Sunny Day Real Estate: How It Feels To Be Something On

In 1998, American emo band Sunny Day Real Estate released their third album, How It Feels To Be Something On. The album was highly anticipated by fans who were eagerly awaiting new material from the band after a brief hiatus. Much to their joy, the album was met with critical acclaim and cemented Sunny Day Real Estate's place in music history.

The Band's History

Sunny Day Real Estate was formed in Seattle in 1992 by guitarist Dan Hoerner, bassist Nate Mendel, drummer William Goldsmith, and vocalist Jeremy Enigk. The band quickly gained a cult following due to their strong songwriting skills, heartfelt lyrics, and Enigk's unique high-pitched vocals.

The band's 1994 debut album, Diary, is often credited as being one of the first emo albums and helped to define the genre. Sunny Day Real Estate's sophomore release, LP2, was equally well-received, but tension within the band caused a split shortly after. During this time, Enigk converted to Christianity and embarked on a solo career, while the other members formed the band The Foo Fighters with former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl.

The Reunion

After realizing that their respective projects were not fulfilling, the band decided to reunite and record a new album. The result was How It Feels To Be Something On, which was released under independent label Sub Pop Records in 1998.

The Album's Sound

How It Feels To Be Something On marked a departure from the band's earlier sound and embraced a more experimental approach. The album was produced by Lou Giordano, who worked with bands such as Goo Goo Dolls and Husker Du. The album features intricate guitar work, complex drumming, and Enigk's soaring vocals.

The Album's Themes

How It Feels To Be Something On explores themes of self-discovery, spirituality, and personal growth. Enigk's conversion to Christianity influenced the album's lyrical content, but the themes are universal and relatable to people of all backgrounds and beliefs.

Critical Acclaim

The album received widespread critical acclaim and is considered by many to be the band's masterpiece. Pitchfork gave the album an 8.9 rating and called it one of the most important records of its time. Rolling Stone magazine ranked the album at number 67 on their list of the 100 greatest emo albums of all time.

The Legacy

How It Feels To Be Something On has had a lasting impact on the emo genre and continues to influence new bands. The album's sound and themes have resonated with listeners for over 20 years and will continue to do so in the future.

The Breakup and Beyond

Sadly, Sunny Day Real Estate broke up once again in 2001 due to creative differences. The band reunited once more in 2009 and released their fifth studio album, The Rising Tide. Although the band has no immediate plans to record new material, their legacy lives on.

In Conclusion

How It Feels To Be Something On represents a high point in Sunny Day Real Estate's career and the emo genre as a whole. The album's experimental sound and thought-provoking lyrics continue to inspire fans around the world. If you haven't given this album a listen yet, you're missing out on a true masterpiece.

Sunny Day Real Estate's How It Feels to Be Something On: A Comparison

Background

Sunny Day Real Estate is an American rock band that was formed in 1992. They are known for their emotional and introspective lyrics, complex song structures, and experimental sound. How It Feels to Be Something On is the band's fourth album, released in 1998. It was produced by Lou Giordano and recorded at John and Stu's Place in Seattle.

Lyrics and Themes

The lyrics on How It Feels to Be Something On are deeply personal and introspective, touching on themes such as identity, loss, and self-discovery. The album's title track explores the feeling of being lost in the world and searching for meaning. Roses in Water reflects on the pain of losing a loved one, while Two Promises deals with the struggles of communication in a relationship. Compared to the band's previous albums, How It Feels to Be Something On features a more polished sound and more straightforward song structures. However, the emotional intensity and introspective themes that define the band's music remain strong throughout the album.

Instrumentation and Production

Sunny Day Real Estate's music is characterized by complex melodies, intricate rhythms, and unconventional song structures. How It Feels to Be Something On features a more polished and streamlined sound compared to the band's earlier albums, thanks in part to Lou Giordano's production. Despite the more polished production, the album still features the band's signature elements, such as Jeremy Enigk's soaring vocals, Dan Hoerner's intricate guitar work, and William Goldsmith's powerful drumming. The album also includes some experimental elements, such as the distorted guitar on Friday and the electronic percussion on 100 Million.

Reception and Legacy

How It Feels to Be Something On was met with critical acclaim upon its release and is considered by many to be one of Sunny Day Real Estate's best albums. The album helped to cement the band's legacy as pioneers of emo and alternative rock, inspiring countless bands in the years to come. The album also marked a turning point for the band, as it was their first release after a two-year hiatus and marked a more mature and introspective direction in their music. While the band would go on to release one more album before disbanding in 2001, How It Feels to Be Something On remains a highlight of their career.

Comparison Table

Album	Lyrics and Themes	Instrumentation and Production	Reception and Legacy
Diary	Intensely personal explorations of love, loss, and self-discovery.	Raw, emotive instrumentation with complex song structures.	Largely ignored upon release, but would later become a cult classic and influential album in the emo genre.
LP2	Explorations of identity, spirituality, and societal pressures.	Innovative instrumentation with intricate rhythms and melodies.	Received critical acclaim and cemented the band's legacy as pioneers of the emo genre.
How It Feels to Be Something On	Introspective reflections on identity, loss, and self-discovery.	More polished and streamlined sound, while still featuring the band's signature elements.	Met with critical acclaim and helped to solidify the band's legacy as emo pioneers.

Opinion

As a fan of Sunny Day Real Estate, I consider How It Feels to Be Something On to be one of their strongest albums. While it may not be as groundbreaking as Diary or LP2, it showcases a more mature and introspective side of the band's music. The album's lyrics and themes are deeply personal and relatable, and Jeremy Enigk's vocals are some of the most powerful and emotional in the band's discography. While the album may not feature the same level of experimentation and complexity as the band's earlier albums, its more polished sound allows the emotional intensity of the music to shine through. The album's legacy as a classic of the emo genre is well-deserved, and its influence can be heard in countless bands that followed in Sunny Day Real Estate's footsteps.

Sunny Day Real Estate: How It Feels To Be Something On

Introduction

Sunny Day Real Estate is a widely admired band that has influenced many musicians and has left an indelible mark on the emo and indie rock scene. Their album How It Feels To Be Something On is considered by many to be a masterpiece. In this article, we will discuss some tips and insights on how to appreciate this album better.

1. Listen with an open mind

The first tip is to listen to this album with an open mind. Some listeners might dismiss it as just another emo album, but it offers more than that. How It Feels To Be Something On is an emotionally charged and complex album that requires active listening.

2. Pay attention to the lyrics

Lyrics in Sunny Day Real Estate's music are always thought-provoking, and this album is no different. They address themes of identity, relationships, and existentialism. Focusing on the wordplay can offer a new perspective on the music.

3. Acknowledge the band's musicianship

Sunny Day Real Estate's members all have musical talent, and they showcase it throughout the album. The intricate guitar work in Pillars, the dreamy melodies of Two Promises, and the intense drumming in Guitar and Video Games make for engaging listening

4. Consider the album's production

The production allowed the band's sound to reach new heights of complexity with the use of layered guitars and effects to create a full-bodied sound. The balance between the instruments incorporates both organic and artificial elements.

5. Appreciate the album's creativity

While this album draws inspiration from the emo genre, it is also distinctively innovative. The band experiments with time signatures, textures, and structures that make this album unique.

6. Notice the emotional range

Sunny Day Real Estate's music has always been an exploration of complex emotions such as sadness, anxiety, love, and hope. This album is no exception, making it a raw and emotionally engaging experience.

7. Explore the themes of identity

The themes in this album are often centered on identity. Jeremy Enigk reflects on his changing identity in Guitar and Video Games, while The Prophet considers the idea of belonging. Exploring these themes can bring new meaning to the album

8. Pay attention to the album's sequencing

The sequencing of the album is essential in presenting the flow of emotions and ideas. The songs are arranged to create a building tension that eventually culminates in the cathartic Days Were Golden.

9. Consider the album's influence

This album was released during a time when alternative rock music had reached its peak, and Sunny Day Real Estate's sound had helped define and refine the emo genre. The band's influence has been felt in numerous bands, and this album remains a benchmark for introspective rock music.

10. Take the time to listen

Finally, the most crucial tip is to take the time to listen to this album fully. It may take more than one listen to appreciate the nuances, but the payoff is worth the effort. How It Feels To Be Something On is an album that requires a careful and attentive ear to fully appreciate.

Conclusion

Sunny Day Real Estate's How It Feels To Be Something On is a timeless album that continues to resonate with listeners. With the tips and perspectives offered here, you can gain a deeper appreciation for this album's creativity and emotional depth. Listen with an open mind and explore its intricacies to discover a new level of appreciation.

Sunny Day Real Estate's How It Feels To Be Something On: A Masterpiece of Emotion and Catharsis

If there is one album that defines the emo genre of the 90s, it is undoubtedly Sunny Day Real Estate's How It Feels To Be Something On. Released in 1998, the album was a critical and commercial success, bringing the Seattle band to the forefront of alternative rock music at the time.

But more than its commercial success, How It Feels To Be Something On is a masterpiece of emotion and catharsis. The album is a stunning display of raw vulnerability and honesty, with lyrics that speak to the deepest parts of our souls, and melodies that are simply unforgettable.

At the heart of the album is frontman Jeremy Enigk's soaring voice, which carries an incredible range of emotions, from the gentle whispers of Pillars to the explosive screams of Roses In Water. His lyrics are equally powerful, tackling themes of love, loss, and identity with a poetic grace that is rarely seen in rock music.

But Enigk is not the only standout performer on the album. Drummer William Goldsmith's frenetic rhythms provide a driving force throughout the album, while bassist Nate Mendel's melodic lines add depth and texture to each song. Guitarist Dan Hoerner, meanwhile, balances Enigk's emotional intensity with his own laid-back approach, creating a perfect complement to the singer's voice.

Together, the band creates a sound that is both ethereal and hard-hitting, with songs like Every Shining Time You Arrive and 100 Million reaching breathtaking highs of emotion and intensity. But even on quieter tracks like Days Were Golden and Two Promises, the band's musicianship shines through, creating an intimate and introspective atmosphere.

Perhaps the most impressive thing about How It Feels To Be Something On, however, is its ability to connect with listeners on a deep and personal level. The album's themes of identity and self-discovery resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds, making it a timeless classic that continues to inspire new generations of fans today.

And while Sunny Day Real Estate may have disbanded not long after the album's release, their influence can still be heard in countless bands that followed in their wake, from Brand New to Taking Back Sunday and beyond.

In short, How It Feels To Be Something On is not just an album – it is a masterpiece of emotion and catharsis that has stood the test of time and will continue to be revered for years to come.

So if you haven't yet experienced this incredible piece of music, do yourself a favor and give it a listen. You won't regret it.

Thank you for reading and we hope you enjoy How It Feels To Be Something On.

People Also Ask About Sunny Day Real Estate's How It Feels To Be Something On

What is Sunny Day Real Estate?

Sunny Day Real Estate is an American rock band formed in Seattle, Washington in 1992. They are considered one of the pioneers of the emo genre with their sound characterized by complex and intricate instrumentation, emotional and introspective lyrics, and soaring vocal melodies.

What is How It Feels To Be Something On?

How It Feels To Be Something On is the third studio album released by Sunny Day Real Estate in 1998. The album title was derived from a statement made by the prank caller that inspired the song The Shark's Own Private Fuck. The album marked the reunion of the original lineup of the band after their breakup in 1995.

What are the notable songs on How It Feels To Be Something On?

The notable songs on How It Feels To Be Something On are:

1. Pillars
2. Roses in Water
3. Every Shining Time You Arrive
4. Days Were Golden
5. Two Promises
6. How It Feels to Be Something On

What is the critical reception of How It Feels To Be Something On?

How It Feels To Be Something On received critical acclaim upon its release. It has been praised for its musical complexity, emotional depth, and powerful vocals. AllMusic gave the album a perfect five-star rating, describing it as arguably their finest hour.

What is the legacy of How It Feels To Be Something On?

How It Feels To Be Something On is considered a landmark album in emo and alternative rock music. It has influenced countless musicians in the genre, and its impact can be heard in the music of bands such as Brand New and Jimmy Eat World. In 2014, Rolling Stone listed the album at number 33 on their 40 Greatest Emo Albums of All Time list.