2 Mics & the Truth – Unplugged & Unhinged in America cover

2 Mics & the Truth – Unplugged & Unhinged in America

Violent Femmes · 2019

71 min · 19 tracks · alternative rock

Raw acoustic renditions breathe new life into classic tracks, revealing the emotional core of Violent Femmes’ storied catalog.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Blister in the Sun (WXRV) — This iconic track retains its infectious energy even in an acoustic form, showcasing the band's signature blend of punk fervor and folk sensibility.
  • →
    American Music (KINK) — The stripped-back rendition emphasizes the song's themes of cultural identity and musical heritage, making it resonate deeply in this live setting.
  • →
    Kiss Off (WXRV) — This performance captures the raw emotion behind the lyrics, stripping away the original's instrumentation to highlight the vulnerability within its narrative.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic mix of energy levels
  • lyrical depth in raw acoustics
  • wave-like pacing with varied intensity
  • reflective moments for introspection
  • live performance vibe throughout

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer polished studio productions
  • seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
By 2019, Violent Femmes were in a period of resurgence after reuniting in 2016 for their first album in over a decade. '2 Mics & the Truth' arrives as a live acoustic collection that showcases their enduring appeal and ability to connect with audiences, featuring performances from various radio stations across America.
Stylistic neighbors
They Might Be Giants· Pavement· The Smiths

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Blister in the Sun (WXRV) 3:35
  • 2 I’m Nothing (PASTE) 2:49
  • 3 It’s Gonna Rain (PASTE) 3:59
  • 4 Breaking Up (WFUV) 4:47
  • 5 Good for/at Nothing (WFUV) 3:06
  • 6 American Music (KINK) 4:18
  • 7 Gone Daddy Gone / I Just Want to Make Love to You (WXPN) 3:08
  • 8 I Could Be Anything (WFUV) 4:04
  • 9 Rejoice and Be Happy (KCMP) 2:43
  • 10 Add It Up (WFUV) 5:27
  • 11 You Move Me (WXPN) 3:35
  • 12 Issues (KCMP) 2:57
  • 13 Run With It (WFUV) 4:36
  • 14 Ugly (WXRV) 2:17
  • 15 Kiss Off (WXRV) 3:07
  • 16 Jesus Walking on the Water (WFUV) 4:59
  • 17 Prove My Love (WFUV) 3:01
  • 18 Country Death Song (WFUV) 4:52
  • 19 Untrue Love (PASTE) 3:58

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata