Contact Risk cover

Contact Risk

R. Stevie Moore · 1993

74 min · 21 tracks · country music

A kaleidoscopic blend of pop hooks and experimental whimsy, showcasing R. Stevie Moore's eclectic artistry.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Your Dancing Ears Start here — Opening the album with infectious energy, this track encapsulates Moore's playful yet sophisticated songwriting style, inviting listeners into his unique world.
  • →
    Can't Afford No Food — This song's stark lyrics juxtaposed against upbeat instrumentation reflect Moore’s knack for blending serious themes with lighthearted melodies, showcasing his distinctive approach.
  • →
    You Can't Write A Song — This track humorously critiques the songwriting process itself, demonstrating Moore's meta-awareness and cleverness, making it a standout example of his creative wit.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • quirky melodies for eclectic tastes
  • dynamic flow with varied pacing
  • moments of playful experimentation
  • for late-night wandering
  • short tracks for brief listens

Maybe skip if you

  • prefers traditional song structures
  • seeks instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Showcases fearless experimentation, influencing outsider music.
Themes
DIY music scene· playful absurdity· economic struggle· meta songwriting critique
Career context
By the time 'Contact Risk' was released in 1993, R. Stevie Moore had already established a significant underground presence with numerous self-released albums. This album arrived during a prolific period for Moore, following his 1991 project, 'Phonography', which further solidified his reputation as an innovator in the DIY music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Daniel Johnston· The Residents· Kevin Ayers

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Elation Damnation

    The narrator navigates a contrasting emotional landscape, alternating between joy and despair within the same verse.

    This duality in emotion reflects Moore’s ability to explore complex feelings while maintaining an accessible sound, enhancing the track's depth.

Tracklist

  • 1 Your Dancing Ears Start here 5:40
  • 2 Under The Light 5:11
  • 3 I Could Be Your Lover A 1:00
  • 4 Elation Damnation 3:23
  • 5 The Clinch 2:30
  • 6 Sponge Bath 1:00
  • 7 Can't Afford No Food 2:01
  • 8 Times Have Changed 4:44
  • 9 Ill (Worst) 2:46
  • 10 You Love Me, Do Something 4:53
  • 11 I Could Be Your Lover B 0:56
  • 12 Pledge Your Money 3:37
  • 13 You Can't Write A Song 4:16
  • 14 Oil 8:27
  • 15 It's What You Do (It's Not What You Are) 4:23
  • 16 Alecia 5:48
  • 17 I Could Be Your Lover C 1:06
  • 18 I Like To Stay Home 4:15
  • 19 No Know 3:00
  • 20 Hours Of Delight 1:37
  • 21 Play Myself Some Music 3:44

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata