Devils Haircut cover

Released 30 years ago

Devils Haircut

Beck · 1996

14 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A genre-blending soundscape where lo-fi aesthetics meet eclectic rhythms and introspective lyrics, creating a distinctly playful yet contemplative vibe.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Devils Haircut — This track serves as the cornerstone of the EP, combining catchy hooks with intricate instrumentation that showcases Beck's signature blend of genres.
  • →
    Dark and Lovely (remix by Dust Brothers) — The remix enhances the original's groove, layering beats and samples that reflect the experimental production style characteristic of the mid-90s alternative scene.
  • →
    .000.000 — An expansive track that contrasts with the more concise pieces on the EP, it dives into surreal imagery and complex arrangements, highlighting Beck's artistic range.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100
Treeline
Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

This single showcases Beck's eclectic style with strong production and varied tracks, though it lacks full cohesion as an EP.

What we noticed

  • The title track features a prominent, looped guitar riff that drives the song, layered with samples and a steady drumbeat.
  • The second track is a remix that introduces electronic elements, altering the original's structure and adding new textures.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Showcased Beck's evolving style post-'Loser', gaining significant radio play and recognition.
Themes
lo-fi surrealism· whimsical grit· eclectic soundscapes
Career context
Released in 1996, 'Devils Haircut' marked Beck's rise following his breakthrough with 'Loser' two years prior. This EP showcased his evolving style, blending alternative rock, hip-hop, and anti-folk elements, solidifying his place in the 90s music scene as an innovative artist.
Stylistic neighbors
Gnarls Barkley· MGMT· The Flaming Lips
New to Beck? Find your way in →

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Devils Haircut 3:14
  • 2 Dark and Lovely (remix by Dust Brothers) 3:38
  • 3 American Wasteland (remix by Mickey P.) 2:43
  • 4 .000.000 5:24

What to play next

Odelay
Listen next

Odelay

1996

Continues the eclectic sound and playful vibe with more genre-blending tracks.
Mellow Gold
Go back to

Mellow Gold

1994

Sets the stage with similar lo-fi aesthetics and introspective themes.
Full Beck discography Where to start with Beck Artists like Beck
alternative rock indie rock soul

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Since I Left You

Since I Left You

The Avalanches

Features eclectic sampling and surreal sound collages that echo Beck's genre-blending style.

Chocolate and Cheese

Chocolate and Cheese

Ween

Combines whimsical, lo-fi aesthetics with a diverse sonic palette, similar to Beck's playful experimentation.

St. Elsewhere

St. Elsewhere

Gnarls Barkley

Merges alternative rock with hip-hop influences and surreal themes that resonate with the vibe of Beck's work.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata