What makes Extra Width by Jon Spencer Blues Explosion notable?

Extra Width was critically acclaimed and helped the band gain a cult following, influencing the garage rock revival of the late '90s. With its energetic blend of styles and innovative approach to blues-rock, the album has been hailed for its genre-blurring qualities and remains significant in discussions about the evolution of alternative rock. Released in 1993, Extra Width is the third studio album by Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, following their breakthrough self-titled album in 1992. At this point, the band was solidifying their unique sound and increasing visibility within the alternative rock scene, establishing themselves as a prominent act amid the burgeoning '90s indie movement.

Who is Extra Width for?

Extra Width works well if you're into steady pace for focused listening, gritty storytelling with raw energy and short tracks for quick enjoyment.

How many songs are on Extra Width?

Extra Width has 11 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Extra Width

Jon Spencer Blues Explosion · 1993

37 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A raw fusion of punk energy, blues grooves, and avant-garde experimentation that defies conventional rock boundaries.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Afro — The opening track sets an electrifying tone with its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics that encapsulate the band's irreverent spirit.
→
Soul Typecast — This track showcases a blend of funk and punk influences, highlighting the band's versatility and ability to fuse genres seamlessly.
→
The World of Sex — With its provocative themes and catchy hooks, this track stands out as a bold statement on identity and desire within the album's eclectic mix.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

62 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album showcases innovative structures and energetic performances, solidifying its distinct sound within alternative rock.

What we noticed

The album opens with a high-energy track that features distorted guitar riffs and aggressive drumming, setting a raw tone.
Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, such as abrupt tempo changes and unexpected breaks.
The use of call-and-response vocals between the lead singer and backing vocals creates a dynamic interaction throughout the record.
The final track features an extended instrumental outro that diverges from the lyrical content, allowing for a more experimental finish.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pace for focused listening
gritty storytelling with raw energy
short tracks for quick enjoyment
for energetic gatherings

Maybe skip if you

prefer polished, smooth sounds
seek lengthy, immersive experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Fan Favorite — Cult following and critical acclaim make it a beloved choice among dedicated fans.
Career context: Released in 1993, Extra Width is the third studio album by Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, following their breakthrough self-titled album in 1992. At this point, the band was solidifying their unique sound and increasing visibility within the alternative rock scene, establishing themselves as a prominent act amid the burgeoning '90s indie movement.
Stylistic neighbors: The White Stripes· The Black Keys· Royal Blood