Ham Fisted
Local H · 1995
47 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock
Raw guitar riffs intertwine with sardonic lyrics, capturing the angst of the mid-'90s alternative rock scene.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Cynic — This track stands out for its introspective lyrics combined with a driving rhythm, showcasing Local H's ability to blend emotional weight with energetic instrumentation.
-
→
Sports Bar — With its satirical take on bar culture and catchy hooks, this song exemplifies the band's knack for blending humor and critique within their songwriting.
-
→
Manipulator — This track features a compelling narrative about control and self-awareness, illustrating the band's capacity for poignant storytelling amidst gritty guitar work.
-
→
Feed — Opening the album with high energy, this song sets a tone that resonates throughout 'Ham Fisted,' showcasing the band's punk rock influences.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album captures mid-'90s angst with raw energy and sharp wit, though it lacks some cohesion in its later tracks.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a fast pace, which is maintained through the first half before slowing down in the latter part.
- Many tracks feature prominent guitar riffs that are layered with sarcastic vocal delivery, creating a contrast between sound and lyrics.
- Several songs incorporate abrupt tempo changes, often shifting from driving rhythms to quieter, more introspective moments.
- Composition 25% of the score
-
6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
-
7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
-
6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
-
7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts
- raw energy for cathartic release
- sharp lyrics for emotional edge
- short bursts of anthemic intensity
Maybe skip if you
- prefer polished production styles
- seek consistent, mellow vibes
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album helped establish Local H's presence in the mid-'90s alternative rock scene.
- Career context
- Released on January 1, 1995, 'Ham Fisted' was Local H's second studio album, following their debut 'Ham Fisted' in 1994. This album came at a crucial time when the band was transitioning from underground success to broader recognition, reflecting their growth in sound and lyrical depth.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Bush· Stone Temple Pilots· Foo Fighters
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Feed 2:37
- 2 Cynic 5:00
- 3 Mayonnaise and Malaise 4:45
- 4 User 2:49
- 5 Manipulator 4:10
- 6 Bag of Hammers 2:38
- 7 Scott-Rock 3:27
- 8 Sports Bar 5:38
- 9 Chicago Fanphair '93 4:00
- 10 Strict-9 6:11
- 11 Skid Marks 5:02
- 12 Grrrlfriend 1:27
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.