Released 30 years ago
II
The Presidents of the United States of America · 1996
42 min · 15 tracks · alternative rock
A playful blend of catchy melodies and quirky lyrics, layered over a driving alternative rock sound.
Top tracks — play these first
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Volcano — This track exemplifies the band’s ability to merge fun and energetic instrumentation with absurdist lyrics about a cataclysmic event, showcasing their signature style.
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Supermodel — With its catchy chorus and humorous take on superficiality in pop culture, this track stands out as a quintessential example of '90s alt-rock irony.
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Mach 5 — This song captures the essence of youthful exuberance and adventure, featuring rapid-fire lyrics that celebrate speed and excitement, making it an anthem for thrill-seekers.
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Puffy Little Shoes — The blend of whimsical storytelling with infectious melodies makes this track memorable, embodying the playful spirit that characterizes much of the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases quirky songwriting and energetic performances, but lacks the depth for lasting engagement.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features upbeat tracks with driving rhythms, while the second half introduces slower tempos and more experimental sounds.
- Several songs incorporate unconventional song structures, such as abrupt tempo changes and unexpected instrumental breaks.
- The lyrics often employ humor and whimsy, with playful imagery that complements the music's energetic feel.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
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
- quirky melodies for playful moods
- short bursts of energetic fun
- for casual gatherings
- sing-along anthems with friends
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of deep introspection
- prefer long, immersive tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on November 5, 1996, II was the second album by The Presidents of the United States of America, following their self-titled debut which had achieved significant commercial success. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their presence in the alternative rock scene, aiming to build on the momentum from their first album's hit singles like 'Peaches' and 'Lump.'
- Stylistic neighbors
- Weezer· They Might Be Giants· Barenaked Ladies
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Ladies and Gentlemen, Part I 1:37
- 2 Lunatic to Love 2:57
- 3 Volcano 2:58
- 4 Mach 5 3:16
- 5 Twig 2:37
- 6 Bug City 3:05
- 7 Bath of Fire 3:02
- 8 Tiki God 2:53
- 9 L.I.P. 3:20
- 10 Froggie 3:10
- 11 Toob Amplifier 1:21
- 12 Supermodel 2:49
- 13 Puffy Little Shoes 5:00
- 14 Ladies and Gentlemen, Part II 3:12
- 15 Basketball Dream 0:54
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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