What makes Meat Puppets II by Meat Puppets notable?

The album received critical acclaim upon release, helping to establish the Meat Puppets as a pivotal influence in the alternative rock movement of the late '80s and early '90s. Tracks like Plateau and Lake of Fire gained further recognition when covered by Nirvana during their MTV Unplugged performance in 1993, cementing its lasting legacy. Released in 1984, Meat Puppets II was the band's second album and marked a significant step forward from their debut. At this point, the Meat Puppets had begun to carve out their unique niche within the burgeoning alternative rock scene, embracing more experimental sounds while maintaining their punk roots.

Who is Meat Puppets II for?

Meat Puppets II works well if you're into kaleidoscopic flow of introspection, short tracks for quick enjoyment and wave-like pacing with surprises.

How many songs are on Meat Puppets II?

Meat Puppets II has 19 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Meat Puppets II

Meat Puppets · 1984

48 min · 19 tracks · alternative rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of punk, country, and psychedelia shaped by surreal lyrics and vibrant guitar textures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Plateau — This track exemplifies the band's fusion of folk and punk elements while showcasing introspective lyrics that question existence and reality.
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Lake of Fire — With its haunting melody and poignant themes of mortality, this song has become one of the band's most enduring pieces, resonating with listeners across generations.
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Oh, Me — A contemplative exploration of self-identity and alienation, this track features striking imagery that captures the essence of the album's lyrical depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album's eclectic sound and unique songwriting contribute to its distinctiveness within alternative rock.

What we noticed

Several songs incorporate unconventional song structures, such as abrupt tempo changes and unexpected instrumental breaks.
The use of layered guitar textures creates a rich soundscape that shifts between vibrant and introspective moments across the tracklist.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

kaleidoscopic flow of introspection
short tracks for quick enjoyment
wave-like pacing with surprises
thoughtful reflections on youth
playful yet contemplative atmosphere

Maybe skip if you

prefer longer, cohesive pieces
need instant gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album helped establish the Meat Puppets' influence in alternative rock.
Career context: Released in 1984, Meat Puppets II was the band's second album and marked a significant step forward from their debut. At this point, the Meat Puppets had begun to carve out their unique niche within the burgeoning alternative rock scene, embracing more experimental sounds while maintaining their punk roots.
Stylistic neighbors: Pixies· Sonic Youth· They Might Be Giants