Old Liquidator cover

Old Liquidator

The Minus 5 · 1995

52 min · 17 tracks · pop rock

A collage of quirky pop rock melodies intertwined with whimsical lyrics and understated instrumentation creates a charming, eclectic soundscape.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Winter Goes Away — This opening track captures the album's blend of melancholic themes with upbeat melodies, setting a reflective tone that resonates throughout.
  • →
    Emperor of the Bathroom — This song stands out for its humorous yet poignant exploration of mundane life, showcasing the band's knack for clever storytelling.
  • →
    No More Glory — Closing the album, this track encapsulates the overarching themes of resignation and acceptance, featuring a more somber arrangement that contrasts with earlier tracks.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • whimsical storytelling with charm
  • playful introspection throughout tracks
  • short bursts of catchy melodies
  • quirky narratives for curious minds
  • late-night reflective sing-alongs

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward, predictable songs
  • seek high-energy, fast-paced music

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1995, Old Liquidator was The Minus 5's debut album, introduced by Scott McCaughey alongside a rotating cast of musicians. This album set the stage for their distinctive blend of pop rock and alternative influences, establishing them in the indie music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
The Decemberists· The Shins· Wilco

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Winter Goes Away 4:05
  • 2 Worse 2:46
  • 3 All the Time 3:49
  • 4 Find a Finger 3:04
  • 5 Emperor of the Bathroom 3:22
  • 6 Vulture 3:39
  • 7 Algerian Hook 2:40
  • 8 Story 3:56
  • 9 How Many Bones 3:20
  • 10 Basing Street 3:06
  • 11 No More Glory 5:20
  • 12 When It Comes My Way 3:54
  • 13 House of Four Doors (Theme) 0:56
  • 14 Brotherhood of Pain 2:41
  • 15 Heartache for Sale 3:06
  • 16 Drunkard's Lullaby 1:55
  • 17 House of Four Doors (End Theme) 0:46

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata