Ride the Tiger cover

Released 40 years ago

Ride the Tiger

Yo La Tengo · 1986

51 min · 15 tracks · indie rock

A swirling mix of jangly guitars and experimental noise that captures the essence of indie rock's evolving landscape.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short, punchy listening bursts
  • mellow, reflective moments
  • dynamic emotional contrasts
  • varied pacing throughout
  • exploratory soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 1986, 'Ride the Tiger' was Yo La Tengo's debut album, marking their entry into the indie rock scene. At this point, the band was still establishing their identity, experimenting with sound and style while building a loyal following through live performances.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Cone of Silence 2:49
  • 2 Big Sky 2:46
  • 3 The Evil That Men Do 4:11
  • 4 The Forest Green 3:23
  • 5 The Pain of Pain 5:35
  • 6 The Way Some People Die 3:37
  • 7 The Empty Pool 2:21
  • 8 Alrock's Bells 4:08
  • 9 Five Years 3:45
  • 10 Screaming Dead Balloons 3:17
  • 11 Living in the Country 2:14
  • 12 The River of Water 2:30
  • 13 A House Is Not a Motel 3:43
  • 14 Crispy Duck 3:04
  • 15 Closing Time 3:45

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata