Released 30 years ago
Shot
The Jesus Lizard · 1996
42 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock
A raw and relentless exploration of noise rock, blending chaotic instrumentation with visceral vocals to create an unsettling atmosphere.
Top tracks — play these first
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Blue Shot — This track showcases the band's signature chaotic style while highlighting David Yow's feral vocal delivery that captures the essence of their sound.
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Good Riddance — With its driving rhythm and relentless energy, this song exemplifies the band's ability to blend abrasive noise with catchy hooks.
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Mailman — The track combines haunting lyrics with an unsettling musical backdrop, making it a standout moment that encapsulates the album's overall tension.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's raw energy and unique sound solidify its place in noise rock, though it may not appeal to all listeners.
What we noticed
- Vocals often intertwine with the instrumentation rather than standing apart, creating a dense soundscape that demands attention.
- Several tracks feature abrupt tempo shifts and dissonant chord progressions, contributing to an unsettling atmosphere throughout the record.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- steady mid-tempo exploration
- visceral energy for catharsis
- chaotic riffs with jagged edges
- engaging in-order listening experience
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer polished, smooth sounds
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1996, Shot was The Jesus Lizard's fourth studio album, following their critically acclaimed record, Liar. At this point in their career, the band had established a strong underground following and were known for their intense live performances, cementing their status within the alternative rock scene.
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Good Riddance
The verses build toward a climax where the narrative voice shifts from sarcasm to direct confrontation, intensifying the emotional impact.
This structural shift creates a sense of urgency and bitterness that contrasts sharply with the earlier playful tone, emphasizing the album's themes of disillusionment.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Thumper 3:31
- 2 Blue Shot 4:13
- 3 Thumbscrews 3:10
- 4 Good Riddance 3:15
- 5 Mailman 3:26
- 6 Skull of a German 3:42
- 7 Trephination 3:34
- 8 More Beautiful Than Barbie 2:50
- 9 Too Bad About the Fire 4:00
- 10 Churl 2:53
- 11 Now Then 2:34
- 12 Inamorata 3:05
- 13 Pervertedly Slow 2:40
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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