Squint cover

Squint

Steve Taylor · 1993

43 min · 10 tracks · Christian alternative rock

A blend of satirical lyrics and eclectic rock sounds, infused with a sharp sense of humor and social commentary.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Jesus Is for Losers — This track stands out for its biting critique of societal perceptions of Christianity, blending humor with poignant commentary on faith's authenticity.
  • →
    Lament of Desmond R. G. Underwood–Frederick IV — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its theatrical storytelling and satirical examination of self-importance in contemporary culture.
  • →
    Curses — In 'Curses', Taylor tackles the topic of language and morality, using witty wordplay to highlight hypocrisy within both secular and religious contexts.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album blends clever lyrics with eclectic rock sounds, showcasing Taylor's unique style and social commentary.

What we noticed

  • The first track features a spoken-word intro that sets a satirical tone, followed by a shift into a driving rock rhythm.
  • Several tracks incorporate unexpected tempo changes, such as 'Cash Cow', which transitions between different musical styles within its three acts.
  • Lyrically, the album employs humor and irony, with songs like 'Jesus Is for Losers' using sharp commentary to engage listeners.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • sharp satirical humor throughout
  • pacing shifts keep engagement
  • thought-provoking social commentary
  • playful irreverence in delivery
  • varied track lengths surprise

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward lyrical themes
  • avoid complex narrative structures

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1993, Squint marked Steve Taylor's return after a seven-year hiatus following his last studio album, I Want to Be a Clone. This album showcased Taylor's unique blend of Christian themes and alternative rock, positioning him as a distinct voice in the genre during a time when mainstream acceptance of such music was growing.
Stylistic neighbors
Daniel Amos· The Choir· Lost Dogs

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Lament of Desmond R. G. Underwood–Frederick IV 4:02
  • 2 Bannerman 3:14
  • 3 Smug 4:23
  • 4 Jesus Is for Losers 4:18
  • 5 The Finish Line 5:28
  • 6 The Moshing Floor 4:01
  • 7 Easy Listening 3:42
  • 8 Curses 3:55
  • 9 Sock Heaven 4:49
  • 10 Cash Cow (A Rock Opera in Three Small Acts) 5:37

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata