Strange but True
Jad Fair · 1998
40 min · 22 tracks · alternative rock
Quirky storytelling collides with lo-fi instrumentation, creating a whimsical and offbeat listening experience that feels both playful and surreal.
Top tracks — play these first
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Texas Man Abducted by Aliens for Outer Space Joy Ride — This track encapsulates the album's playful absurdity, presenting a narrative that is both humorous and imaginative, reflecting Fair's distinctive songwriting style.
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Clever Chemist Makes Chewing Gum from Soap — The comedic premise highlights Fair's knack for combining everyday scenarios with outrageous twists, showcasing his ability to turn mundane concepts into engaging stories.
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Embarrassed Teen Accidentally Uses Valuable Rare Postage Stamp — This track stands out for its relatability and humor, capturing the awkwardness of adolescence while cleverly weaving in an unexpected twist.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- whimsical narratives that amuse
- short bursts of playful absurdity
- quirky storytelling for lighthearted moments
- for casual listening sessions
- ideal for fans of humor
Maybe skip if you
- prefer serious, profound themes
- seek long, cohesive compositions
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By the release of 'Strange but True' in 1998, Jad Fair was already an established figure in alternative rock, known for his work with Half Japanese. This album followed his prolific output during the late '80s and early '90s, showcasing his unique blend of absurdity and charm while continuing to explore unconventional narratives.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Daniel Johnston· The Mountain Goats· They Might Be Giants
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Helpful Monkey Wallpapers Entire Home 2:06
- 2 Texas Man Abducted by Aliens for Outer Space Joy Ride 2:36
- 3 National Sports Association Hires Retired English Professor to Name New Wrestling Holds 2:32
- 4 Dedicated Thespian Has Teeth Pulled to Play Newborn Baby in High School Play 1:38
- 5 Three‐Year‐Old Genius Graduates High School at Top of Her Class 1:17
- 6 Embarrassed Teen Accidentally Uses Valuable Rare Postage Stamp 2:48
- 7 Principal Punishes Students with Bad Impressions and Tired Jokes 1:24
- 8 Retired Grocer Constructs Tiny Mount Rushmore Entirely of Cheese 1:50
- 9 X‐ray Reveals Doctor Left Wristwatch Inside Patient 0:50
- 10 Clumsy Grandmother Serves Delicious Dessert by Mistake #2 1:00
- 11 Retired Woman Starts New Career in Monkey Fashions 1:35
- 12 Circus Strongman Runs for PTA President 3:19
- 13 High School Shop Class Constructs Bicycle Built for 26 1:31
- 14 Clumsy Grandmother Serves Delicious Dessert by Mistake #1 1:21
- 15 Ohio Town Saved From Killer Bees by Hungry Vampire Bats 2:26
- 16 Nevada Man Invents Piano with 21 Extra Keys 1:10
- 17 Clever Chemist Makes Chewing Gum from Soap 1:59
- 18 Minnesota Man Claims Monkey Bowled Perfect Game 1:34
- 19 Ingenious Scientist Invents Car of the Future 1:28
- 20 Car Gears Stick in Reverse, Daring Driver Crosses Town Backwards 1:48
- 21 Shocking Fashion Statement Terrorizes Town 1:56
- 22 Feisty Millionaire Fills Potholes with Hundred‐Dollar Bills 2:40
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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