The Band That Would Be King
Half Japanese · 1989
71 min · 42 tracks · alternative rock
A chaotic blend of lo-fi punk energy and whimsical storytelling, bursting with raw emotion and playful absurdity.
Top tracks — play these first
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Some Things Last a Long Time — This track contrasts simple melodies with introspective lyrics about enduring love, exemplifying the band's ability to evoke deep emotions within minimalist frameworks.
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Daytona Beach — Its energetic rhythm and playful lyrics encapsulate the carefree spirit of youth, making it a standout example of the band's signature blend of humor and punk attitude.
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Buried Treasure — The song employs a catchy hook and vivid imagery to explore themes of nostalgia and lost opportunities, highlighting the band's knack for storytelling.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- whimsical storytelling with energy
- short bursts of chaotic fun
- playful irreverence in every track
- for quick listening breaks
- quirky moments that invite laughter
Maybe skip if you
- prefer longer, cohesive albums
- seek polished, refined production
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1989, The Band That Would Be King marked Half Japanese's fourth studio album and came during a time when they were gaining recognition within the underground music scene. Following their previous album, Charmed Life (1988), this release solidified their distinctive sound that fused punk influences with experimental art rock elements, showcasing their unique approach to songwriting.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Residents· Captain Beefheart· Pavement
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Every Word Is True
A pivotal moment where the narrative shifts from playful banter to earnest confession, revealing deeper vulnerabilities.
This transition from lightheartedness to sincerity showcases Half Japanese's skill at weaving complex emotional layers into seemingly simple songs.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Open Your Eyes / Close Your Eyes 1:10
- 2 Daytona Beach 1:47
- 3 Lucky Star 2:22
- 4 Some Things Last a Long Time 2:20
- 5 My Most Embarrassing Moment 0:50
- 6 Buried Treasure 1:05
- 7 Open Book 1:01
- 8 Little Records 1:17
- 9 Deadly Alien Spawn 2:37
- 10 Postcard From Far Away 1:38
- 11 Ventriloquizm Made Easy 0:42
- 12 Something in the Wind 0:39
- 13 Bingo's Not His Name-O 1:20
- 14 Put Some Sugar on It 2:48
- 15 What More Can I Do 1:25
- 16 Brand New Moon 1:37
- 17 Another World 1:34
- 18 Every Word Is True 1:21
- 19 I Live for Love 2:07
- 20 Werewolf 1:30
- 21 Ride, Ride, Ride 0:31
- 22 Sugar Cane 2:31
- 23 I Wish I May 1:33
- 24 Ashes on the Ground 2:41
- 25 Curse of the Doll People 0:34
- 26 Horseshoes 2:12
- 27 Bluebirds 1:39
- 28 Frankenstein Meets Billy the Kid 0:57
- 29 My Bucket's Got a Hole in It 1:11
- 30 Africans Built the Pyramids 1:37
- 31 Better Than Before 2:00
- 32 Daytona 2:20
- 33 Back Home 2:39
- 34 Mule Skinner Blues 1:47
- 35 Sugar Cane 3:11
- 36 Jump Up 1:01
- 37 Postcard From Far Away 3:18
- 38 Big Wheels 2:13
- 39 Ordeal 2:14
- 40 Jump Down 1:27
- 41 Cowboys 1:19
- 42 Man Without a Head 1:11
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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