What makes The Speed of Cattle by Archers of Loaf notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics, underscoring the band's impact on the indie rock genre during the 90s. It helped solidify Archers of Loaf's reputation as pioneers within the alternative music movement, influencing bands that followed and contributing to the growing popularity of indie rock in mainstream culture. The Speed of Cattle is a compilation album released in 1996, following Archers of Loaf's critically acclaimed debut, Icky Mettle. By this time, the band had established themselves as key players in the indie rock scene, known for their inventive sound and disaffected lyrics. This release served to showcase their earlier work while solidifying their unique identity in the alternative music landscape.

Who is The Speed of Cattle for?

The Speed of Cattle works well if you're into dynamic flow with peaks, short bursts of energy and sardonic humor throughout tracks.

How many songs are on The Speed of Cattle?

The Speed of Cattle has 18 tracks, running approximately 60 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

The Speed of Cattle

Archers of Loaf · 1996

60 min · 18 tracks · indie rock

A whirlwind of angular guitars and frenetic rhythms captures the raw energy of 90s indie rock while exploring existential themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Web in Front — This track features jagged guitar lines and a catchy chorus that encapsulates the band's signature sound, blending urgency with introspection.
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Tatyana — With its complex structure and emotive lyrics, this song exemplifies Archers of Loaf's ability to fuse melody with a sense of chaos.
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Don’t Believe the Good News — This track stands out for its driving rhythm and sardonic lyrics, reflecting the band's unique blend of irony and earnestness.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic flow with peaks
short bursts of energy
sardonic humor throughout tracks
engaging for active listening
for afternoon drives

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek polished production quality

Where this album fits

Career context: The Speed of Cattle is a compilation album released in 1996, following Archers of Loaf's critically acclaimed debut, Icky Mettle. By this time, the band had established themselves as key players in the indie rock scene, known for their inventive sound and disaffected lyrics. This release served to showcase their earlier work while solidifying their unique identity in the alternative music landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: Superchunk· Guided by Voices· The Promise Ring