While You Were Out cover

While You Were Out

Soul Asylum · 1986

33 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

Raw, energetic alternative rock with gritty lyrics and a punk-inspired ethos reflects the band's emerging sound.

Why this album works

'While You Were Out' marked a significant step for Soul Asylum as it helped them gain a foothold in the alternative rock genre. The album's single 'Carry On' received airplay on college radio, contributing to the band's growing reputation and paving the way for their later commercial success, particularly with the hit album 'Grave Dancer's Union' in 1992.
Career context
Released in 1986, 'While You Were Out' is Soul Asylum's second album, following their debut 'Say What You Will, Clarence...'. At this point in their career, the band was still establishing their identity within the burgeoning alternative rock scene, transitioning from their punk roots to a more melodic sound that would later define their breakout success.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Freaks Standout 3:27
  • 2 Carry On Standout 2:21
  • 3 No Man's Land 2:56
  • 4 Crashing Down 2:16
  • 5 The Judge 3:09
  • 6 Sun Don't Shine 2:45
  • 7 Closer to the Stars 2:51
  • 8 Never Too Soon 2:59
  • 9 Miracle Mile Standout 2:16
  • 10 Lap of Luxury 1:53
  • 11 Passing Sad Daydream 6:13

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata