Pigeonhed

This debut from Seattle collective Pigeonhed is a purposefully eclectic and funky outing featuring co-creators Shawn Smith (Satchel, Brad) and grunge producer extraordinaire Steve Fisk (Nirvana, Soundgarden, Screaming Trees, etc.). Branching way out for influences and sonic textures on this eponymous 1993 Sub Pop debut, the pair of highly respected artists put together a detailed and evocative landscape that was praised by critics for its rich material and sweeping yet earthy sound. Smith's exceptionally soulful voice is haunting, rich, and especially effective on standouts like "Her" and "Grace," while Fisk's compositional and production chops are shown off nicely on the retro funk of "Lovely Lines" and the more modern electronic trip, "Theme From Pigeonhed." Other highlights include the soothing and experimental "Trial by Sex" and "Grace." A spectacular debut from two of the Pacific Northwest's most committed artists, Pigeonhed plays like a neo-R&B joyride filtered through Pink Floyd-esque mood swings and some genuinely alternative electronics.