Across the Universe (album)
Trip Shakespeare's major-label debut album from 1990.
Across the Universe is a 1990 album by Trip Shakespeare, marking the band's first release on A&M Records after signing with the major label earlier that year.
Quick Facts
- Artist
- Trip Shakespeare
- Released
- 1990
- Studio
- Paisley Park (Chanhassen, Minnesota)
- Genre
- Alternative rock
- Length
- 40:55
- Label
- A&M
- Producer
- Fred Maher and Trip Shakespeare
Facts from the source article.
Title
The album title references a Beatles song, reflecting lead songwriter Matt Wilson's affinity for that band. Wilson contrasted the Beatles' approach with the simple three-chord rock of Keith Richards, stating that his group aimed for epic, layered music that could be appreciated on multiple levels.
Reaction
Trouser Press praised the album as a rare instance of an indie act benefiting from major-label treatment, noting an increased rock edge that preserved the gentle charm of songs like "Snow Days" and "The Crane." Newsday admired the original melodies and oddball lyrics but criticized the jokey tone and overbaked singing. The Toronto Star found the album odd but completely engaging.
Songs
The album opens with "Turtledove," a love song from the perspective of a male bird. "Pearle" is a murder ballad rerecorded from the band's debut Applehead Man; Trouser Press noted the new version showed increased confidence and rock edge. "Snow Days" is an eccentric blues about a blizzard shutting down school, evoking Minnesota winter childhood; bassist John Munson recalled that snow seemed to fall whenever they worked on it, and Matt Wilson noted snow in New York on Thanksgiving during mixing. "Drummer Like Me" captures the social misfortunes of the least-respected band member. "The Slacks" is a naughty dance song about a one-eyed lady from France with a weakness for magic trousers. "Honey Tree" features lyrics co-written by Matt and Dan Wilson, the first Trip Shakespeare words not solely by Matt; Dan described the honey tree as a place beyond this world, real like a dream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who produced Across the Universe (album)?
Across the Universe was produced by Fred Maher and Trip Shakespeare.
What genre is Across the Universe (album)?
Across the Universe is classified as Alternative rock.
How long is Across the Universe (album)?
Across the Universe runs 40:55.
More in A&M Records Albums
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