Dive into the serene and introspective world of The Microphones with their seminal 2000 release, "It Was Hot, We Stayed in the Water." This album, originally released by K Records, is a captivating blend of slowcore and indie folk, recorded between September 1999 and March 2000 at Dub Narcotic in Olympia. Phil Elverum, the mastermind behind The Microphones, crafts a collection of songs that defy traditional rock conventions, offering a unique and accessible listening experience.
The album features eleven tracks, each contributing to a cohesive and immersive atmosphere. From the opening notes of "The Pull" to the closing strains of "Organs," the listener is taken on a journey through various moods and textures. Standout tracks like "Ice" and "Sand" showcase the band's ability to create hauntingly beautiful melodies, while "Karl Blau" and "Drums" highlight the raw, organic sound that defines the album.
"Between Your Ear and the Other Ear" is a particularly noteworthy track, blending intricate instrumentation with Elverum's introspective lyrics. The album's title track, "It Was Hot, We Stayed in the Water," encapsulates the album's themes of subjection and liberation, weaving through warm tides and icy depths with a sense of poetic grace.
"it Was Hot, We Stayed in the Water" is a study in contrast, moving seamlessly from moments of quiet reflection to bursts of energetic expression. The album's production, recorded over several months, captures the essence of The Microphones' unique sound, making it a timeless addition to any music collection.