Supergrass - I Should Coco (LP)

Supergrass burst onto the Britpop scene in the mid-90s with their debut album, "I Should Coco," released in 1995. This album is a vibrant snapshot of youthful exuberance, capturing the essence of a generation that was ready to embrace life with open arms. From the very first notes of the opening track, "Caught by the Fuzz," it’s clear that Supergrass is not just another band; they are a force of nature, blending catchy melodies with a raw, infectious energy that makes you want to jump up and dance.

The album is a delightful mix of punk, pop, and rock, showcasing the band's ability to craft songs that are both fun and meaningful. "Caught by the Fuzz" sets the tone perfectly, with its driving beat and cheeky lyrics about youthful misadventures. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the thrill of being young and reckless. The infectious chorus is impossible to resist, and it’s no wonder this track became a fan favorite, often played at their live shows.

One of the standout tracks on the album is undoubtedly "Alright," which became an anthem for the Britpop movement. With its jangly guitars and upbeat tempo, it encapsulates the carefree spirit of the 90s. The lyrics, celebrating friendship and the joys of youth, are delivered with such enthusiasm that it’s hard not to smile while listening. The song’s success was reflected in its chart performance, reaching the top 2 in the UK Singles Chart and solidifying Supergrass's place in the Britpop pantheon.

The production on "I Should Coco" is another highlight, with the band working alongside producer Mike Hedges, known for his work with The Cure and Manic Street Preachers. Hedges brought a polished yet vibrant sound to the album, allowing the band’s youthful energy to shine through without losing the raw edge that makes their music so appealing. The use of layered harmonies and catchy hooks throughout the album creates a rich listening experience that keeps you coming back for more.

Tracks like "Lenny" and "Mansize Rooster" further showcase the band’s knack for storytelling through music. "Lenny" is a quirky, almost whimsical track that tells the tale of a character who seems to embody the carefree spirit of the band itself. Meanwhile, "Mansize Rooster" features a more aggressive sound, with its driving rhythm and cheeky lyrics that poke fun at the absurdities of life. These songs highlight the band’s versatility and their ability to shift between different moods and styles seamlessly.

Critics at the time praised "I Should Coco" for its infectious energy and clever songwriting. Publications like NME and The Guardian lauded the album, with NME even naming it one of the best albums of the year. The album’s cultural significance cannot be overstated; it arrived at a time when Britpop was at its peak, and Supergrass, with their youthful charm and catchy tunes, became one of the defining bands of the era.

In interviews, the band members have reflected on the making of the album with fondness, recalling the excitement of being young and in the studio, creating music that felt fresh and alive. They’ve mentioned how the album was a product of their experiences growing up in Oxford, and how their surroundings influenced their sound and lyrics. This authenticity resonates throughout the album, making it feel genuine and relatable.

"I Should Coco" is not just an album; it’s a celebration of youth, friendship, and the joy of living in the moment. It captures a specific time and place in music history, and its impact is still felt today. Listening to it is like taking a trip back to the 90s, where the world felt full of possibilities and every day was an adventure waiting to happen. Supergrass may have started as a group of teenagers with a dream, but with "I Should Coco," they created a timeless classic that continues to inspire new generations of music lovers.