Album Info
| Artist: | Michelle Shocked |
| Album: | Short Sharp Shocked |
| Released: | Australia, 1988 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | When I Grow Up | 3:29 |
| A2 | Hello Hopeville | 2:54 |
| A3 | Memories Of East Texas | 3:33 |
| A4 | (Making The Run To) Gladewater | 3:03 |
| A5 | Graffiti Limbo | 3:37 |
| B1 | If Love Was A Train | 4:03 |
| B2 | Anchorage | 3:22 |
| B3 | The L & N Don't Stop Here Anymore | 4:07 |
| Written-By - Jean Ritchie | ||
| B4 | V.F.D. | 2:47 |
| B5 | Black Widow | 2:36 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Michelle Shocked's "Short Sharp Shocked," released in 1988, is a compelling blend of folk, rock, and punk influences that captures the spirit of its time while showcasing Shocked's unique voice and storytelling prowess. The album is notable for its raw, acoustic sound and its incisive, often politically charged lyrics, which reflect Shocked's own experiences and observations.
The album opens with "When I Grow Up," a track that sets the tone with its upbeat tempo and introspective lyrics. Shocked's voice is both strong and vulnerable, conveying a sense of youthful optimism tempered by a keen awareness of life's complexities. This duality is a recurring theme throughout the album, as Shocked navigates personal and social issues with a deft touch.
One of the standout tracks is "Anchorage," a song that became a hit and is perhaps the most well-known from the album. "Anchorage" tells the story of a long-distance friendship, capturing the bittersweet nature of growing apart while maintaining a connection. The song's catchy melody and relatable lyrics resonated with many listeners, helping to cement Shocked's place in the folk-rock genre.
Another significant track is "The L&N Don't Stop Here Anymore," a cover of a Jean Ritchie song that highlights Shocked's ability to reinterpret traditional folk music with a modern sensibility. Her rendition is both respectful of its roots and infused with her own distinctive style, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
"Short Sharp Shocked" was well-received by critics upon its release, praised for its authenticity and the way it captured the zeitgeist of the late 1980s. The album's production, handled by Pete Anderson, is stripped-down and organic, allowing Shocked's voice and guitar to take center stage. This minimalist approach enhances the album's intimate feel, drawing listeners into Shocked's world.
The album's cultural significance is also noteworthy. Released during a time of political and social upheaval, "Short Sharp Shocked" addresses issues such as gender roles, economic disparity, and personal freedom. Shocked's willingness to tackle these topics head-on, combined with her engaging storytelling, made the album resonate with a wide audience and contributed to its lasting impact.
In terms of accolades, "Short Sharp Shocked" helped Michelle Shocked gain recognition as a formidable talent in the music industry. While the album itself did not win major awards, it was instrumental in establishing her career and led to further opportunities, including subsequent albums that continued to explore similar themes.
Overall, "Short Sharp Shocked" is a powerful statement from an artist unafraid to speak her mind and challenge the status quo. Its blend of personal narrative and social commentary, delivered through a mix of folk, rock, and punk influences, makes it a standout album of its era. Michelle Shocked's ability to connect with listeners through her honest and insightful lyrics ensures that "Short Sharp Shocked" remains a relevant and influential work in the folk-rock canon.