Dada Albums and Songs: A Complete Guide
Introduction
Dada was an American alternative rock band that formed in 1992 in Los Angeles, California. The band consisted of Joie Calio (bass, vocals), Michael Gurley (guitar, vocals), and Phil Leavitt (drums, vocals). Throughout their career, Dada released five studio albums, including "Puzzle," "American Highway Flower," "El Subliminoso," "Dada," and "How to Be Found." This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the band’s albums and songs, as well as insight into their unique sound and style.
Studio Albums
Puddle (1992)
Background
"Puddle" was Dada’s debut album, released in 1992 on I.R.S. Records. The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Hollywood, California, between April and June 1992. Produced by Ken Scott, who had worked with David Bowie and The Beatles, the album blended alternative rock with jazz and pop elements.
Track Listings
- "Dorina" – 5:36
- "Mary Sunshine Rain" – 5:04
- "Dog" – 5:45
- "Dizz Knee Land" – 4:06
- "Surround" – 4:57
- "Here Today, Gone Tomorrow" – 4:06
- "Posters" – 3:25
- "Timothy" – 4:20
- "Dim" – 4:35
- "Who You Are" – 6:01
- "Puzzle" – 5:05
American Highway Flower (1994)
Background
"American Highway Flower" was Dada’s second studio album, released in 1994 on I.R.S. Records. The album was recorded at The Complex Studios in Los Angeles, California, and produced by Dada and Jerry Harrison, a former member of Talking Heads. The album further developed the band’s unique sound, incorporating more jazz and funk influences.
Track Listings
- "Ask the Dust" – 4:14
- "Feet to the Sun" – 3:54
- "All I Am" – 3:48
- "S.F. Bar ’63" – 5:08
- "Scum" – 4:11
- "Pretty Girls Make Graves" – 4:18
- "Green Henry" – 4:16
- "Real Soon" – 5:05
- "Feel Me Don’t You" – 4:15
- "Big Dipper" – 4:20
- "Flow" – 4:47
- "Sweet Dark Angel" – 5:20
- "Spirit of 2009" – 2:30
El Subliminoso (1996)
Background
"El Subliminoso" was Dada’s third studio album, released in 1996 on MCA Records. The album was recorded at Studio Ultimo in Los Angeles, California, and produced by Dada and Danny Kortchmar, who had previously worked with James Taylor and Don Henley. The album saw the band exploring even more experimental sounds, blending rock with jazz and psychedelic elements.
Track Listings
- "Time Is Your Friend" – 4:36
- "I Get High" – 4:11
- "Sick in Santorini" – 4:00
- "Information Undertow" – 4:32
- "California Gold" – 4:15
- "Bob the Drummer" – 3:36
- "Rise" – 3:51
- "I’m Feeling Nothing" – 5:14
- "Nothing Like You" – 4:07
- "Sweet Salvation" – 5:19
- "Guitar Girl" – 4:28
Dada (1998)
Background
"Dada" was the band’s self-titled album, released in 1998 on MCA Records. The album was recorded at Conway Recording Studios in Los Angeles, California, and produced by Danny Kortchmar. The album showcased the band’s maturing sound, with tighter arrangements and more introspective lyrics.
Track Listings
- "Dizz Knee Land (Acoustic)" – 4:06
- "This Thing Together" – 4:14
- "Spinning My Wheels" – 5:08
- "California Dreamin’" – 4:45
- "Papi" – 4:18
- "Baby Really Loves Me" – 3:56
- "Goodbye" – 3:41
- "Blue Girl" – 4:28
- "Going Under" – 3:42
- "Some Other Way" – 4:09
How to Be Found (2004)
Background
"How to Be Found" was an album by Dada, released in 2004 as a compilation of previously unreleased tracks. The songs on this album were recorded between 1997 and 2004 at various studios across Los Angeles, California. The album combined the band’s signature alternative rock sound with introspective lyrics and a focus on storytelling.
Track Listings
- "The Next Train Out of My Mind" – 4:01
- "How to Be Found" – 3:55
- "Guitar Girl (Acoustic Version)" – 4:05
- "Nothing Like You (Live)" – 4:21
- "S.F. Bar ’63 (Alternate Version)" – 5:05
- "Beauty and Sadness" – 4:47
- "Baby Really Loves Me (Demo)" – 3:58
- "Goodbye (Live)" – 4:02
- "Spinning My Wheels (Acoustic)" – 5:10
- "Dream Away" – 4:15
Conclusion
Dada’s albums and songs are a testament to the band’s creativity and versatility. From their early days as a alternative rock band to their experimental endeavors in the late 1990s, Dada’s music has captivated audiences and influenced a generation of musicians. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the band’s discography, highlighting their unique sound and style.
FAQs
Q: Who was Dada’s original lineup?
A: Dada’s original lineup consisted of Joie Calio (bass, vocals), Michael Gurley (guitar, vocals), and Phil Leavitt (drums, vocals).
Q: What was the biggest hit single from Dada’s album "Puzzle"?
A: "Dizz Knee Land" was the biggest hit single from "Puzzle," peaking at number five on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart.
Q: How many studio albums did Dada release?
A: Dada released five studio albums: "Puzzle," "American Highway Flower," "El Subliminoso," "Dada," and "How to Be Found."
Q: When was the album "How to Be Found" released?
A: "How to Be Found" was released in 2004, and it was a compilation of previously unreleased tracks.
Q: Is Dada still active?
A: Unfortunately, Dada is no longer an active band. The last known studio album was released in 2004.