Record of the Week: The Stooges – Funhouse
Before the safety pins and the mohawks of the late 70s, there was Iggy Pop and The Stooges. While they are rightfully celebrated as the godfathers of proto-punk, their second album, Funhouse, proves they were much more than just a loud garage band.
Raw Energy Captured Live
Recorded at Elektra Studios right here in Los Angeles, Funhouse wasn’t built through meticulous overdubbing. The band recorded the album live, focusing on one song per day to capture the raw, unhinged energy of their live performances. The result is an album that feels dangerous, intense, and dripping with attitude.
A Fusion of Chaos
What makes Funhouse a masterpiece is its sonic depth. Beyond the iconic riffs, you’ll find a swirl of psychedelic exploration and, in tracks like “L.A. Blues,” a stark free-jazz influence that pushes the music into the stratosphere. It’s a primal scream captured on tape—a sonic blueprint for every “alternative” movement that followed.
Essential Listening
If you want to experience the power of The Stooges at their peak, start with these highlights:
“Down On The Street”: A heavy, grooving opener that sets a gritty urban tone.
“Loose”: Pure, high-octane rock and roll energy.
“TV Eye”: Featuring one of the most ferocious vocal performances and guitar riffs in history.
💿 Get Loud with The Daytime High
Influenced by the raw spirit of the greats, the debut album from The Daytime High is out now! We’re keeping the DIY energy alive with our own blend of heavy riffs and modern melody. Give us a listen and let us know what you think.
Listen here: