In the Aeroplane Over the Sea

Neutral Milk Hotel

Released: 1998

Runtime: 39:54 / 11 Tracks

Genre: Indie Rock, Psychedelic Folk, Lo-Fi

My Thoughts:

“In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” is the critically acclaimed second album by the indie rock band Neutral Milk Hotel, released in 1998. The album is known for its unique blend of lo-fi and folk elements, as well as its deeply emotional and enigmatic lyrics. It’s often considered a quintessential example of indie music.

The album’s sound is characterized by Jeff Mangum’s raw and emotive vocals, accompanied by a variety of instruments including acoustic guitar, horns, and accordions. The production style is intentionally rough, adding to the album’s intimate and DIY aesthetic.

Thematically, the album is inspired by Anne Frank’s diary and explores themes of love, loss, and existentialism. Mangum’s lyrics are cryptic and surreal, often combining vivid imagery with abstract concepts.

Track Highlights:

In the Aeroplane Over the Sea

Holland 1945

[untitled]

About the Artist:

Neutral Milk Hotel is an American indie rock band formed by singer, songwriter, and guitarist Jeff Mangum in the early 1990s. The band’s lineup has included various members over the years, but the core members have included Mangum, Scott Spillane, Julian Koster, and Jeremy Barnes.

Neutral Milk Hotel gained significant recognition with the release of their second album, “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea,” in 1998. The album received widespread critical acclaim for its innovative sound and deeply emotive lyrics. However, after the release of “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea,” Neutral Milk Hotel went on hiatus, and Jeff Mangum withdrew from the public eye for many years.

Despite their relatively short-lived career, Neutral Milk Hotel’s influence on indie rock and alternative music has been profound, and “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” is often regarded as a classic of the genre.

Acknowledged Influences:

The Elephant 6 Collective
The Beach Boys
R.E.M.
The Velvet Underground

Week 12: 3/18/2024