The Loved One

Description

Strange Boutique was born from the ashes of the punk scene in Washington DC. The singer Monica Richards (who later formed the legendary gothic band Faith and the Muse), drummer Danny Ingram, and guitarist Fred "Freak" Smith were looking to spread their wings beyond the hardcore scene they had helped nurture as members of the original DC punk bands: Madhouse, Youth Brigade, and Beefeater. After finding bassist Steve Willett, the band quickly developed a sound that soaked up the energy of the DC post-punk scene while embracing an unexpected melodic sensibility. Their energy on stage was electric and immediate; a combination of captive chaos (Fred), enchanting charm (Monica), and a blazing rhythm section (Danny and Steve) that made it all move. With acclaimed concerts, including a short tour in the UK opening for Killing Joke, Strange Boutique had found its own unique sound and entered the studio in February 1991 to record its long-awaited debut album, "The Loved One." The album, which included a new recording of their favorite 1989 EP "Quicksand Minds," was released on their own label Bedazzled Records in the fall of 1991. Creating their own eclectic brand of powerful ethereal pop, driven by guitar, with a touch of world music influence and mystical imagination, Strange Boutique had its own style. "The Loved One" was initially received by critics as "a swirling sound paradise - soaring guitars, ethereal vocals, and a thrilling rhythm section." In the years following its initial release, "The Loved One" attracted a new generation of fans, thanks to the resurgence of interest in original post-punk, as well as the viral and perpetual nature of social media. "The Loved One" includes the beloved viral song by Strange Boutique "Drown," as well as the defining tracks "A Happy Death," "We Treat The Blindness," and "Quicksand Minds." Remastered for vinyl by Pentagram Music, enjoy the ethereal wave/dream pop sound of Strange Boutique.