Description
Aunt Bettys: Self-Titled | Alternative Rock CD
Product Information
- UPC: 075596189026
- Catalog Number: 61890-2
- Product Type: Music CD
- Genre: Alternative/Hard Rock
- Format: Audio CD
- Release Date: 1996
- Publisher: Elektra Entertainment Group/EastWest Records America
- Label: EastWest Records America
Overview
"Aunt Bettys" is the self-titled debut album from the alternative rock band fronted by the enigmatic Michael Knott, released in 1996 on Elektra Entertainment's EastWest imprint. This 16-track collection showcases Knott's distinctive songwriting and vocal style alongside the powerful musicianship of Andrew Carter (lead guitar), Brian Doidge (bass), and Chuck Cummings (drums). The album blends raw, guitar-driven alternative rock with elements of hard rock, post-punk, and grunge, creating a sound that's both aggressive and melodic. Lyrically, the album explores themes of addiction, spirituality, alienation, and human frailty through Knott's characteristically honest and sometimes provocative perspective. Standout tracks include the driving opener "Jesus," the punk-influenced "Mother Trucker," the reflective "Rocket & A Bomb," and the haunting "Jane." Produced by Knott himself alongside Gene Eugene and Mark Rodriguez, the album captures the band's energetic live sound while adding textural depth and sonic complexity.
Product Features
- Format: Standard audio CD
- Content: 16 original tracks
- Musical Style: Alternative rock with hard rock and post-punk influences
- Performers: Full band lineup featuring Michael Knott, Andrew Carter, Brian Doidge, and Chuck Cummings
- Production Team: Co-produced by Michael Knott, Gene Eugene, and Mark Rodriguez
- Recording Information: Primarily recorded at The Green Room, Huntington Beach, CA with additional mixing at The Sound Kitchen, Nashville, TN
- Artwork: Features illustration by Tim Okamura and photography by Jon Gipe
- Executive Producer: Lara Hill
Interesting Facts
Michael Knott's Major Label Breakthrough
This self-titled Aunt Bettys album represented a significant milestone in Michael Knott's musical career as his first major label release after years of recording for independent labels. Prior to Aunt Bettys, Knott had built a dedicated following through his work with bands like Lifesavers Underground (LSU) and his prolific solo output, developing a reputation for brutally honest lyrics and a willingness to explore themes often considered taboo in the Christian rock scene where he had roots. The signing to Elektra/EastWest followed a bidding war between multiple major labels, signaling the industry recognition of Knott's unique artistic vision and the band's powerful sound. This album represented the culmination of years of artistic development and persistence in the underground music scene.
A Unique Musical Fusion
Aunt Bettys created a distinctive sound that drew from multiple rock subgenres while maintaining its own identity. The band combined the raw energy and attitude of punk with the melodic sensibilities of alternative rock, the heaviness of grunge, and occasional acoustic elements that showcased Knott's singer-songwriter abilities. This eclectic approach is evident in the album's sequencing, which shifts from high-energy rockers like "Mother Trucker" to more introspective pieces like "Rocket & A Bomb" without losing cohesion. The production team of Knott, Gene Eugene (a respected figure in alternative music who worked with many boundary-pushing artists), and Mark Rodriguez captured this dynamic range while maintaining the urgency and authenticity of the band's performance style.
Critical Recognition Amidst Industry Changes
Aunt Bettys emerged during a transitional period in alternative rock, as the post-grunge era was giving way to new movements in the genre. Despite the shifting musical landscape, the album received positive critical reception for its authenticity, songcraft, and Knott's distinctive lyrical approach. However, like many artistic rock releases of the mid-90s, the album faced challenges in the increasingly hit-driven major label system. While it may not have achieved mainstream commercial success, it has maintained a dedicated following among alternative rock aficionados and collectors who appreciate its uncompromising artistic vision. The album stands as a document of a band unwilling to water down their sound to chase trends, creating music that continues to resonate with listeners seeking substance and authenticity in rock music.
Track Listing
- Jesus (3:36)
- Mother Trucker (3:00)
- Star Baby (1:48)
- Skinny Bones Jones (3:35)
- Lush (3:31)
- Feel (3:48)
- Rocket & A Bomb (4:47)
- Addict (2:06)
- Speeder Mode (2:53)
- Kitty Courtesy (3:06)
- Little Fighter (3:36)
- Suicide Sex Doll (2:09)
- Jane (3:11)
- Cruel (1:37)
- Double (3:25)
- Rock And Roll (2:17)
Musicians and Contributors
Band Members:
- Michael Knott: Vocals, Acoustic guitar
- Andrew Carter: Lead Guitar, Background vocals
- Brian Doidge: Bass, Background vocals
- Chuck Cummings: Drums, Percussion
Production:
- Produced, engineered and mixed by Michael Knott, Gene Eugene and Mark Rodriguez
- Executive Producer: Lara Hill
- Additional Engineers: Kevin Leonard and Bob Moon
- Mastered by Brian Gardner at Bernie Grundman Mastering, Los Angeles
Creative Team:
- Management: Cahn-Man
- Art Direction: Jennifer Roddie
- Illustration: Tim Okamura
- Photography: Jon Gipe
Songwriting Credits
All songs written by Michael Knott except "Addict," which was written by Michael Knott and Brian Doidge. All songs © 1996 Almo Music Corp/Stormie Lane Music ASCAP.
Publishers
© 1996 Elektra Entertainment Group. A Division of Warner Communications Inc. for the United States and WEA International Inc. for the world outside of the United States.
Pressed by Specialty Records Corporation.
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