High/Low is the debut studio album by the American band Nada Surf, released in 1996. It contains the hit single "Popular". High/Low was produced by Ric Ocasek. Nada Surf supported it by touring with Superdrag and the Gravel Pit.
Critical reception
The Baltimore Sun noted that "there's an almost elegant austerity to the album's sound, but what ultimately brings the songs into focus is the band's ultra-efficient playing, which is so sparing you'd think the recording studio charged them by the note." The Ottawa Citizen concluded that Nada Surf "may have been moulded by a superior studio presence, but the root of their sound, guitar-driven and heavy on the backbeat, speaks of an energy that was harnessed and focused, not manufactured."
Track listing All tracks written by Matthew Caws and Daniel Lorca, except where noted. "Deeper Well" – 3:55 - written by Caws, Lorca and Robert Randall "The Plan" – 4:31 "Popular" – 3:48 - written by Caws, Lorca and Gloria Winters "Sleep" – 3:47 "Stalemate" – 3:38 "Treehouse" – 2:43 "Icebox" – 3:17 "Psychic Caramel" – 4:00 "Hollywood" – 2:20 "Zen Brain" – 4:28
Personnel Nada Surf
Matthew Caws – guitar, vocals Daniel Lorca – bass Ira Elliot – drums
Production
Bruce Calder – engineer, mixer George Marino – mastering Ric Ocasek – producer Andy Salas – assistant engineer
Charts Album YearChartPeak position1996Billboard 20063 Singles YearSongChartPosition1996"Popular"Billboard Modern Rock Tracks11
References