Unwound
"Fiction Friction" is a song by the influential post-hardcore band Unwound. The track appears on their second studio album, New Plastic Ideas, which was released on March 21, 1994, by Kill Rock Stars. "Fiction Friction" stands out for its intense, driving sound and emotionally charged lyrics, embodying the dissonant and innovative style that defined Unwound's early work.
Key Facts
- Artist: Unwound
- Album: New Plastic Ideas
- Release Date: March 21, 1994
- Track Length: 6:38
- Genre: Post-hardcore, noise rock
- Label: Kill Rock Stars
Musical Style & Features
- Characterized by angular guitar riffs, complex rhythms, and emotionally raw vocals.
- The song features dynamic tempo shifts and a mixture of melodic and abrasive textures.
- Unwound's lineup on this track includes Justin Trosper (guitar, vocals), Vern Rumsey (bass), and Sara Lund (drums).
- The energetic, slightly chaotic interplay of instruments captures the band's signature blend of punk urgency and experimental structure.
Lyrical Snapshot
- The lyrics of "Fiction Friction" evoke themes of alienation and the disconnection between reality and perception. While interpretations vary, the song's imagery and delivery amplify the feeling of a world set off-kilter.
It's a shattered day all around
It's a shattered day in our town
Seems wrong
It's a saturnday all...
(Lyrics excerpt reflects the mood but is truncated here for copyright reasons.)
Context and Reception
- "Fiction Friction" regularly appears on lists of Unwound's most notable tracks, praised for both its craftsmanship and emotional impact.
- The album New Plastic Ideas is widely regarded as a milestone in 1990s underground rock, influencing a range of post-hardcore and noise rock acts.
- The band often performed the song live, with recordings of shows from 1994 indicating its popularity among fans.
Listen
- You can find "Fiction Friction" on digital platforms such as Spotify and Bandcamp, and the track is also featured in live performance footage from the 1990s.
"Fiction Friction" encapsulates Unwound's raw sound and uncompromising approach, making it a defining piece of their classic album New Plastic Ideas and a staple of indie and alternative rock playlists."
