The Paranoid Style
Known Associates
Bar/None
The Paranoid Style is one of the most literate bands producing rock and roll today. Band leader Elizabeth Nelson is probably better known for her contributions to The Atlantic, The New Yorker, and Oxford American. To add to their scholarly vibe, the group is named after Richard J. Hofstadter’s influential 1964 Harper’s Magazine essay, “The Paranoid Style In American Politics.” Nelson’s lyrics are insightful observations on the fucked up world we live in.
To realize her vision, Nelson and guitarist husband Timothy Bracy surrounded themselves with a team of equally talented players. Drummer Jon Langmead played with Jennifer O’Connor and Mark Eitzel. Michael Venutolo-Mantovani fronted the band Everyman and also writes for National Geographic. William Matheny has his own solo career, and then there is guitarist, producer, songwriter Peter Holsapple, from the dB’s.
Several of the songs on Known Associates are about other musicians. “Tearing the Ticket” is an elegy for guitarists Danny Gatton and Roy Buchanan, and in a way, everyone who puts in their time, pays their dues, and still can’t escape the grind. “Elegant Bachelors” is something of a character study inspired by Don Henley. “It’s a Dog’s Breakfast” is dedicated to Linda Ronstadt.
Nelson is a keen observer of our society and doesn’t hold back with criticism. “A Barrier to Entry” deals with lack of upward mobility in American society. There are so many things that can get you stuck in a dead-end life. “You’ve got demerits on your record, it’s a barrier to entry.” Frustration is also the theme of “DFL.” It tells of trying as hard as you can and still coming in dead fucking last. The rockabilly tinged “Shut Up and Deal” is a fatalistic ode to just getting on with things. The game may be rigged, but it’s the only game in town.
The Paranoid Style are definitely too smart for the pop charts. Here’s hoping they find their audience through college and community radio and word of mouth.
