Ep.53 – Screamadelica (Primal Scream)
Episode 53: Screamadelica (Primal Scream). McCartney In Goal is the podcast that debates the great albums of pop music, using a competitive knock-out format. Today we’re discussing, Screamadelica which was the third studio album by Scottish rock/indie band Primal Scream. It was first released on 23 September 1991 in the United Kingdom. The album includes “Loaded”, “Movin’ On Up”, “Come Together” and “Higher Than The Sun”.
How did a remix transform a rock band into dance music pioneers? In our latest episode, we embark on a spirited journey through Primal Scream’s iconic album “Screamadelica.” Set against the backdrop of September 1991—a month that birthed Nirvana’s “Nevermind” and the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Blood Sugar Sex Magik”—we reminisce about our teenage years and debate which album truly defined the era. With a playful quiz on the band’s roots, we explore their ties with figures like Bobby Gillespie and Alan McGee, and the influence of the UK indie and Acid House scenes, all peppered with tales of our adolescent awkwardness.
Our discussion takes a lively turn as we dissect the album’s eclectic nature, bouncing between gospel-infused anthems and psychedelic dance tracks. We engage in a humorous yet passionate debate over whether “Screamadelica” should be considered a concept album, reminiscent of a journey through a weekend’s highs and lows. We even engage in a cheeky saxophone solo showdown, diving into differing tastes in jazz and musical complexity, while reflecting on the transformative power of tracks like “Moving On Up” and “Slip Inside This House.”
No conversation about “Screamadelica” would be complete without celebrating the profound impact of Andy Weatherall. We dive into his pivotal role in reshaping the band’s sound with remixes like “Loaded,” and ponder how his collaboration with Bobby Gillespie and Andrew Innes forged a legacy that won the 1992 Mercury Prize. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, our exploration promises not just entertainment but a deep appreciation for an album that remains a defining piece of ’90s musical history.