While The Fab Four will forever live dormant in the complex paradox vortex Herpes simplex of being both mainstream as it gets by every stretch or measure, and underrated by every portion of your lack of imagination, even their least popular full-length studio album, likely “Yellow Submarine” or “Beatles For Sale” cannot be listed here for legal or notary purposes. Same goes for the mall screamo sensations known as The Beach Boys, and heavy, heavy grindcore icon Katy “Blegh” Perry. However, the ten records that we deem most underappreciated from Capitol Records are. Spoiler alert: SOME are from large bands, but ALL are underrated LPs. “I” may have prevailed much, much more than “static,” but you’re so much more highly evolved than 2017 mainstage Taylor Swift cover bands could ever be, so break down the paper walls and yell till the balloon pops!
Blind Melon “Soup” (1995)
Let’s start with something sad, as things can only go up from here: The alternative rock and children bumblebee communities lost a real one when Blind Melon’s vocalist Shannon Hoon left this earth, and “Soup,” the band’s sophomore full-length studio album, was the band’s last to be released whilst Hoon was a living breathing thing on this earth. While it is nearly impossible for any band to have a sequel that did commercially better than Blind Melon’s breakout debut LP, this one definitely deserved almost as many sales and way, way better reviews. Thankfully it’s more of a grower than a shower, and “Soup” has achieved the fanfare it deserved from the same people that say things like “I don’t really like The Beatles.” Plus, how badass is the album cover? Also, remember hidden tracks that start before an album a la another Capitol Records release called “Losing Streak” by Less Than Jake. If not, we’re boomers, besties.
The F-Ups “Self-Titled” (2004)
Minnesota is for punks, and The F-Ups showed the world that Rochester was also a solid breeding ground for rock acts, despite not being Rochester, New York, home to both the garbage plate and The House of Guitars. It’s quite ballsy for a band to have a cover of a revered song like Mott the Hoople’s “All The Young Dudes,” and it is even riskier for a band to cover a cover that has been covered before in mainstream fashion like World Party did on the “Clueless” soundtrack, but The F-Ups are full of stones. Anyway, The F-Ups’ opening track on this LP, “Lazy Generation,” was featured in several video games, but sadly, the band split two years after their debut LP. Happily, they reunited in 2020, so look at your son now!
Jimmy Eat World “Static Prevails” (1996)
“Clarity” is typically the oldest JEW, yes, JEW album to be namechecked publicly, but “Static Prevails” deserves your time as well for many reasons. First off, “Claire,” track three right here, is a top ten Jimmy Eat World song. Secondly, while he sang lead for less and less JEW songs and records in succession, guitarist Tom Linton got ample vocal lead time to shine on half of the tracks, and his voice provided a counterpart and some diversity to crooner Jim Adkins. Lastly, despite not being in Drop D, it’s the band’s heaviest and most angular album. So pretend that you’re listening to Drive Like Jehu, never stop thinking AT all, and triple the fook out of anything fast or actionable.
Mae “Singularity” (2007)
After two critically and commercially successful full-length efforts, the emo/rock masterpiece, “Destination: Beautiful,” and the ambitiously orchestral, “The Everglow” LPs, for indie Tooth & Nail, Mae was hyped and poised for mainstream success with their major label debut “Singularity.” However, somehow somewhere something and somebody it failed before it ever had a chance, and said stat was catastrophic for Mae causing the band to lose key members and eventually break up. Even though they formed a few years later, the band would never rise to the heights of “The Everglow” and wouldn’t rock as hard as they did on the album’s single “Sometimes I Can’t Make It Alone.” Perhaps the record was too mainstream/Warped Tour for Mae’s “cool” listeners who were neither cool or hot, or possibly, these little twerps scoffed at the sight and thought of said band selling their souls to a major label.
OK Go “Self-Titled” (2002)
OK Go’s music videos involving treadmills, and attention to detail may have gotten more attention than this self-titled release, but their debut self–titled LP is a power-pop/pop-rock masterpiece front to back, and easily our favorite from the band that seemingly quintupled to the quintuple power in fame with their sophomore album, “Oh No,” and particularly via the band’s hit, “Here It Goes Again”. Oh no is literally right on all fronts as this one should’ve gotten way, way more fanfare than it had. What to do? Well the fix is in, as you’re so damn hot, and we want you to travel back to 2002, a much simpler time, and rock out to all twelve tracks one at a time for all flowers, returns, and white uncolored automobiles.
Relient K “Five Score and Seven Years Ago” (2007)
“Five Score and Seven Years Ago” is Relient K’s best overall body of work. You think that all of its predecessors and its immediate sequel are all superior in every way, shape, or form: Well, crayons can melt on you for all we care over your deathbed of devastation and lack of reform. Sadly, while this LP had a solid debut week, it didn’t reach the heights of its prior album “Mmhmm,” thus becoming the band’s second of two full-length studio albums for Capitol Records; the buying and PureVolume streaming public must have done something wrong. Fun fact: One of the main reasons that this album is easily their best produced effort is because the band actually had a pre-production budget; what the hell is a record budget anyway?
Skeleton Key “Fantastic Spikes Through Balloon” (1997)
Easily the most underrated full-length studio album listed here, despite being nominated but not winning a Grammy Award for its, wait for it, wait for it, uniquely and pristinely designed artwork, and if you want more proof, try to find Skeleton Key’s “Fantastic Spikes Through Balloon” on DSPs. Fun fact: you likely remember MTV’s non-hit show “Oddville, MTV,” and if you aren’t, you’re just weird in another way that is too weird to mention. Regardless, go on YouTube and watch the band’s WTF performance. Done? Sweet. Now watch blink-182’s, Wild Orchid’s (a girl group featuring a young Fergie years before she became Fergalicious with The Black Eyed Peas), Descendents’ and more in the digital rabbit hole. Cool? Sweet. So, dear reader, don’t nod off just yet so you can desperately watch the fat man swing… Scratch that as the needle never ends!
Smoking Popes “Born to Quit” (1994)
Bayside, Mike Park, your elderly cousin who still lives with his stepmom, and Alkaline Trio love this band like a milkshake, so why shouldn’t you? This Smoking Popes entry is interesting in a non-ugly painting way, as this album, “Born to Quit,” was big enough for the band NOT to get dropped, but not large enough to be mainstream. C’est la vie! Smoking Popes released one more full-length studio album for Capitol Records after this sleeper and realized that their major label party was over. Why didn’t the three Caterer brothers become pop stars like the three gents in Hanson? We gotta know right now as we can’t help the teardrops from getting cried. In closing, take a gander at this album cover, which thirty years later in the present year could NEVER be created via a major label release.
The Vines “Winning Days” (2004)
The Vines’ debut full-length studio record “Highly Evolved” righteously swam successfully in the “garage rock” Big Four portion of the early-aughts wherein each band had a “The” in the beginning and something pluralized like “White Stripes,” “Hives,” and “Strokes.” However, its less grungy but still catchy sequel “Winning Days” may have had success in an Apple commercial, which ain’t a bad thing, but we don’t recall too many people stateside singing its praises. So drown the Baptists, burn the Westboro Baptist Church, look into the life/sterling career of John the Baptist, and hail Satan towards Sydney, Australia’s The Vines… and if you have time, which we believe that you do as you’re reading this, ride with the five follow-up LPs to “Winning Days”.
Yellowcard “Paper Walls” (2007)
Dear Bobbie, in a perfect world, this particular record would have been the follow-up to Yellowcard’s breakout and Radio Disney approved LP, “Ocean Avenue,” and the band’s best release (you know we’re right) “Lights and Sounds” would have been Capitol Records’ third Yellowcard album, but sadly that was not the case. We know that you know as well as we do that this world is far from perfect, so our shadows and regrets will forever darken the sky and cut Mick Jagger with a plastic fork. “Paper Walls” likely fell under your radar for more reasons than its meh single “Light Up The Sky,” and you need to remedy that stat! Honestly, approximately half of the record’s songs would’ve been better as highlight tracks, but you didn’t hear it from us. The band took a hiatus after this one, and made an incredible comeback before disbanding and reforming again!

This legendary female Sasquatch, affectionately known as Patty, is advocating for women’s bodily autonomy and reproductive rights. “It’s crucial for every woman to have control over her own body and choices,” Patty stated emphatically. She emphasizes that just as she protects her own domain and makes decisions that impact her well-being and that of her kin, women must also have the autonomy to make decisions about their own lives. As a result, Patty the Bigfoot is voting for Kamala Harris.
Known for its formidable presence and mysterious ways, Wisconsin’s Beast of Bray Road is a staunch supporter of hardline Republican values, particularly emphasizing strong rural traditions and family structures. “Our rural communities have long thrived on shared values, hard work, and close-knit family bonds,” the beast stated. “We need a leader who will fight the ‘woke agenda’ and will protect us from the encroachment of radical changes that threaten to undermine our traditions and way of living.” The Beast of Bray Road is firmly endorsing Donald Trump.
The Jersey Devil has revealed a surprisingly pro-union stance, advocating for workers’ rights and fair wages. As a long-time Teamster, the Jersey Devil has seen firsthand the challenges faced by workers and is committed to improving conditions for laborers. “I’ve seen too many hard working folks get the short end of the stick,” it screeched from the Pine Barrens. “We need someone who fights for the people, not just the big bosses.” With this in mind, the Jersey Devil is voting for Kamala Harris.
Known for its wild antics and unpredictable behavior, the Florida Skunk Ape has embraced the role of a true “Florida Man” in the political arena. “I love the chaos, the excitement, the drama!” it exclaimed, waving a Let’s Go Brandon flag. “Trump’s the only one who gets it!” The Skunk Ape is against draining the swamp, however, as it is his natural habitat. The Florida Skunk Ape is obviously backing Donald Trump.
This harbinger of doom has turned its ominous gaze towards America’s crumbling infrastructure. “Bridges collapsing, roads full of potholes, and outdated power grids – it’s a disaster waiting to happen,” Mothman warned. “We need someone who prioritizes rebuilding and modernizing our country. This will create thousands of badly needed jobs in the area. JD Vance pretends to be from ‘round here, but he doesn’t understand the struggles of the common man.” The Mothman is voting for Kamala Harris.
Emerging from the misty banks of the Little Miami River, the Loveland Frogman is a staunch advocate for cleaning up our waterways. “Our rivers and streams are in dire need of attention,” it croaked. “We need a leader who prioritizes environmental health and the preservation of natural habitats.” With a focus on environmental policies and waterway restoration, the Loveland Frogman is voting for the Green Party Candidate.
This elusive creature from Dover, Massachusetts wishes for even more chaos during this already hectic campaign season.“Humanity’s time is up,” the Dover Demon declared with an unsettling calmness. Aligning itself with dark forces and apocalyptic visions, the Dover Demon is casting its vote for third-party candidate Naf’Sung The Ancient One, believing that Naf’Thung will usher in the chaos and destruction necessary for the demon’s plans
Emerging from the gritty streets of inner-city Detroit, the Nain Rouge is a fierce advocate for all things Detroit. “This city is my heart and soul,” it proclaimed with pride. “From the music to the sports teams, to the resilient spirit of its people.” Emphasizing a deep love for the Motor City and its unique culture, the Nain Rouge is casting its vote for Eminem, believing that the hometown hero will represent and champion the true spirit of Detroit on the national stage.
Known for its mysterious, ghostly presence, the Fresno Nightcrawler is a fervent supporter of the “Don’t Tread on Me” philosophy. It’s all about personal freedom and minimal government interference. “We need a leader who respects our individual rights and freedoms,” the Fresno Nightcrawler declared. The Fresno Nightcrawler will be voting for Donald Trump.
In staunch opposition to his West Virginian counterpart The Mothman’s standings, the Flatwoods Monster is a die-hard supporter of coal jobs and traditional industries. “We need to bring back the jobs that made this country great,” it insisted. “To bring back that tradition, I support United Mine Workers of America President John L. Lewis, who died in 1969 and whose ghost has lots of unfinished business.” The Flatwoods Monster is enthusiastically voting for the ghost of John L. Lewis, dead President of the United Mine Workers of America.
Hailing from the eerie landscapes of South Dakota, the Badlands Banshee is a spectral figure deeply concerned about the recent shifts in the Supreme Court’s decisions. This female cryptid, known for her mournful wails that echo through the Badlands, has voiced her unease about what she perceives as a troubling erosion of rights and liberties. “The direction the Supreme Court has taken is deeply concerning,” she lamented. With a firm belief in restoring balance and protecting fundamental rights, the Badlands Banshee is casting her vote for the reanimated corpse of Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Deep in the rural expanses of Arkansas lives the the Fouke Monster, and they have a unique perspective on local politics. Embracing the nostalgic appeal of a familiar face, it’s throwing its support behind former President Bill Clinton. “Bill understands small-town values and the needs of rural communities,” the Fouke Monster declared. “His policies brought prosperity to places like mine, and we need that kind of leadership again.” With a deep appreciation for Clinton’s legacy in rejuvenating the economic landscape of rural America, the Fouke Monster has decided to endorse Bill Clinton.
Known for his controversial stances and unconventional beliefs, the Lizard Man of Scape Ore Swamp has made his political preferences clear. This cryptid is not content with the current state of human governance and believes it’s time for the underground kingdom of the lizard people to rise up and take their rightful place ruling over humanity. “My people have waited thousands of years to take their rightful place above ground,” the Lizard Man proclaimed. “We need a leader who will rule the surface world and put humans in their place, on their knees.” With this vision in mind, the Lizard Man is casting his vote for Esspor the IV, King of the Lizard People.
Deeply troubled by the treatment of illegal immigrants, the Chupacabra has emerged as a passionate advocate for humane immigration policies. This elusive creature believes that every individual deserves compassion and fair treatment, regardless of their status. “As an immigrant myself, this is very personal to me. It’s essential to address the injustices faced by immigrants and ensure that their rights are protected,” the Chupacabra stated. The Chupacabra is staunchly voting for Kamala Harris in the 2024 election with hopes of pushing the Democrat part left.
Disillusioned with the current political landscape, the Michigan Dogman has decided that none of the candidates are worthy of his vote. “I’m tired of empty promises and broken systems,” he growled. “None of these candidates understand what it means to truly protect and serve our communities.” With this sentiment, the Michigan Dogman has announced that he is voting for himself in the upcoming election, believing he is the only one capable of bringing real change and leadership.
Known for its love of simple pleasures like beer, wrestling, and pickup trucks, the Honey Island Swamp Monster (aka The Cajun Sasquatch) has made its political choice clear. “There’s nothing like cracking open a cold one, catching some wrestling action, and cruising down the bayou in a trusty truck,” it grinned. “We need a leader who understands the heart and soul of this great American way of life.” The Honey Island Swamp Monster is proudly voting for “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.
The Thunderbird has taken a firm stand in support of Indigenous peoples’ rights and cultural preservation. It is deeply committed to advocating for the protection of sacred lands and respecting traditional knowledge. “Our Indigenous communities deserve a government that honors their heritage and rights,” the Thunderbird declared. With a deep reverence for spiritual leadership and ancestral wisdom, the Thunderbird has announced that it is voting for Gitche Manitou, the Great Spirit.
The three-legged Enfield Horror, known for its malevolent presence, has declared its support for chaos and darkness. “I’ve been condemned and vilified for far too long,” the Enfield Horror hissed. “It’s time to embrace true malevolence and watch the world burn.” With a desire to spread corruption and revel in destruction, the Enfield Horror is casting its vote for the demon Astaroth, The Great Duke of Hell, embracing the promise of ultimate apocalypse for the upcoming election.
Known for its mischievous antics and love of chaos, The Pukwudgie is relishing the opportunity to disrupt the political landscape. “Why settle for the usual candidates when you can have pure pandemonium?” the Pukwudgie declared. “Let’s shake things up and add some chaos!” Embracing its affinity for disorder, The Pukwudgie is throwing its support behind YouTube star PewDiePie known for his controversial antics and sensationalism.
As a staunch advocate for animal rights, The Shunka Warakin believes that humanity has become a blight on the planet, wreaking havoc on ecosystems and wildlife. “Man’s greed and carelessness have turned this world into a wasteland,” the Shunka Warakin declared with a fierce snarl. “We need a leader who will bring about a radical shift in priorities, restoring balance and respecting nature.” Embracing a more radical approach to environmental preservation, The Shunka Warakin is voting for fellow cryptid The Man-Eating Tree of Nubia, an entity known for its fierce stance against exploitation and its commitment to devouring human bodies whole.
In the shadowy realms of folklore, the Skinwalker is known for its shape-shifting abilities and subterfuge, The Skinwalker has unveiled a diabolical plan to reshape the political landscape. “I’m going to assume the guise of Donald Trump, infiltrate his life, and seize control of his campaign,” The Skinwalker declared with a chilling laugh. “By voting as Trump, I’ll ensure my own vision for this country becomes reality. I have a feeling now matter what I do, no one will find it odd.” With this ambitious scheme, The Skinwalker is voting for himself wearing the skin of Donald Trump in the 2024 election.
Known for its mysterious and somewhat rebellious nature, the Beltsville Goatman emerged with a surprising stance on drug policy. This cryptid is a staunch supporter of the legalization of drugs, believing it would lead to a more sensible and effective approach to drug laws. “The war on drugs has failed and the current system is a mess; we need to end the prohibition and treat it as a public health issue,” the Goatman argued. The Beltsville Goatman is fervently backing Bernie Sanders for the 2024 election.
This Creole creature is deeply rooted in the mystic traditions of Louisiana, believes it’s time for a shift in the political landscape. “It’s high time we bring voodoo into our politics,” The Grunch Road Monster declared, channeling its ancestral knowledge. “We need a leader who embodies the spirit of the underworld and respects our cultural heritage.” Embracing the potent forces of the supernatural, The Grunch Road Monster is voting for Maman Brigitte, the Haitian spirit of death and the underworld, seeking to inject a dose of dark mysticism into the political sphere.
From the frigid, remote forests of the north, the Wendigo is a mythical figure renowned for its hunger for human flesh and chilling presence. However, beneath its fearsome exterior lies a deep concern for the environment, particularly climate change. “I thrive in the cold,” the Wendigo noted. “But if the planet warms up, my icy habitat could disappear.” Motivated by a desire to preserve the cold climates it loves, the Wendigo is enthusiastically backing Skaði, the Norse goddess of winter.
This fearsome, dragon-like creature from the hills of Maryland has emerged as a fervent supporter of anti-immigration legislation. The Snallygaster has adopted a no-nonsense attitude towards border control. “Dirty Italians are flooding into our country by the millions and they need to be stopped,” it roared. “We need someone who understands the importance of securing our borders and maintaining national integrity.” The Snallygaster is casting its vote for the soul of Thomas Jefferson burning in hell for all eternity.