February 14, 1998. First Avenue, Minneapolis, MN. The day my Caroline’s Spine adventure began.
It was the day I first saw the only band that I would consider sharing the number one spot with Soundgarden’s Badmotorfinger on my, oh so important influential album challenge. Caroline’s Spine is not only a big influence music-wise, but it also a personal connection that, really I wouldn’t care to separate from the music. As I mentioned, it was a nearly 10 year epic journey “following” a band, meeting and making some life-long friends and an all around good time.
On that February day, my friends Cathy, Russ and I had decided to go and see a Sebastian Bach concert at the famous First Avenue in Minneapolis. Caroline’s Spine was the opening band. Generally speaking I am rarely moved by opening act, but this band was different right out of the gate. From the first song, which I would find out later was called Jumpship, I was completely blown away. My friend Cathy and I looked at each other halfway through their set in amazement. After the show we went over to the merch table intent on buying their CD. Unfortunately, they were sold out.
I drove down to Mankato the next day in search of their CD Monsoon. Once purchased it was on permeant rotation in my CD player. I was not alone in my new found obsession, as my friend Cathy had it just as bad. I told her that once summer came around and if they had a show anywhere within 8 hours driving distance, we’d go. Our next show was in Lincoln, NE (or was it Sioux Falls, SD? It’s all such a blur!) followed by the New London Music Fest somewhere deep into Wisconsin. Not too long after this we started seeing familiar faces at the shows and making new friends. I met one of my greatest and dearest friends, Seven, at a show in Cedar Rapids, IA. She and I had some of the best road trips ever. Every show it seemed that our little family added a new face or two. Through the years many of us have stayed close, even if we do not get together like we used too. Every time I hear Rainbow Connection I think them.
When I first saw Spine they were touring in support of their CD Monsoon. Basically, Monsoon is comprised of the “best songs” from the bands four previous indie releases (Caroline’s Spine, …So Good Afternoon, Ignore the Ants and Huge). They were remastered or re-recorded. These songs were the backbone of any Spine show, but to really get Spine, I almost think you had to see them live.
But back to the album. There is a strong lyrical storytelling aspect to Monsoon, especially on the band’s most recognizable song, Sullivan. It is a retelling of five brothers from Waterloo, IA stationed on the same ship in the South Pacific during WWII. The music is somewhere between alternative and hard rock, a post-grunge sound if you like (which is a thing). Upbeat and in-your-face with some of the catchiest guitar riffs around.
I’ve always thought it a shame that Spine didn’t get the recognition they so rightly deserved. Do yourself a favor. Go over to YouTube and search for Sullivan. Or any of their live shows. You won’t be disappointed.
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