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***Back in 1996, when Acrobatic Tenement was first released, At the Drive-In was utterly unknown, playing to crowds of ten or less more often than not. Flipsider Blaze James was so taken with how these five skinny kids from El Paso gave their all to empty bars that he insisted the band record. Created in a couple of days for about 600 bucks, Acrobatic Tenement captures their blistering outpouring of youthful energy, but itis more than just that. Even from the very beginning, there was something monumental about At The Drive In. They exude an enviable power without restricting the delicateness of forward thought, all the while retaining a distinct identity and sound. They had a simple program which is still in effect years down the road: work hard, remain sincere, be honest and give everything. Some might call it corny; someone like Blaze James, now their manager, recognizes it as extraordinary. A lot has happened since the recording of Acrobatic Tenement*o At the Drive In continued to tour like mad; their live shows earned them a fair degree of respect and fame; the critical musical community has bestowed accolades and acclaim; their fans have increased steadily in number and rabidity. The band also went on to release El Gran Orgo on Offtime/Onefoot, the hugely successful In/Casino/Out and Vaya on Fearless and scads of singles. |
