Dada is best known for their novelty hit, "Dizz Knee Land", which bubbled under the top 100 back in 1993. Nevertheless, the critically acclaimed debut album, "Puzzle", went all the way to #111 on the album chart. Many other terrific songs grace this album, but no other singles scored on the chart. No one seemed to be paying attention to the band by their fourth record, which was simply named "dada". It came out in 1998 and should have marked a big comeback for the band. It is one of the best albums of the 90s, filled with brilliant songwriting and well-crafted harmonies. As always, Michael Gurley's guitar work is first-rate. In addition to the amazing "Beautiful Turnback Time Machine", be sure to check out "Spinning My Wheels", "Information Undertow", and "Where You're Going". Easily one of my "desert island" discs.
In 1998, the modern rock trio dada released their fourth LP, a self-titled effort that should have been a huge comeback for the band whose first record went gold in 1992. But dada closed the 90s with an unjustified fizzle. Two of the boys, Michael Gurley and Phil Leavitt, started a side project called Butterfly Jones. Their one and only record, "Napalm Springs", surfaced in 2001 and was virtually ignored. And it is a real shame - the record is packed with incredible riffs, catchy songs, and a plethora of witty lyrics. "The Systematic Dumbing Down of Terry Constance Jones" is one highlight of many, a song about the misguided pursuit of youth and exterior beauty.
