There’s nothing like 90s nostalgia. Long hair, high top Converse shoes, torn jeans, and of course youthful angst. This was a time in which rock music diversified and branched in so many different and awesome directions with bands who dared to push the envelope with new sounds, melodies, and powerful lyrics.
All of these, including the Converse shoes, were on full display when Soul Asylum took the stage at the Lowbrow Palace in El Paso.
The show was part of their Slowly but Shirley Tour in support of their thirteenth studio album of the same name. The veteran rock group – featuring frontman Dave Pirner, lead guitarist Ryan Smith, Jeremy Tappero on bass, and drummer Jerry Pentacost – took the stage in front of an intimate but engaged crowd, consisting of longtime fans and younger ears (including Figure).
Pirner’s powerful vocals were expertly accompanied by roaring riffs and smooth harmonies, exactly what you would expect from a seasoned band that hasn’t lost an ounce of their original sound or attitude. Among classics like Misery and Black Gold, Soul Asylum belted out bangers from their new album including Sucker Maker, Trial By Fire, and Freeloader.
Runaway Train Revisited
I found myself swaying back and forth during Runaway Train and couldn’t help but being transported back to the 1990s. The song itself – majestically melodic yet mysterious – speaks volumes of the challenges youth (and adults) still face today while navigating this crazy world. It’s still an anthem for those who find themselves lost, alone, and afraid to seek help.
Bought a ticket for a runaway train
-Runaway Train (1993)
Like a madman laughing at the rain
A little out of touch, a little insane
It’s just easier than dealing with the pain
In a 2022 interview with The Guardian, Pirner described the song as “a sad and reflective song that reminds people that it’s not all candy out there, but that they’re not alone.” He also goes on to reveal that the runaway train is a metaphor for depression, something he was going through at the time.
Thanks to a powerful music video, 21 missing youth were reunited with their families after going missing or running away from home. Runaway Train continues to be a strong reminder of the power of music in helping those in crisis.
Listen to a preview of Slowly but Shirley:
