B-Side Guys

The release of Heatmiser’s “Bottle Rocket (’92 Cassette),” the second single from their compilation LP “The Music of Heatmiser,” brings a surge of nostalgia and appreciation for the legendary Pacific Northwest band. Released posthumously on October 6, 2023, by Third Man Records, this track is a significant piece of the band’s early history, showcasing their raw and fiery beginnings.

Originally formed in 1992 in Portland, Oregon, Heatmiser, featuring the talents of Elliott Smith and Neil Gust, quickly became a notable name in the northwest rock scene. Despite never achieving widespread fame during their active years, the band left an indelible mark on the music industry, with members going on to pursue successful careers in various musical endeavors.

“Bottle Rocket (’92 Cassette)” holds a special place in the band’s history, particularly for Neil Gust, its lead vocalist. The track served as an early medium for Gust to express his sexuality, a theme that was deeply personal and somewhat veiled at the time. Reflecting on this period, Gust shares his desire for honesty and openness, wishing he could reassure his younger self about embracing his true identity. This sentiment adds a poignant layer to the song, elevating it beyond a mere musical composition to a narrative of personal growth and acceptance.

Accompanying the release is a live video shot during a 1993 show in Fort Collins, Colorado, offering fans a glimpse into the band’s dynamic live performances. The original demo cassette, along with 23 other demos, live tracks, rare versions, and previously unreleased songs, is now available on vinyl and streaming platforms, making it a treasure trove for both diehard fans and newcomers to Heatmiser’s music.

Heatmiser’s influence extended beyond their own music, with members contributing significantly to the indie music scene. Neil Gust formed the pop/rock band No. 2, bassist Sam Coomes established the indie pop duo Quasi with Sleater-Kinney drummer Janet Weiss, and drummer Tony Lash became a sought-after producer. The band’s sound, a compelling mix of Smith’s melodic folk-rock and Gust’s darker, harsher compositions, though seen as incohesive at times, made Heatmiser’s records intriguing and unique.

The release of “Bottle Rocket (’92 Cassette)” serves as a reminder of Heatmiser’s impact and the diverse talent within the band. It brings to light the band’s contribution to the music scene of the early ’90s, a time when the music industry was fervently searching for the next big act in the wake of grunge’s explosion. This track, a part of the band’s anthology, stands as a testament to Heatmiser’s enduring legacy and their role in shaping the sounds of the Pacific Northwest.

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