I've Suffered a Head Injury, released only months after the band formed, collects some of the stronger material from the members' previous bands (Johnny With An Eye and Water 4 the Pool), with each member contributing songs. While it's clearly a flawed debut, there is no shortage of great songs, and the album shows a great deal of promise, incorporating a competent blend of quirky pop reminiscent of
XTC crossed with the rocking side of
R.E.M. and a brooding introspection obviously influenced by
Bob Mould. [Upon signing to RCA, the album was reissued in a slightly modified form, dropping three songs including "The Freshmen," the stark, emotional closer and easily the high point of the album. A re-recorded version of "The Freshmen" would later appear on the RCA debut. The song was re-recorded again for the single release and became the band's first national hit.] ~ Chris Woodstra