On a rain-slicked Florida highway in October 1995, the promising career of Gainesville-based For Squirrels was shattered. A van crash claimed the lives of lead singer Jack Vigliatura, bassist Bill White, and tour manager Tim Bender, leaving guitarist/vocalist Travis Tooke and drummer Jack Griego to grapple with immense loss and uncertainty. The accident marked a dark chapter not only for the band but also for the burgeoning alt-rock scene they were poised to dominate.
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Amidst this profound grief, Tooke and Griego embarked on a difficult journey of healing and artistic rebirth. Years later, they resurfaced as Subrosa, alongside new bassist Andy Lord. Their 1997 album, “Never Bet The Devil Your Head,” is a poignant testament to their resilience. Diverging from For Squirrels’ college rock sound, Subrosa embraced a heavier, post-hardcore aesthetic, channeling their pain into a raw and emotionally charged debut.
“Never Bet The Devil Your Head” showcases Tooke’s dynamic vocal range, moving seamlessly between haunting lows and fiery growls. Tracks like “World’s Greatest Lover” and “Antigen Fiend” highlight this versatility, while Griego’s drumming—marked by unexpected double kick passages—adds a powerful, metal-influenced edge. The band’s distinctive blend of melodic guitar lines and fuzz-laden riffs creates a compelling noise that mirrors their tumultuous journey.
The album’s lyrics are steeped in themes of loss, anger, and critique of the music industry. Lines like “Grunge is dead, buried next to God” reflect their disillusionment with the grunge label and a desire to forge a new identity. “Never the Best” captures the cathartic energy reminiscent of Nirvana’s “Tourette’s,” illustrating their complex relationship with their past and their influences.
Despite limited promotion and scant reviews, “Never Bet The Devil Your Head” remains a powerful artifact of ‘90s rock, resonating with fans who appreciate its raw honesty and emotional depth. The album’s multimedia CD, featuring videos and a “make your own movie” tool, was an innovative attempt to offer more value in the digital age, even if it didn’t receive the marketing push it deserved.
Songs in this Episode
Intro - Never The Best
13:42 - World's Greatest Lover
23:01 - The Life Inside Me Killed This Song
28:38 - Antigen Fiend
32:33 - Dope Nostalgia Promo
34:27 - Damn The Youth
Outro - Rollercoaster
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Subrosa - Never Bet the Devil Your Head