Scrawl

In 1996, after years of navigating the challenges of independent labels and relentless touring, Scrawl faced a pivotal moment in their career. Terry Tolkin, an A&R representative at Elektra Records who knew Scrawl from their mutual stint at Rough Trade Records, had restored Scrawl's faith in the recording process by helping connect the band with engineer Steve Albini to record their Bloodsucker album. When Tolkin offered them a deal with Elektra, Scrawl had reservations but decided to sign. They reunited with Albini to record what would become their major-label debut, Travel On, Rider.

Travel On, Rider

Elektra – 61934-2

1996

This decision carried a certain irony. Following the recording of Scrawl's 1993 album Velvet Hammer, Albini penned a widely discussed critique of the major-label system, cautioning artists about its pitfalls. He advised Scrawl against signing with Elektra, but the band proceeded nonetheless. Reflecting on this choice in a Local Waste Music podcast, frontwoman Marcy Mays candidly admitted, "Steve Albini begged us not to do it. And he was right. And then we did it anyway."

Despite the band's apprehensions, the recording sessions for Travel On, Rider proved to be among the most fulfilling of Scrawl's career. They worked with Albini at Pachyderm Studio in Minnesota and Studio Black Box in France. Mays recalled in the Local Waste interview, "We had a great time... That was the best experience we possibly could have had because I think Steve also was like, 'You guys are so jaded and beat up. Let's go make a fun record.'"

The Boston Phoenix October 4-10, 1996 Travel On Rider review

The album's production showcased a dual approach: Albini's raw, unvarnished engineering captured the band's authentic sound, while Jeff Powell's contributions added a complementary polish. This collaboration resulted in a dynamic and emotionally resonant record. Tracks like "Good Under Pressure" and "The Garden Path" delve into themes of betrayal and self-realization with honesty and grit.

The Boston Phoenix October 4-10, 1996 Travel On Rider review part 2 — The Boston Phoenix - October 4-10, 1996

Critics responded favorably to Travel On, Rider. Gina Arnold of the New Times described the album as "by far the best album of (Scrawl's) career, it is also the band's most difficult," noting that it compels listeners to "look a little deeper into the roots of romantic delusion." Rolling Stone awarded the album three stars, portraying it as a survival guide forged from everyday frustrations and disillusionments.

In an interview with Matter News, Scrawl shared cynical anecdotes blended with humor, offering a wry commentary on the music industry. They recounted experiences such as being billed for a brief social visit with a New York City label attorney as well as realizing the importance of working with producers and engineers who truly understood their vision.

Travel On, Rider is proof of Scrawl's resilience and artistic integrity. It exemplifies the ethos of the Columbus underground music scene, where authenticity is key, and commercial pressures are resisted. For fans of raw, unfiltered rock, Travel On, Rider remains an essential listen. Scrawl, who've never officially broken up and are opening for Mike Watt April 14th at the club that Mays founded, Ace Of Cups, are survivors.