The band recorded several singles for independent labels in the early 90's as well as contributing to several compilations. In 1995, they released their only full-length album, "Burritos, Inspiration Point, Fork Balloon Sports, Cards in the Spokes, Automatic Biographies, Kites, Kung Fu, Trophies, Banana Peels We've Slipped on and Egg Shells We've Tippy Toed Over" (better known as "Shmap'n Shmazz") on the tiny Man with Gun label.
The band broke up in July 1995, shortly after "Shmap'n Shmazz"'s release, on the night of a show at Little Rock's Das Yutes a Go-Go. In 1998, the Jade Tree label assembled a double-disc Cap'n Jazz retrospective titled "Analphabetapolothology" which compiles the band's complete recorded works: Shmap'n Shmazz, early singles, material from split releases, compilation tracks, unreleased demos and outtakes and several tracks from their farewell performance in Chicago.
After the band's split, the band members formed several new bands including The Promise Ring, American Football, Make Believe, Ghosts and Vodka, Owen, Joan of Arc and Owls
Cap'n Jazz reunited for a four-song set on January 22nd, 2010 at Chicago's Empty Bottle, which eventually led to a full tour in the second half of the year.
AOK
Cap'n Jazz Lyrics
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Sternly he replied, "you just sit tight kid"
One thing still bothered me, but I never did bother to ask
I couldn't figure out the words
Expressions and words
They're nothing but letters
Emotionally illiterate
Severely inarticulate
But I'm alright
Am I sheltered?
Am I trapped?
Was I saved and if so why?
Why did I get this chance?
Will I be able to use it right?
I might blow up sometimes but you know things are alright
I might complain and bitch but you know my answer never changes
Everything's alright
In the world you made I'm doing aok.
The lyrics of Cap'n Jazz's song AOK highlights the struggle of communicating thoughts and emotions effectively. The song portrays a speaker who is unable to express their feelings in words and phrases, despite having a lot going on in their mind. The initial dialogue between the singer and someone else shows the singer's attempt to communicate their well-being, but their confidant seems to be aware of their underlying difficulties in expressing themselves. The singer then goes on to confess their struggle with verbal communication and their inability to decipher their own thoughts and feelings.
The lines "Expressions and words, They're nothing but letters, Emotionally illiterate, Severely inarticulate" depict the frustration that the singer feels towards their inability to communicate effectively. They feel trapped and sheltered by their own limitations and wonder why they were given the chance to express themselves, only to realize that they might not be able to use it effectively. Despite their difficulties, the singer maintains a positive outlook, acknowledging that while they might blow up and complain sometimes, everything is still alright in their world.
The song reflects the emotional struggles of many people who have difficulty articulating their thoughts and feelings, and their fear of not being understood. The powerful lyrics resonate with many listeners, as it represents a common struggle that people face. The song's upbeat rhythm and melody contrast with the underlying themes of inner turmoil, creating an emotionally powerful track that highlights this very real struggle.
Line by Line Meaning
So I said, "I guess things are alright"
I expressed that everything seems fine.
Sternly he replied, "you just sit tight kid"
He responded firmly, telling me to wait patiently.
One thing still bothered me, but I never did bother to ask
There was one issue on my mind, but I never sought clarification.
I couldn't figure out the words
I couldn't find the right words to describe my feelings.
Expressions and words
Words and facial expressions are merely methods of communication.
They're nothing but letters
They are simply alphabetical symbols.
Emotionally illiterate
I lack the ability to express my emotions adequately.
Severely inarticulate
I struggle with communicating effectively.
I don't know how to tell and I don't know how to ask
I lack the capacity to ask or describe how I feel.
But I'm alright
Despite my communication problems, I am content.
Am I sheltered?
I wonder if I am protected from the harsh realities of the world.
Am I trapped?
I question whether I am constrained or stuck in any way.
Was I saved and if so why?
I wonder if someone rescued me from something and if it was deliberate.
Why did I get this chance?
I ponder why I have been given the opportunity to experience life.
Will I be able to use it right?
I worry whether I will be able to make the most of my life and opportunities.
I might blow up sometimes but you know things are alright
I may become angry or upset, but overall, I am doing fine.
I might complain and bitch but you know my answer never changes
I may whine and grumble, but ultimately, my overall sentiment remains the same.
Everything's alright
Everything is good and okay.
In the world you made I'm doing aok.
I am content with how things are going in the universe that surrounds me.
Lyrics © SC PUBLISHING DBA SECRETLY CANADIAN PUB.
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