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.
Que Suerte!
Cap'n Jazz Lyrics
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The lyrics to Cap'n Jazz's song Que Suerte! are quite abstract and don't necessarily follow a clear narrative. However, there are a few themes that emerge throughout the verses. One of the most prominent themes is that of disconnection and longing for connection. The first line, "dictioncanary can swear she's barely aware of her apparently paralyzing stares," creates an image of someone who is almost disconnected from themselves, as if they are not even aware of the effect they have on others. This is followed by the refrain, "let me let go," which could be interpreted as a desire to disconnect from someone or something that is causing pain or discomfort.
The second verse continues with the theme of disconnection, describing "grapevine twine and loose news noose." This could be interpreted as a reference to gossip and rumors that can create a sense of isolation and mistrust in a community. The singer then describes sitting on someone's driveway, possibly waiting for them or trying to connect with them in some way. However, they are met with resistance and the person seems to be trying to push them away, as described by "twisting baited lines to drive me away."
The final verse introduces the idea of an "likeable bully," someone who may be charming and likable on the surface, but who also has the power to hurt and dominate. This could be a reference to a specific person or a general observation about human behavior. The verse ends on a slightly more positive note with the mention of "late night desperate phone calls," implying that even in moments of disconnection and pain, there is still a desire for human connection and understanding.
Line by Line Meaning
dictioncanary can swear she's barely aware of her apparently paralyzing stares.
The singer believes that someone named 'dictioncanary' has a habit of staring in a way that makes people uncomfortable, even if they don't realize it.
let me let go. let me let go.
The singer is asking to be released from a situation or relationship, possibly one that is causing them emotional pain or stress.
angel, i've never seen you.
The singer is addressing someone they refer to as an 'angel', but admits that they have never actually met or seen them in person.
grapevine twine and loose news noose.
The artist is using a metaphor to describe the spread of rumors through gossip and hearsay, comparing it to a tangled and dangerous vine.
sitting on your driveway. twisting baited lines to drive me away.
The artist is describing a situation where they are outside someone's home, trying to have a conversation or confrontation, but the other person is being intentionally difficult and trying to push them away.
let me let go.
The singer repeats their request to be released from the situation, indicating that it is causing them significant distress.
you're like a likeable bully.
The singer is making a comparison between the person they are addressing and someone who bullies others, but noting that they are still somehow likable or attractive despite this negative behavior.
our favorite, late night desparate phone calls.
The artist is reminiscing about a habit they used to have with the person they are addressing, of making desperate phone calls to each other late at night when they were feeling lonely or upset.
sugar, even odd smiles are in this season.
The artist is using a term of endearment ('sugar') to comment on how even things that might seem strange or out of place can still be acceptable or normal during certain times or circumstances, like 'odd smiles' during a particular 'season'.
Contributed by Hailey D. Suggest a correction in the comments below.