In December 1990, when The Flaming Lips performed "Sonic Reducer" live in Norman, they were at an intriguing juncture in their career. Just a year earlier, in 1989, they had released the album *Telepathic Surgery*, which represented a shift in their sound and their exploration of experimental themes. This album, often seen as a bridge between their earlier punk influences and their later psychedelic style, laid the groundwork for their development as a band. The live performance at The Annex was part of their rise in the underground scene, showcasing their energetic vibe and knack for covering tracks from other artists, like The Dead Boys’ “Sonic Reducer.” Interestingly, this period also hints at their growing reputation for wild live shows, pulsating with raw emotion and creativity that would become a hallmark of their artistry. Little did they know that in just a few years, they would explode into the mainstream with their critically acclaimed albums, solidifying their unique place in the music world.