The Flaming Lips

Back in 1996, The Flaming Lips were riding high on the wave of their album *Clouds Taste Metallic*, which had graced the music scene just the year before. This was the period when they were beginning to blend their experimental sound with more mainstream appeal. Performing “Brainville” live at KCRW’s Santa Monica studio, the band showcased a track that was quite elusive, having only been played a handful of times in the ’90s. It's fascinating to think about how that KCRW gig was part of a broader exploration for the band, as they were transitioning into a more ambitious phase. Known for their elaborate live shows and innovative music videos, they were really carving out a unique space in alternative rock at the time. The KCRW performance speaks to a creative moment that prefigured their eventual explosion into the indie-rock stratosphere with albums like *The Soft Bulletin* just a few years down the line, doesn’t it?

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