Watery, Domestic

Malkmus recalled Watery, Domestic as, “…probably the most succinct statement of the band in the long run, if you consider the recording quality and lyrics and just the sound and feel of it.”

The title is a reference, at least in part, to the band’s predilection for watery, American lagers. Thematically, this ties in to the lyrics of the album which are largely reflections on the band’s town of origin, Stockton, California (specifically) and, more generally, the laconic quasi-small town American life.

Continuing the tradition started with Slanted and Enchanted and the subsequent singles from that album, Watery, Domestic’s cover is, itself, a scrawled-over cover from a band called Ambergris. This album marks the debut recordings of Pavement members Bob Nastanovich and Mark Ibold, who would remain with the band through their final album. It is also the final appearance of drummer Gary Young and the last time they would record in his studio.