Rock band continues feud with ’90s competitors, unable to tolerate their music
In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Spin Doctors lead singer Chris Barron revealed that the band still holds a grudge against their ’90s rivals, Pearl Jam, despite both groups being on the same record label during their heyday. Barron disclosed that there was a clear bias towards Pearl Jam by Epic Records, the label that both bands were signed to in 1991 when they released their debut albums. He expressed frustration at seeing full-page ads and extensive displays dedicated to Pearl Jam, while the Spin Doctors struggled to find their own record in stores.
Drummer-keyboardist Aaron Comess further shed light on the issue, stating that it took a significant amount of time for the label to recognize the success of the Spin Doctors’ album, “Pocket Full of Kryptonite.” The album, which spawned hits like “Two Princes,” “Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong,” and “Jimmy Olsen’s Blues,” peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart and sold over 10 million copies. Despite the band’s accomplishments, Comess recalled feeling neglected as Epic Records poured their resources into promoting Pearl Jam.
It was a particularly challenging time for the Spin Doctors as Pearl Jam’s debut album, “10,” released concurrently, enjoyed immense success with chart-topping hits like “Black,” “Alive,” and “Jeremy.” The album went on to be certified 13 times platinum in the U.S. and propelled Pearl Jam to international stardom. The disparity in promotional efforts fueled the ongoing animosity between the two bands.
While both groups have since moved on from Epic Records, the bitterness still remains for the Spin Doctors. Barron admitted that he is unable to listen to Pearl Jam’s music, emphasizing his lingering resentment towards the band that was seemingly favored over his own. Despite this lingering feud, the Spin Doctors continue to create music and recently released a new album titled “Face Full of Cake.” Produced by Phish bassist Mike Gordon, this record marks the band’s first full-length release since 2013’s “If the River Was Whiskey.”
Looking ahead, the Spin Doctors have lined up a series of upcoming tour dates, including performances in Upstate New York at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino in Niagara Falls and Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga in Saratoga Springs. As they revisit their classic hits and introduce new material to their fans, the band remains determined to leave behind the shadows of past rivalries and carve out their own path in the music industry.