Formed in the mid-90s, Eels broke through with their 1996 debut Beautiful Freak, which gave the world enduring alt-rock gems like Novocaine for the Soul and Susan’s House. Known for songs that blend quirky instrumentation, sardonic humour, and deep emotional honesty, the band has built a cult following with a catalogue that spans grief, hope, and everything in between.
Over the decades, E has become one of alternative music’s most distinctive voices; a storyteller who never shies away from the messiness of life, whether it’s through lush ballads, scrappy rockers, or electronic-tinged experiments.
For this special birthday edition of The Artist Hour, we’ll be diving into the Eels discography with an hour of uninterrupted music, from early classics to fan favourites like Mr. E’s Beautiful Blues, That Look You Give That Guy, and Hey Man (Now You’re Really Living).
And for even more insight into the man behind the music, check out Sam Steen’s 2023 interview with E, recorded around the release of the album Extreme Witchcraft. You can listen to that conversation via the player below.
The Eels frontman chatted about their latest album Extreme Wirtchcraft, Zig & Zag and his son being unimpressed by his songs featuring in Shrek.
The Artist Hour airs every Tuesday and Thursday at 8pm on Today Radio; one artist, one hour, non-stop.
