In 1998, “Flagpole Sitta” became the anthem for angsty burnouts across the country. What happened to those guys? Doing a little digging, we were surprised to find the band has quietly released two more albums since their debut, 1997’s Where Have All the Merrymakers Gone? (Fun fact: “Flagpole Sitta” will reportedly be renewed as the theme song for the UK sitcom Peep Show, now in its eighth season). We were further surprised, if not a bit flummoxed, to learn Harvey Danger formally called it quits last year. Before they did, they recorded the just-released track “The Show Must Not Go On” while wrapping up their final string of shows last fall. Produced by John Goodmanson (Sleater-Kinney, Death Cab for Cutie, and all three Harvey Danger albums), the track is a far cry from the ire of their youth. Rather, it seems the band has come to terms with the trappings of commercial success. It can’t be easy being relegated to one hit wonder status (Local H, anyone?), but the enduring impact of “Flagpole Sitta” on alternative rock just might be worth the burn.
Check out the final jam, “The Show Must Not Go On”, for free here. Also, check up on the rest of their catalog, including a brand new 15-track b-sides/rarities collection.
— Britt
Sundae Magazine: The Daily Blog 