The Making of Extreme II: Pornograffitti by Extreme

Introduction

In the landscape of early 1990s rock music, “Extreme II: Pornograffitti” by the band Extreme stands as a seminal work that defied genre conventions and captivated audiences worldwide. Released on August 7, 1990, through A&M Records, this album is a bold fusion of glam metal, funk metal, and heavy metal. Its daring concept and diverse musical styles not only set it apart from its contemporaries but also solidified its place in music history. As the band’s most successful album, it features the chart-topping acoustic ballad “More Than Words” and the hard-hitting “Get the Funk Out,” both of which became anthems of the era.

This article delves into the genesis, recording process, commercial success, and lasting impact of “Extreme II: Pornograffitti.” We will explore the album’s creative contributors, analyze its critical reception, and examine its legacy in the context of music history. Additionally, we’ll provide insights from band members and industry professionals to offer a comprehensive understanding of this iconic album.

The album’s impact was profound, earning double platinum status in the United States and reaching number 10 on the Billboard 200. Its blend of genres and lyrical depth resonated with audiences, ensuring its place as a classic. Guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, who co-produced the album, was hailed as “Best New Talent” by Guitar World magazine in 1991. In Bettencourt’s own words, “We wanted to push the boundaries of what people expected from a rock band at the time, and I think we succeeded.”

The Genesis of “Extreme II: Pornograffitti”

As the 1980s gave way to the 1990s, the music scene was in a state of flux. Hair metal bands were facing competition from emerging grunge artists, and there was a palpable shift in musical tastes. Amidst this changing landscape, Extreme sought to create something unique with their second album, “Extreme II: Pornograffitti.” Their goal was to blend elements of funk, metal, and rock into a cohesive and innovative sound.

Prior to “Extreme II: Pornograffitti,” the band had released their self-titled debut album in 1989, which laid the groundwork for their future success. The debut showcased their musical prowess but didn’t quite capture the public’s imagination. Determined to make a mark, the band, consisting of Gary Cherone (vocals), Nuno Bettencourt (guitar), Pat Badger (bass), and Paul Geary (drums), began working on their sophomore effort with renewed vigor and a clear vision.

Creative contributions came from all members, with Bettencourt and Cherone taking the lead in songwriting. The album also featured guest artists like Dweezil Zappa, who contributed to the track “He-Man Woman Hater.” The collaborative spirit extended to the album’s production, with Bettencourt co-producing alongside renowned producer Michael Wagener. The album’s title, a portmanteau of pornography and graffiti, reflected its themes of societal critique and exploration of human desires.

The recording costs were financed by A&M Records, with a budget that allowed for experimentation and creative freedom. However, financial constraints were always a consideration, as the band aimed to balance artistic ambition with commercial viability. The album artwork, designed by Ioannis/Third Image, depicted a vivid, cartoonish scene that complemented the album’s thematic content. This imagery was instrumental in conveying the album’s narrative, capturing the essence of a “funked up fairy tale.”

Recording Process

The recording of “Extreme II: Pornograffitti” was a meticulous process that took place in two primary locations: Scream Studios in Studio City, California, and Courtlen Recording in Hanson, Massachusetts. These studios were chosen for their state-of-the-art equipment and conducive environments for creativity. The sessions began in late 1989 and extended into 1990, with the band and production team working tirelessly to capture the sound they envisioned.

Michael Wagener, known for his work with heavyweights like Skid Row and Metallica, brought his expertise to the project, co-producing alongside Nuno Bettencourt. Wagener’s approach to production was both technical and psychological, often described as planting “creative seeds” to guide the musicians. Bob St. John served as the engineer, ensuring that every note was captured with precision and clarity.

The recording process was not without its challenges. Technical difficulties and the pressure to deliver a commercially successful album weighed heavily on the band. Anecdotes from the sessions reveal moments of tension and triumph, such as the band’s insistence on using analog recording techniques to achieve a warmer sound. Despite these hurdles, the team persevered, resulting in a polished and dynamic album that exceeded expectations.

The producers, Michael Wagener and Nuno Bettencourt, had illustrious careers with numerous successful albums to their credit. Below is a table detailing some of the notable works they have been involved in:

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, “Extreme II: Pornograffitti” quickly climbed the charts, peaking at number 10 on the Billboard 200. The album’s success was bolstered by the popularity of its singles, particularly “More Than Words,” which reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album’s unique blend of styles and its lyrical depth resonated with audiences, earning it critical acclaim and commercial success.

The following table highlights the sales figures and certifications for “Extreme II: Pornograffitti” and other notable albums by Extreme:

The album was certified double platinum in the United States and received several accolades, including a nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance at the Grammy Awards. Its success was mirrored internationally, with platinum certifications in the UK and Canada.

Other albums released in 1990 include:

• Slaves and Masters by Deep Purple [Physical Sales: 500,000]
• Rust in Peace by Megadeth [Physical Sales: 1 million]
• Empire by Queensrÿche [Physical Sales: 3 million]
• Seasons in the Abyss by Slayer [Physical Sales: 1 million]

Extreme II: Pornograffitti’s accolades include being named the eighth greatest glam metal album by Ultimate Classic Rock and thirteenth on Rolling Stone’s list of the “50 Greatest Hair Metal Albums of All Time.”

Singles and Track Analysis

The release of singles from “Extreme II: Pornograffitti” played a significant role in the album’s success. The band released several singles, each showcasing a different facet of their musical prowess and lyrical depth. “More Than Words” and “Hole Hearted” became instant hits, cementing the band’s reputation as versatile musicians capable of both hard-hitting rock and tender ballads.

The following table provides an overview of the album’s tracks, their lengths, and songwriting credits:

Note: Songs marked with * were released as singles. “More Than Words” reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Hole Hearted” reached number 4, “Decadence Dance” and “Get The Funk Out” were popular on MTV’s Headbangers Ball.

Influences and Legacy

“Extreme II: Pornograffitti” was shaped by a myriad of musical influences, ranging from the funk-infused sounds of artists like James Brown to the intricate guitar work reminiscent of Eddie Van Halen. The band’s ability to blend these diverse elements into a cohesive album was a testament to their versatility and creativity.

The following table highlights the influences on “Extreme II: Pornograffitti” and the artists it subsequently influenced:

Released in 1990, the album’s legacy is underscored by its enduring popularity and influence on subsequent generations of musicians. The year also witnessed significant global events, such as the reunification of Germany and the release of Nelson Mandela, which shaped the cultural context of the time. In cinema, 1990 was marked by blockbuster films like “Ghost” and “Home Alone,” both of which became cultural phenomena.

Five Things about Extreme II: Pornograffitti

Here are five intriguing facts about “Extreme II: Pornograffitti” that highlight its unique place in music history:

Media and Television Usage

The music of “Extreme II: Pornograffitti” has found its way into various media over the years, further cementing its cultural impact. However, specific usage of tracks from this album in media is limited. Below is the known media usage of songs from the album:

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Critics have generally lauded “Extreme II: Pornograffitti” for its innovative sound and lyrical depth. The album’s ability to blend genres while maintaining a cohesive narrative has been a focal point of praise. Below are some of the notable reviews and their insights:

After Extreme II: Pornograffitti

Following the success of “Extreme II: Pornograffitti,” Extreme continued to evolve as a band. Their next album, “III Sides to Every Story,” released in 1992, saw them experimenting with orchestral elements and complex arrangements. Although it didn’t achieve the same commercial success, it was critically acclaimed and demonstrated the band’s willingness to push creative boundaries.

Over the years, the band underwent lineup changes, with drummer Paul Geary departing in 1994 and being replaced by Mike Mangini. These changes, coupled with the shifting musical landscape, impacted the band’s popularity. Despite these challenges, Extreme maintained a loyal fanbase and continued to tour and release new music.

As of October 2023, Extreme remains active, with the core members Gary Cherone and Nuno Bettencourt still leading the charge. They continue to perform live, showcasing their enduring talent and the timeless appeal of their music.

Remasters and Reissues

The enduring popularity of “Extreme II: Pornograffitti” has led to several remasters and reissues over the years, ensuring that new generations of listeners can experience the album in high-quality formats. Below is a list of these releases:

Conclusion

“Extreme II: Pornograffitti” remains a landmark album that continues to resonate with audiences over three decades after its release. Its innovative blend of genres, coupled with its thematic depth, ensures its place in music history. The album’s success not only elevated Extreme’s career but also influenced countless artists who followed.

Reflections from band members highlight the album’s enduring significance. Nuno Bettencourt has often remarked on the creative freedom they experienced during its production, which allowed them to craft a work that was both commercially viable and artistically satisfying.

For further exploration of this iconic album, readers can visit the Wikipedia page for “Extreme II: Pornograffitti”, the official Extreme website, and the record label’s website.

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