Top 5 Eels Songs

Eels prolific output ranges from the rough, hard rocking "Souljacker" (probably their best record) to the delicate hymns to E's tragic family losses on "Electro Shock Blues" and "Blinking Lights". Over twelve albums, plus some excellent b-sides and live stuff, there's a hell of a lot to choose from. Coming around at the height of Britpop, they were initially bundled in with the rest of the quirkier side of the British scene - but it soon became clear they had more in common with Beck or Neil Young, than Blur or Oasis.

1. Guest List (Beautiful Freak 1996)

Gorgeous walking baseline, great lyrics, and a bit of harmonica (I'm a sucker for harmonica). The highlight of their awesome debut that still gives me chills nearly 15 years on...

2. PS Your Rock My World (Electro-Shock Blues 1998)

"I was thinking about how everyone is dying - and maybe it's time to live". After a whole record of sorrow, and at times despair at having suffered the loss of both his mother and sister in quick succession, this song closes the album on a hopeful note. Lovely stuff.

3. Ugly Love (Blinking Lights and Other Revelations 2005)




That concept "Ugly Love', "Beautiful Freak", "Love of the Loveless" runs through all Eels records. The outsider having something unique to offer - and in this song it's put simply and frankly.

4. Bus Stop Boxer (Souljacker 2001)




A sweet beat, like the sound of someone kicking a coin down the road, this dark, sinister tune is sublime. Reminiscent of Tom Waits Mule Variations stuff - but still uniquely Eels.

5. Numbered Days (Shootenany! 2003)

Maybe the pinnacle of Eels career? On a record of supposed throwaways from the Blinking Lights sessions. When throwaways are this good, you know you're in for a treat.

And that's it! The very first High Five. Remember, the order is not important, but the songs are. Feel free to respond and comment.