"Ride the Tiger" is the debut studio album by American indie rock band Yo La Tengo. It was released in 1986. The album showcases the band's early sound, which blends elements of noise rock, indie pop, and experimentalism.
"Ride the Tiger" features a mix of original compositions and covers, highlighting Yo La Tengo's versatility and diverse musical influences. The band's penchant for experimentation is evident in the album's varied tracks, ranging from noisy, feedback-laden tunes to more melodic and reflective pieces.
Some notable tracks on the album include "The Cone of Silence," "Big Sky," and their cover of The Kinks' "Upside-Down." While "Ride the Tiger" didn't achieve widespread commercial success upon its initial release, it laid the foundation for Yo La Tengo's prolific and influential career in the indie rock scene.
The album reflects the band's early exploration of different musical styles and sets the stage for their future work, where they would become known for their eclectic approach, incorporating elements of noise, folk, and dream pop into their sound.