"Stoned & Dethroned", released in 1994, marks an interesting phase in The Jesus and Mary Chain's career. The album diverges from the band's previous work by embracing a more acoustic and subdued sound, a significant shift from their earlier, noisier approach.
The idea of recording an acoustic album came after extensive touring in 1992, including a prominent spot on the Lollapalooza tour. This touring period exposed the band to various influences and experiences, which likely contributed to their decision to explore a different sonic direction.
For this record, the band brought in new members for the sessions, including Steve Monti from Curve on drums and Ben Lurie as the touring bassist. The presence of these musicians added a fresh dynamic to the band’s sound. The recording process extended over a year, reflecting the band's meticulous approach to capturing the album’s new acoustic style.
The album features notable guest appearances, including Shane MacGowan of The Pogues on the track "God Help Me" and Mazzy Star's Hope Sandoval, who duets with Jim Reid on "Sometimes Always." This track, as the album's first single, highlights the album's softer, more introspective side.
As of May 1998, Stoned & Dethroned had sold 121,000 copies in the United States according to Nielsen SoundScan. While it may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of their earlier works, the album remains a significant entry in their discography, showcasing their ability to evolve and experiment with their sound.
