It's All In A Name
Brian Teasley of Man or Astro-man?
We’re had some guests that have graced the Grand Old Opry on Abandoned Albums, we’ve got a show coming up with a guest who was a Golden Globe Nominee, and one who served 26 years in jail; but I can say with complete certainty, that until we spoke to Brian Teasley of Man or Astro-man? we’d never had someone who was wanted by the FBI.
Man or Astro-man? is a legendary American surf rock band known for their high-energy performances, innovative sound, and quirky retro-futuristic aesthetic.
Formed in the early 1990s in Auburn, Alabama, the band quickly gained a cult following for their unique blend of surf rock, punk, and sci-fi influences. Together, they create a dynamic sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking, with songs that often feature samples from vintage sci-fi movies and TV shows.
Man or Astro-man? gained a reputation for their electrifying live shows, which often include elaborate costumes, props, and visual effects. Their concerts are a multimedia experience, with the band members often adopting alter egos and personas on stage. They have been known to use a variety of unconventional instruments, including theremins, vintage synthesizers, and even homemade devices.
One of the band's trademarks is their use of audio clips from old sci-fi films and TV shows, which they incorporate into their songs to create a sense of nostalgia and whimsy ← a word not used nearly enough.
And combined with their frenetic guitar riffs and pounding drums, all of it gives their music a unique and unforgettable sound.
Over the years, Man or Astro-man? has released a string of critically acclaimed albums and singles, including Destroy All Astromen! (1994), Experiment Zero (1996), and A Spectrum of Infinite Scale (2000). They have also toured extensively, both in the United States and internationally, building a dedicated fan base around the world.
Despite their success, Man or Astro-man? remains a fiercely independent band, known for their DIY ethos and refusal to conform to mainstream trends. They have always stayed true to their roots, drawing inspiration from obscure surf rock bands of the 1960s, as well as from sci-fi movies, comic books, and other pop culture artifacts.
In addition to their music, Man or Astro-man? has also dabbled in other artistic pursuits, and Brian also played with The Polyphonic Spree. This, in and of itself, wasn’t enough to make him wanted by the FBI, but getting from Dallas back home to Birmingham proved to be, how shall we say this… easy for Brian but a bit, errr, problematic for the feds.
Man or Astro-man? remain one of the most original and influential bands in the alternative music scene… and a personal favorite of Geoff’s.
So happy to have had this conversation with Brian Teasley, we hope you enjoy it: