The Secondman's Middle Stand

Wattmiddlestand

The Secondman's Middle Stand is the third solo album by Mike Watt, released in 2004. The album is a concept album that chronicles Watt's near-death experience and recovery from a severe illness.

Background

In January 2000, Mike Watt was diagnosed with a severe infection that led to an abscess in his perineum. This life-threatening condition required emergency surgery and a long period of recovery. During his convalescence, Watt began to conceptualize and write the material that would eventually become The Secondman's Middle Stand.

Concept and Themes

The album is structured as a three-part narrative, reflecting Watt's journey through illness, surgery, and recovery. The three parts are:

• Hell - Representing the initial suffering and the severity of his condition.
• Purgatory - Depicting the surgery and the uncertain period of recovery.
• Heaven - Symbolizing his eventual recovery and return to health.

Track Listing

The album consists of nine tracks, divided into the three thematic sections:

1. "Boilin' Blazes" (Hell)
2. "Puked to High Heaven" (Hell)
3. "Burstedman" (Hell)
4. "Tied a Reed 'Round My Waist" (Purgatory)
5. "Pissbags and Tubing" (Purgatory)
6. "Beltsandedman" (Purgatory)
7. "The Angels Gate" (Heaven)
8. "Pluckin', Pedalin' and Paddlin'" (Heaven)
9. "Pelicanman" (Heaven)

Personnel

• Mike Watt - Bass guitar, vocals
• Pete Mazich - Organ
• Jerry Trebotic - Drums

Recording and Production

The album was recorded at Sage and Sound Recording in Hollywood, California. Watt produced the album himself, ensuring that the raw and personal nature of the material was preserved.

Reception

The Secondman's Middle Stand received positive reviews from critics, who praised its raw honesty and the powerful narrative of Watt's ordeal. The album is considered a significant work in Watt's discography, showcasing his resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.

Legacy

The album has been influential in the punk and alternative rock scenes, demonstrating the potential for deeply personal experiences to be translated into compelling music. It remains a testament to Mike Watt's enduring spirit and artistic vision.

See Also

• Mike Watt
• Punk rock
• Concept album