Never Understand
| Company type | Record label |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1980s |
| Headquarters | United Kingdom |
| Products | Music recordings |
Never Understand serves as the debut single from the Scottish alternative rock group The Jesus and Mary Chain, featured on their initial album Psychocandy. Issued in February 1985, it marked the band's inaugural release under Blanco y Negro Records. The song, crafted by William Reid and Jim Reid, with production handled by the band members themselves, is distinguished by its pioneering incorporation of guitar feedback.
Chart performance
On the UK Singles Chart, the single attained a peak position of number 47.
Critical reception
In 1985, NME honored "Never Understand" as the top track in its "Tracks of the Year" list.
Spin characterized the guitar feedback as emitting "shriek[ing] like zealous adolescent screams." Meanwhile, critic John Leland acknowledged the striking nature of this effect but critiqued it for lacking complexity, contrasting it with the work of bands such as Hüsker Dü, who more effectively blend guitar elements with pop melodies.
Track listing
All compositions credited to Jim Reid and William Reid, except where otherwise indicated.
- 7" (NEG 8)
- "Never Understand" – 2:54
- "Suck" – 2:07
- 12" (NEG 8T)
- "Never Understand" – 2:54
- "Suck" – 2:07
- "Ambition" (Vic Godard) – 3:31
The Jesus and Mary Chain
- Jim Reid – vocals, production
- William Reid – guitar, production
- Douglas Hart – bass guitar, production
- Bobby Gillespie – drums, production