Combustible Edison

Combustible Edison was an American band formed in Providence, Rhode Island, in the early 1990s. Here are some facts about the group:

1. Genre and Style: Combustible Edison was known for their unique blend of lounge, exotica, and cocktail music, drawing inspiration from the lounge music of the 1950s and 1960s. Their sound incorporated elements of jazz, bossa nova, surf rock, and electronic music, creating a sophisticated and retro-futuristic aesthetic that evoked the ambiance of swanky cocktail lounges and stylish soirées.

2. Founding Members: The band was founded by Liz Cox (vocals), Michael Cudahy (guitar), and the late Peter Dixon (bass), who met while studying at the Rhode Island School of Design. Later, they were joined by Aaron Oppenheimer (drums) and Paul Beattie (percussion), completing the lineup. Each member brought a unique musical background and artistic sensibility to the group, contributing to Combustible Edison's distinctive sound and style.

3. Commercial Success and Critical Acclaim: Combustible Edison gained widespread attention and critical acclaim in the early 1990s with the release of their debut album, "I, Swinger", in 1994. The album received positive reviews for its stylish retro sound and innovative approach to lounge music. Combustible Edison's music was featured in films, television shows, and commercials, helping to popularize the revival of lounge culture in the 1990s.

4. Collaborations and Side Projects: Members of Combustible Edison were involved in various musical projects and collaborations outside of the band. Michael Cudahy, for example, composed music for film and television, while Liz Cox pursued a solo career as a singer-songwriter. Despite their individual pursuits, Combustible Edison's influence on the lounge music revival of the 1990s remained significant, inspiring a new generation of musicians and artists to explore the genre.

5. Legacy and Cultural Impact: Combustible Edison's music played a key role in popularizing the lounge music revival of the 1990s, influencing fashion, design, and popular culture. The band's stylish image and retro-futuristic sound captured the imagination of audiences around the world, sparking a renewed interest in lounge culture and cocktail aesthetics. While the band disbanded in the late 1990s, their legacy lives on through their recordings and continued influence on contemporary lounge and exotica artists.